3. Pat Kelsey still has a case for 'PGU'
Striking out on Kelsey and letting the dominant lead slip away is a crushing blow to the fans, but don't let this fool you on Kelsey and his ability to recruit. Kelsey brought this program back just months after earning the job and then led the team to 11 transfers in one offseason, resulting in the Cardinals' first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2019.
And, of course, he earned the commitment of 5-star Mikel Brown Jr. in January 2025, who is the second-highest rated commitment in program history, and a key piece of Louisville's 'PGU' claim. Kelsey then earned the commitments of 5-star Adrian Wooley, as well as 4-stars Isaac McKneely and Ryan Conwell, from this year's Transfer Portal.
Yes, striking out on Kinney hurts, and it isn't ideal, but Louisville still has a massive opportunity in the 2026 class and in next year's Transfer Portal. Kelsey might face criticism for his 'PGU' claim, but the reality is that he still has a case to claim 'PGU' if he can acquire an elite 2026 5-star point guard or an elite point guard from the Transfer Portal.
Related: 3 recruits Pat Kelsey and Louisville must land to prove their bold ‘PGU’ claim