3. Khani Rooths poised for a breakout sophomore season
One of the most impressive members of the team tonight has to be the emergence of Khani Rooths. The sophomore Rooths had a fantastic 1st showing, posting 20 points with seven rebounds. He added one steal and one block on the defensive end as well, playing with plenty of intensity and poise.
Many speculated whether fans would see a leap in play from Rooths entering the season, especially given his natural physique and the raw talent he showed in flashes last season. Rooths showed tonight that he can be a playmaker and a breakout star for the Cardinals in the “4” spot. His emergence will help give J’Vonne Hadley some additional assistance in the position, but will also take pressure off of Kasean Pryor once he can get back onto the floor for the Cardinals.
If Rooths can be a consistent, strong performer in this role, he could play his way into potential starting time and also create a path to a career past Louisville in the NBA. Rooths play in this game was an incredibly bright spot for Pat Kelsey and the Cardinals.