Louisville Cardinals Men's Basketball

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the best Louisville basketball player?

The best Louisville basketball player is widely regarded as Darrell Griffith, also known as "Dr. Dunkenstein." Griffith led the Louisville Cardinals to their first-ever NCAA Championship in 1980 and was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Player. Over his collegiate career from 1976 to 1980, Griffith was a dynamic scorer and electrifying athlete, earning consensus All-American honors. He finished his Louisville career as the school's all-time leading scorer at the time, cementing his legacy as a program icon. After his college success, Griffith was selected second overall in the 1980 NBA Draft by the Utah Jazz, where he continued to impress with his high-flying dunks and scoring ability. His impact on Louisville basketball is still felt today, as he set a standard for excellence and inspired generations of Cardinals players and fans. His number 35 jersey is retired by the university in recognition of his legendary contributions.

Why does number 0 on Louisville wear a mask?

Number 0 on the Louisville Cardinals men's basketball team has been seen wearing a protective mask during games due to a facial injury. This type of mask is commonly used in basketball to protect players who have suffered a nasal fracture, cheekbone injury, or other facial trauma. The mask allows the athlete to participate in games while minimizing the risk of aggravating the injury or sustaining further damage. Wearing a face mask ensures that the player can maintain peak performance and contribute to the team without compromising safety. The decision for a player to wear a mask is typically made by the team's medical staff in consultation with the player, ensuring both effective healing and continued participation. Masks are custom-fitted and made from lightweight, durable materials to provide maximum protection with minimal interference. Fans often notice the distinctive look, but the mask is a testament to the player's toughness and commitment.

When did Louisville join ACC?

The Louisville Cardinals men's basketball program officially joined the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) on July 1, 2014. The move was part of a significant conference realignment in college athletics, where Louisville replaced the University of Maryland, which departed for the Big Ten Conference. Joining the ACC allowed Louisville to compete at a higher level in both basketball and other sports, facing off against storied programs like Duke, North Carolina, and Virginia. The transition to the ACC elevated Louisville's national profile, enhanced recruiting opportunities, and provided greater television exposure. Since joining, Louisville has remained a competitive force within the conference, participating in both regular season play and the annual ACC Tournament. Their inclusion in the ACC has solidified the Cardinals' status as one of the premier programs in college basketball, building on a tradition of success and a passionate fan base.

What numbers are retired in Louisville basketball?

The Louisville Cardinals men's basketball program has honored its most legendary players and contributors by retiring several jersey numbers. As of 2024, the numbers retired by Louisville basketball include the following: #8 (Charlie Tyra), #13 (Wes Unseld), #31 (Pervis Ellison), #35 (Darrell Griffith), and #42 (Peyton Siva). These players made significant impacts on the program, leading the Cardinals to NCAA Tournament success, national titles, and earning individual accolades such as All-American selections and professional careers. Retiring a jersey number is the highest recognition a player can receive from the university, symbolizing their lasting legacy and contributions to Louisville basketball. Fans can see these numbers displayed in the rafters of the KFC Yum! Center as a tribute to the program's storied history and the individuals who helped shape its identity on the national stage.

What is Louisville men's basketball ranked?

As of the most recent 2023-2024 college basketball season, the Louisville Cardinals men's basketball team is not ranked in the Associated Press (AP) Top 25 or the Coaches Poll. The program has experienced a transitional period, rebuilding under new leadership and working to regain its traditional national prominence. Although Louisville has a rich history, including multiple Final Four appearances and national championships, recent seasons have seen the team outside the national rankings due to roster changes and on-court struggles. The Cardinals continue to compete in the highly competitive Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), striving to return to ranked status through recruiting, player development, and a challenging schedule. Fans remain optimistic that with continued effort and improvement, Louisville will soon reclaim its spot among college basketball's elite and return to the national rankings in upcoming seasons.