1. Kentucky Wildcats
It is no surprise that the Louisville Cardinals' biggest non-conference game right now is their showdown with their in-state rival, the Kentucky Wildcats. These two programs have massive expectations going into the 2025-26 season, as the Cardinals have the fifth-best odds to win the National Championship, and Kentucky has the eighth-best odds.
The Wildcats had an incredible offseason. Their class of 2025 and transfer additions rank No. 4 in the nation, and their composite ranking is No. 11, per 247Sports. Kentucky landed three players ranked in the top 35 in the class of 2025, all of whom are 4-star recruits. As for their transfer class, they added six transfers, including four 4-stars and one 5-star.
Related: Louisville basketball schedules Kentucky rivalry game on worst date imaginable
Louisville has its eyes set on a massive revenge game after the Cards fell to Kentucky last season. This game will be played on Nov. 11 at KFC Yum! Center.
For all the latest on Louisville basketball's offseason, stay tuned.