The Louisville Cardinals men’s basketball team has a long and storied history. From their first championship in 1980 to their most recent title in 2013, the Cardinals have consistently been one of the top teams in college basketball.
As such, they have produced some of the best and most memorable players in the sport’s history. From Darrell Griffith and Wes Unseld to Reece Gaines and Luke Hancock, the Louisville Cardinals have had no shortage of elite talent.
We will take a look at some of the best players to have ever worn a Louisville Cardinals uniform.
1. Wes Unseld
Westley Sissel Unseld Sr. was an American professional basketball player, coach, and executive. He was known for his dedication to the sport, having spent his entire National Basketball Association career with the Baltimore/Capital/Washington Bullets.
Unseld began playing professional basketball in 1968, and from then until 1981, he was a highly influential center for the Bullets. Not only was he a talented player, but Unseld was also a gifted coach and executive.
He served as head coach of the Bullets from 1988 to 1994 and was named the NBA coach of the year in 1988. Unseld also served as the team’s general manager from 1997 to 2003.
His commitment to the Bullets organization was unwavering, and he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1988. Unseld’s impact on the Bullets and the game of basketball will never be forgotten.
2. Darrell Griffith
Darrell Steven Griffith is a former basketball player who was known by his nickname, “Dr. Dunkenstein.” He was born in 1956 and is an American by nationality.
He had an illustrious professional career with the Utah Jazz of the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1980 to 1991.
He is best remembered for being an integral part of the Utah Jazz team that reached the playoffs in the 1983-84 season. Prior to joining the NBA, Griffith had a successful college career at the University of Louisville.
He was a standout player for the Cardinals and is still regarded as one of the best players to ever play for the university. In his senior year, he was awarded the John R.
Wooden Award for college player of the year and was also a consensus first-team All-American. Griffith’s professional career was marked by great success as he was one of the most prolific scorers in the NBA.
His best season came in the 1984-85 season when he averaged 22.6 points per game and was named to the All-Star team.
He retired from the NBA after the 1990-91 season, having accumulated a total of 16,212 career points. Griffith is still remembered fondly by the Utah Jazz and the University of Louisville.
In 2006, he was inducted into the University of Louisville’s Hall of Fame and his jersey number was retired by the Utah Jazz in 2018. He is an inspiration to many aspiring basketball players and a great example of how hard work and dedication can lead to success.
3. Butch Beard
Alfred “Butch” Beard Jr. is a prominent figure in the world of professional basketball. He was a point guard for the 1975 NBA champion Golden State Warriors, and he also served as a coach.
Butch Beard’s basketball career began in his home town of Louisville, Kentucky, where he was a standout player in high school. He was recruited to play college basketball at the University of Louisville, and he made an immediate impact on the team.
He was an important part of the Cardinals’ success, and he was named to the All-Conference team in both his sophomore and senior seasons.Butch Beard was then drafted by the Golden State Warriors in the 1975 NBA draft.
He quickly became a key contributor for the Warriors, and he was the starting point guard on the team that won the 1975 NBA Championship. His time with the Warriors was brief, as he was traded to the Atlanta Hawks in 1977.
Despite only spending two years in the NBA, Butch Beard left an indelible mark on the game. After his playing career ended, Butch Beard moved into coaching.
He was an assistant coach with the Denver Nuggets from 1983-1985, and he also held head coaching positions with the New Jersey Nets and the Philadelphia 76ers.
Though his teams never quite reached the heights of the 1975 Warriors, Butch Beard’s impact on the game of basketball is undeniable.
He was inducted into the University of Louisville Hall of Fame in 1997, and he remains an important figure in the history of professional basketball.
4. Pervis Ellison
Pervis Ellison is a well-known former National Basketball Association (NBA) player. He earned the nickname “Never Nervous Pervis” due to his impressive display of composure while playing for the University of Louisville.
He was an integral part of the Louisville team that went on to win a national championship. This impressive achievement marked him out as a top talent and led to him being the first overall pick in the 1989 NBA Draft.
Ellison was a highly successful player during his time in the NBA and is remembered fondly for his skill and determination. He is an example to aspiring basketballers of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.
5. DeJuan Wheat
DeJuan Shontez Wheat was a professional basketball player who was active in the NBA during the late 1990s and early 2000s. He played for two teams during his career: the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Vancouver Grizzlies.
He was known for his excellent shooting skills and ability to score points in a hurry. He also had the ability to read defenses well and could create his own shot when needed.Wheat was born in Chicago, Illinois, and attended college at the University of Louisville.
He was drafted in the second round of the 1995 NBA draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves and played for them for the next two seasons.
During his time in Minnesota, he averaged 7.4 points, 2.5 assists, and 1.6 rebounds per game. In 1997, Wheat was traded to the Vancouver Grizzlies, where he spent the next three seasons. During this time, he posted career highs in points, assists, and steals.
