4. Can Louisville bounce back from 3-point line struggles?
Entering the 2025-26 season, the fans have massive expectations for Louisville's ability to shoot the 3-ball. The Cardinals lived and died by the 3-point line last season, and it was a major area they needed to improve this offseason. Well, Kelsey went out and got three elite shooters who shot 40 percent or higher and made 70 3-pointers or more a season ago, along with a 5-star point guard who won the McDonald's All-American 3-point contest.
In Louisville's debut, they shot an underwhelming 28.9 percent from downtown against Kansas, and the fans raised an eyebrow. Mikel Brown Jr. went just 2-10 from beyond the arc, while Ryan Conwell went 3-12. Isaac McKneely wasn't much better as the Virginia transfer went 2-7, while the whole team shot 11-38.
This team can shoot teams out of the gym, and their Kansas performance doesn't lower fans' expectations. But what is essential for this team is to take good shots and be smart with their shot selections. This team has elite 3-point shooters, and everyone has an off night, but in this final exhibition game, it will be something to watch how this team performs from beyond the arc.