Louisville basketball once again saw its big three step up and lead the Cardinals to their fourth victory, as the Cards defeated Ohio 106-81. Mikel Brown Jr. and Ryan Conwell once again led Louisville in scoring as Conwell finished with 22 points on 50 percent shooting, and Brown Jr. finished with 19 points on 45 percent shooting.
However, it was Isaac McKneely who garnered a lot of attention from yesterday's game, as he not only proved to be a dominant shooter but also showcased his skills on the defensive side and in the paint. McKneely's aggressiveness on defense, while being able to score 15 points, including four 3-pointers, while shooting 45 percent from the field, is what stood out.
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Isaac McKneely unleashes new side of his game in Louisville's win
The Cardinals added three players from the Transfer Portal, but it has been clear that the fans were most excited for the Virginia transfer. McKneely was last season's best ACC 3-point shooter after splashing 101 3's while shooting 42.1 percent. Louisville fans couldn't wait to see a player with his shooting skills in Kelsey's system, and yesterday's win proved McKneely is much more than just a shooter.
"It is very important, that is one of the reasons I came here," McKneely stated, emphasizing his capabilities to be more than just a shooter. "I knew playing in PK's system, like you said, you can't just sit out there and shoot threes. He wants all of his guards and even his five-man to touch the paint and to make plays. So, that's what I have been working on all offseason, and trying to show it in the games now."
The 4-star transfer got things going for the Cardinals as he splashed back-to-back 3-pointers to get Louisville out for a 6-2 lead. He ended the game with four 3-pointers while shooting 40 percent from the field, but it was his tough finish at the rim over the Bobcats forward that drew everyone's attention.
McKneely displayed his ability to be aggressive on both ends of the floor last night, as he attacked the rim on one end, hustled back on defense, and showcased his athleticism with chase-down blocks on the other end. The sharpshooter finished with six rebounds and one block and was one of the most impactful players on the court.
What can we say, the squad loved seeing @IsaacMcKneely in the paint? 🤷♂️#GoCards pic.twitter.com/kTpU8IdRB1
— Louisville Men's Basketball (@LouisvilleMBB) November 16, 2025
The nation knows about McKneely and his ability to splash it from beyond the arc, but yesterday, he gave a glimpse of what else fans can expect as the season progresses. He plays hard on every play, dives to the floor, and makes his presence known on the defensive side.
This Cardinals offense is going to be lethal this season, and McKneely unleashing new parts of his game is exactly what Louisville fans wanted to see this season.
