The Cardinals lost two players to the transfer portal: Koren Johnson and James Scott departed from Louisville and will now have a new home for the 2025-26 season.
Louisville basketball saw Johnson play in only two games last season, as the Washington transfer had a season-ending injury. He entered the portal after Louisville's massive offseason, and he is now committed to the Ole Miss Rebels.
As for Scott, he entered the portal in the final moments before the deadline as the 6-foot-11 forward decided to transfer after Kasean Pryor announced his return. Justin Hokanson reported that the Cardinals' starting center for the majority of last season is planning a visit to an SEC powerhouse, as Scott could be the missing piece.
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Scott was a transfer from Charleston who came to Louisville with Pat Kelsey. The forward played only one season with the Cardinals. In his lone season, he made an immediate impact. He started in 31 of Louisville's 35 games and averaged 7.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per game while shooting an astounding 75.5 percent from the field.
Scott now looks to take his talents to a new program, and the early frontrunner is the 2025 SEC regular-season champions, the Auburn Tigers. The former Cardinal is reportedly planning a visit to Auburn, as Scott would be a perfect addition to the Tigers' roster. Auburn lost some key players from last season, including Johni Broome and Chad Baker-Mazara.
Scott would be an excellent addition to the Tigers' roster. The 6-foot-11 forward was one of the best rim protectors and dunkers in the nation last season. He is also an elite lob threat, as he secured 79 dunks last season, which is the third most dunks in a single season in Cardinals history.
Kelsey supports Scott as he embarks his new journey as the Cardinals head coach gave the forward high-praise.
"I love that kid, love that young man, " Kelsey said, according to Michael McCammon. I'll support him. I'll be there for the rest of his life. You don't take things like that personal. He's going to do great, wherever he goes."
It is sad to see one of the Cardinals' fan favorites on the move, but it is great to see him getting looks from National Title-contending programs. The Cardinals now must find a replacement for Scott, as Louisville will likely have to turn to the transfer portal.
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For all the latest on Louisville basketball's offseason, stay tuned.