2. Interior defense struggles need improvement
Although there were many positives from the Cardinals’ performances through the first two games, one glaring negative has to be the play of the interior defense. Louisville's frontcourt appeared to struggle against the physical nature of Kansas’s big men, with possession after possession ending in points around the rim or lobs from driving guards to their wide-open big men. This is sure to be number one on Pat Kelsey’s list of items to work on as the season gets underway.
Sananda Fru and Senior Aly Khalifa, who returns after sitting out last season due to injury, will need to shore up that end of the court for the Cardinals, especially on off-shooting nights. Fru, in particular, will be viewed as an absolute force in the middle due to his frame and the abilities he has demonstrated overseas in Germany. His play is likely to continue improving as he becomes more comfortable with the differences in college basketball. The defense of returning starter J’Vonne Hadley, as well as Kasean Pryor (once he also returns from injury), will be welcome additions to assist with providing a stronger presence on the interior for the Cardinals.