He was also a key contributor to the Grizzlies’ playoff run in 2000, where they reached the Western Conference Finals. Overall, DeJuan Shontez Wheat was a talented basketball player who had a great impact during his career.
He was a great shooter who could score in bunches and also had the ability to read defenses well and create shots for himself. His contributions to the Minnesota Timberwolves and Vancouver Grizzlies were significant, and he will be remembered fondly by both teams.
6. Terrence Williams
Terrence Deshon Williams is an outstanding former professional basketball player who had an impressive college career. He was a senior co-captain for the 2008-2009 University of Louisville Cardinals and was drafted 11th overall in the 2009 NBA draft by the New Jersey Nets.
Williams had a successful college career, where he was a two-time All-Big East selection and a two-time Big East All-Academic Team selection.
During his senior year, he was a key contributor for Louisville’s Elite Eight run and was named a unanimous First Team All-Big East selection. Williams’ professional career was successful as well, as he played for five different NBA teams.
He was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2010 and was named the NBA Cares Community Assist Award recipient in 2011. In addition to his NBA career, Williams also played professionally in China, Italy, and Russia.
Terrence Deshon Williams is an example of an athlete who has had a successful transition from college to professional basketball. His ability to excel both on and off the court is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
7. Peyton Siva
Peyton Robert Siva Jr. is an accomplished American professional basketball player. He has had a long and successful basketball career, starting from college level. He is best known for his time at Louisville, where he had a major impact on the team’s success.
Under his leadership, the Louisville Cardinals were able to reach two Final Fours, culminating in a national championship his senior season. After college, Siva went on to sign with the Illawarra Hawks of the National Basketball League, where he played until his retirement.
Throughout his career, Siva has been a leader on the court and has earned respect from his peers and coaches alike. He has been an inspiration to many young basketball players, showing them that hard work and determination can lead to great success.
8. Clifford Rozier
Clifford Glen Rozier was an impressive player in the world of basketball. He was an All-American college player for the Louisville Cardinals and even achieved the accolade of Florida Mr. Basketball.
This honor was given to him since he was one of the best basketball players in the state of Florida. Rozier was then able to take his talents to the National Basketball Association (NBA) and played four seasons for the professional league.
His basketball success did not end there, as he was able to make a name for himself in both college and professional basketball.
9. LaBradford Smith
LaBradford Corvey Smith is a former professional basketball player who enjoyed a successful professional career spanning more than a decade.
Born in 1971 in Detroit, Michigan, Smith attended college at the University of Michigan, where he played basketball for the Wolverines from 1989 to 1993.
He was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 1993 and went on to have a successful career in the NBA with the Warriors, the Philadelphia 76ers, the Washington Bullets (now the Wizards), the Denver Nuggets, and the Dallas Mavericks.
Smith was known for his tenacious defense and his ability to shoot from long range, as well as his ability to drive to the basket and score. He was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 1994 and also earned the NBA Sportsmanship Award in 1999.
After his retirement from professional basketball in 2004, Smith continued to stay involved in the sport, working as an analyst for ESPN and other networks.
He now works as a basketball analyst for BTN (Big Ten Network) and is also the Director of Player Development for the Detroit Pistons. Smith is a respected figure in the basketball world and is credited with helping to shape the careers of many of today’s NBA stars.
10. Reece Gaines
Clifton Reece Gaines is a former professional basketball player and coach with an impressive resume. He started his career as a player in the NBA and then moved on to become an assistant coach with the Austin Spurs.
During his time with the Spurs, he was able to help the team reach the playoffs. After his successful stint with the Spurs, he moved on to become a video coordinator for Louisville.
In this role, he is responsible for recording and reviewing practice and game footage to help the coaching staff develop strategies and improve the team’s performance.
He is a well-respected coach and player, and his experience and knowledge is invaluable to any team he is part of.
11. Rodney McCray
Rodney Earl McCray is an accomplished American former basketball player. Standing at 6’7″, he played the small forward position for 10 successful seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA).
Throughout his NBA career, McCray achieved an impressive total of 9,014 points and 5,087 rebounds. McCray’s basketball career started when he was drafted in the first round of the 1983 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls.
He went on to play for the Bulls for five seasons, during which he averaged a career-high 16.5 points per game. He was then traded to the Washington Bullets, where he played for two seasons.
Afterward, McCray played for the Dallas Mavericks, the Houston Rockets, and the Charlotte Hornets. In his 10 seasons in the NBA, McCray was a reliable contributor for the teams he played for.
He was a significant contributor on offense, averaging double-digit scoring in six of his 10 seasons and a career average of 11.4 points per game.
On defense, McCray was a formidable rebounder, averaging at least five rebounds per game in eight of his seasons and a career average of 5.1 rebounds per game.McCray’s impressive career numbers speak for themselves and demonstrate his status as one of the best small forwards in NBA history.
He was a consistent force on the court, helping to lead his teams to success. McCray’s career is a testament to the hard work and dedication that he put into basketball and is an inspiration for aspiring basketball players.
