Louisville basketball recently received some more crushing news as the Cardinals' top target, Colben Landrew, committed to UConn over the Cardinals. Louisville was one of the programs that consistently recruited Landrew throughout the summer and early fall, but unfortunately, it didn't go as they had wanted.
The Cards have now struck out on multiple recruits in the 2026 class, but 5-star point guard and Kentucky native Taylen Kinney and Landrew Stings the most. The Cardinals made numerous visits to both recruits and did everything they could to earn their commitments, but they just fell short.
So, now Louisville must turn the page and try to find its next No. 1 target, and after yesterday, it is crystal clear who that is. Josh Irving is a 4-star center who ranks in the top 40 in the nation, and now that Louisville is in his final three, Kelsey has to do everything he can to get that first commitment.
Related: Louisville aims to land first 2026 commitment with crucial visit from elite prospect
Louisville's No. 1 target is clear after striking out on Colben Landrew
Yesterday was a tough day for Cardinals fans as they struck out on Landrew, but it was quickly followed by much-needed, exciting news: they learned they are still in the running in Irving's recruiting battle. Louisville is one of three teams still standing, and they are going up against Texas A&M and Kentucky.
Cardinals fans are all-in on Tyran Stokes, the No. 1 overall recruit in the nation, but unfortunately, it sounds like he is going to Kentucky. Whether that is true or not, the fans must consider Irving their top priority.
As of now, Louisville has yet to land a commitment from the 2026 class, and the Cardinals' inclusion in Irving's final three is their best chance of securing a commitment yet. The Cards struck out on Taylen Kinney in September, Landrew yesterday, and many other top 50 recruits along the way.
With Irving giving Louisville some much-needed good news, the Cardinals must go after their top target and hope he can be the first domino to fall their way. If Louisville lands Irving over Kentucky, that would be a significant recruiting advantage in persuading Stokes to join the Cardinals rather than Kentucky.
The Cardinals desperately need that first recruit to commit to Louisville, and Irving is now their top priority moving forward. There is no commitment date yet, but reports indicate it will be sooner rather than later.
Related: Predicting 3 elite recruits who will commit to the Louisville Cardinals this fall
For all the latest on Louisville basketball's offseason and recruiting, stay tuned.