2. Kelsey managed to bring five key players back
It is essential to discuss who Louisville brought in from the transfer portal, but it is also nearly as essential to discuss who the Cardinals convinced to return.
Entering the offseason, the glaring question for Louisville basketball fans was whether J'Vonne Hadley and Kasean Pryor would return. It was reported that the Cardinals were expected to spend up to $10 million this offseason, and some were assuming that meant Kelsey would lose some valuable players from last season.
However, one thing the Cardinals' nation has learned is never to doubt Kelsey's magic, as he was able to return both key players for next year, resulting in one of the deepest rosters in the country. While they lost a key starter from last season in James Scott, Kasean Pryor and Aly Khalifa are returning, and Sananda Fru, a 6-foot-11 transfer from Germany, is joining the team.
Kelsey was also able to retain former 4-star Khani Rooths. This is massive for Louisville, as he is an elite player who is not only expected to take a big jump this season but is also the future starting small forward for the Cardinals down the line. After a few Cardinals graduate, the true freshman is expected to be a massive piece for Kelsey's future Cardinals.
Kelsey getting Pryor, Hadley, Rooths, Rodgers, and Khalifa to return is a glaring reason this team is poised for a National Championship run. So, while it is sad to see Scott and Koren Johnson leave, it is crucial to remember how massive it is that Kelsey brought back these five elite players who will all have an impact next season.
Related: Way-too-early starting five projection for the Louisville Cardinals 2025-26 season