Surprising Turnaround for Louisville Basketball
One of the most unexpected elements of Louisville’s remarkable turnaround in the 2024-25 season is linked not to the main players contributing to the success, but rather to Kasean Pryor, who was not part of the team’s 19-win improvement.
Kasean Pryor’s Promising Start
Prior to the season, Kasean Pryor, one of the last additions among 15 newcomers to the program, was arguably the most talked-about player on Pat Kelsey’s inaugural Cardinal roster. The 6’10” forward, who played his initial college basketball seasons at Boise State and then at Northwest Florida junior college, had a standout year with the 2023-24 South Florida team, which recorded a 16-2 conference record and claimed the regular season title in the American Athletic Conference.
Impressive Stats and Rising Popularity
Pryor demonstrated a diverse skill set on both offense and defense, averaging 13 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.8 assists, while leading his team with 23 blocks. As a versatile scorer, he successfully made 37 of 105 attempts from three-point range (35.2%). He showcased his talent by achieving double-doubles in ten AAC games, including an 18-point, 15-rebound performance in a close game against UAB.
Transition to the Transfer Portal
This impressive performance propelled Pryor from relative obscurity to one of the most coveted players in the transfer portal. Ultimately, he secured a lucrative deal in the seven-figure range from Louisville. Following strong showings in exhibition games in The Bahamas, excitement around Pryor’s debut in a power conference grew, with many basketball pundits predicting he would be a First Team All-ACC player and the leading scorer for the Cardinals.
Injury Strikes at a Crucial Moment
Just as things seemed to be aligning perfectly, fate intervened during Louisville’s Battle 4 Atlantis game against Oklahoma. A collision with Oklahoma’s star guard resulted in Pryor tearing his ACL, leading to his season-ending injury. At that point, he ranked seventh in offensive efficiency in the ACC, as noted by Ken Pomeroy.
A Leadership Role Despite Injury
Coach Kelsey acknowledged Pryor’s impact off the court, emphasizing that his energy and leadership qualities would still be felt throughout the season. True to form, Pryor became a constant source of encouragement for his teammates during an impressive 18-2 ACC campaign, culminating in an appearance in the ACC championship and the program’s first NCAA Tournament since 2019.
Return and Future Outlook
As the season concluded, questions arose about Pryor’s future with the team. Kelsey had enhanced the roster significantly, which led to uncertainties regarding Pryor’s role in a now-crowded lineup. Ultimately, Pryor chose to stay and pursue a national championship with the Cardinals, announcing his return on April 22. He expressed deep gratitude for the support he received during his injury, stating that Louisville had become almost a second home to him.
Looking Ahead to the Season
Despite the uncertainties surrounding his recovery and position within the team, Pryor is committed to being ready for the season opener and is particularly focused on the pivotal game against Kentucky. “I will be ready first game of the season,” he affirmed, ensuring fans he’s set to contribute from the very start.
