Louisville Basketball: Top 15 Players of the 2000’s: 7-4

#7- Luke Hancock (2012-2014)

Career Stats: 10.2 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 1 spg, 1.7 apg

There are probably not many people in the city of Louisville who have someone offer to buy them a drink more than Luke Hancock. And with good reason, too. We have been quick to point out that there is no scientific formula to this list, but what we do account for is impact. No player’s impact was felt more in such a small period of time than Hancock’s.

Luke actually transferred to Louisville after two successful seasons at George Mason. He sat out the 2012 final four season, and was seen as the heir apparent to Kyle Kuric at the 3 spot. Often times, people forget how rocky of a start he got off to, battling shoulder injuries early on in his junior season. But, a few (kind of important) games later, and that is all water under the bridge.

Hancock was just a guy who got it done when called upon. He was the exact opposite of flashy. But, when Louisville needed him most, he stepped up to the plate every single time.

Obviously, no time was more important than the 2013 final four game against Wichita State, and the National Championship game vs Michigan. Hancock went 11-15 from the field, had 42 points, and was named the Final Four’s Most Outstanding player.

Without the “four threes and a dunk” moment in the National Championship game, it is unlikely that Hancock would even make the list. But, that goes to show you all it takes is a few great moments to leave a lasting legacy.

Here’s some video of Hancock’s shooting prowess, in case you’ve never seen it. Or if you don’t ever want to have to drink coffee again:

Hancock went on to have a memorable senior season as well. He contributed in a similar fashion in 2014, often times coming off of the bench, but always clutch when it mattered most.