5 encouraging observations from Louisville's big win over South Carolina State

Louisville absolutely dominates in its opening game of the 2025-2026 season, showing why the Cardinals' No. 11 ranking is no fluke.
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5. Mikel Brown Jr. is a nightmare for opposing teams

Mikel Brown Jr. showed once again tonight why many have his name high on NBA draft boards for next summer. The freshman phenom did absolutely everything tonight on both ends of the floor, from facilitating the offense with elite passing to being incredibly focused on ball defending. He was all over the court and made his presence felt all night. Louisville fans have plenty to be excited about for the possibilities that Brown gives Louisville, especially on the offensive end.

Brown finished the game with 11 points, three rebounds, and six assists, showing that he is the exact guy Pat Kelsey needs to run his offense. It will be hard to keep Brown off the floor with nights like these, showing that he is part of the recipe for Louisville’s best chance for success night in and night out.

He may be a freshman, and there will be some learning curves as the season progresses, but the 1st night was an immense success and a massive step in the right direction for the star of the backcourt.

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