Apr 8, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Louisville Cardinals guard Peyton Siva hoists the national championship trophy after defeating the Michigan Wolverines in the championship game in the 2013 NCAA mens Final Four at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
Basketball season doesn’t officially start until November but there is still plenty of Louisville basketball news. After winning the 2013 NCAA Championship in April, the Cards return everyone except Peyton Siva, Gorgui Dieng, and Zach Price. It was reported today that Price would transfer to another school. The Cards return seven players who either started or contributed to Louisville’s NCAA Championship run. Here is a look at their stats from last season:
"Russ Smith4030.318.73.32.92.10.12.7.414.804.328Chane Behanan3926.19.86.51.11.40.41.6.507.547.083Luke Hancock4022.48.12.61.41.00.11.0.429.761.399Wayne Blackshear3920.17.63.10.60.90.30.6.423.694.324Montrezl Harrell4016.25.73.60.20.50.70.6.577.508.000Kevin Ware3716.64.51.80.81.10.11.1.447.667.405Stephan Van Treese3711.21.73.10.20.50.30.4.650.706.000"
In addition to the seven key returnees, the Cards also bring in a top 10 recruiting class led by Chris Jones and Terry Rozier. The other signees are Anton Gill, Akoy Agau, and Mangok Mathiang, who redshirted last season. Louisville is going to be deep again for the 2013-2014 season and experience will be a factor as well. Barring any injuries the Cards could find themselves participating in the final four for the third straight year and possibly repeat as National Champions in 2014.