12. Russ Smith
Russ Antoin Smith is an impressive basketball player from the United States. He currently plays for Pallacanestro Nardò of Serie A2, the second-highest division in Italian basketball.
Smith has had an impressive career thus far, having played for multiple teams in the United States prior to joining Pallacanestro Nardò. He is a talented player with the ability to score, pass, and defend at a high level.
His skill and athleticism have allowed him to become a leader on his team, and he has made a name for himself in the Italian basketball scene. Smith is a great example of a hard-working player who has been able to achieve success in a foreign country.
He is a testament to the fact that hard work and dedication can take you to great heights, no matter where you come from.
13. Samaki Walker
Samaki Ijuma Walker is an accomplished American athlete who had a successful career in professional basketball. Walker attended the University of Louisville, where he played college basketball and developed the skills that would take him to the professional level.
In 1996, Walker was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks, a professional basketball team in the NBA. During his three-year tenure with the Mavericks, Walker established himself as a talented power forward and center.
He played with a relentless intensity and earned the respect of his teammates and opponents alike. After 1999, Walker decided to retire from professional basketball and pursue other opportunities. His legacy as an excellent basketball player remains to this day.
14. Francisco García
Francisco Alberto García Gutiérrez is a Dominican Republic native with a distinguished career as a professional basketball player. He played ten seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA), beginning in 1996 and concluding in 2006.
During his time in the NBA, García Gutiérrez was a part of several teams, including the Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, and Phoenix Suns.
He also played briefly in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) and the Dominican Republic’s National Professional Basketball League. García Gutiérrez was a highly-skilled power forward, with a solid all-around game and the ability to shoot from the perimeter.
He had a knack for rebounding the ball and was a great defender, often stepping in to take charges and create turnovers.
García Gutiérrez was a leader on the court, always providing his team with a steady presence on both ends of the court. Throughout his career, García Gutiérrez consistently put up impressive numbers, averaging double-digit points in seven of his ten NBA seasons.
He was also a fan favorite, with his energetic play and impressive dunks entertaining fans of all ages. After retiring from the NBA, García Gutiérrez moved back to the Dominican Republic and continues to be an ambassador for the sport he loves.
15. Felton Spencer
Felton LaFrance Spencer was a talented and well-known basketball player who had an impressive career in the National Basketball Association (NBA).
He played center for six different teams during his twelve-year career, which began in 1990 with the Minnesota Timberwolves and ended in 2002 with the New York Knicks.
During his time in Minnesota, Spencer was able to make a name for himself and solidify his place in the association. He was then traded to the Utah Jazz in 1992, where he continued to be a key player in the team’s success.
In 1995, he was traded once again, this time to the Orlando Magic. While with the Magic, Spencer was part of the team’s run to the NBA finals in 1995, where they unfortunately lost to the Houston Rockets.
In 1997, Spencer was traded to the Golden State Warriors where he was able to make an impact on the team and help them reach the playoffs.
Following his stint with the Warriors, Spencer was traded to the San Antonio Spurs, where he played for two seasons before finishing his career with the New York Knicks in 2002.Overall, Felton LaFrance Spencer was an incredible player who had a successful and memorable career in the NBA.
He was able to make a name for himself and become a household name in the basketball world. He left an undeniable mark on the game and will be remembered for his skill and dedication to the sport.
16. Scooter McCray
Carlton Lamont “Scooter” McCray is a former American professional basketball player who had a successful career in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1983 to 1987.
He first rose to prominence in 1978, when he was selected as the large-school player of the year by the New York State Sportswriters Association.
The award came as a result of his impressive senior season at Mount Vernon High School, where he showcased his exceptional abilities as a basketball player.McCray’s skill and talent were rewarded with the large-school player of the year award, and he went on to continue his impressive career in the NBA.
During his time in the NBA, he was an important member of several teams, including the Chicago Bulls, the New York Knicks, and the Washington Bullets.
He also had a successful playing career in the Continental Basketball Association, where he was a part of the All-Star team in 1988.McCray’s basketball career was a testament to his hard work and dedication to the game.
He was a great example of how hard work and dedication can lead to a successful career in professional sports.
17. Dwayne Morton
Dwayne Lamont Morton is a retired American professional basketball player.
Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, he showed immense promise as a basketball player from a young age. Morton was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 1994 and made his debut in the 1994-95 NBA season.
He played 41 games for the Warriors during this season and showed his ability as a player.
He made a solid contribution to the team during his time there, and he was well-respected by both his teammates and opponents. Unfortunately, Morton’s career was cut short due to an injury he sustained during the 1995-96 season.
Although he was able to return to the court the following year, he was never able to fully regain his form. He eventually retired from professional basketball in 1998. Despite his short-lived career, Dwayne Lamont Morton will be remembered for his skill and determination.
He was a great player who had the potential to achieve even greater things. He is an inspiration to many aspiring basketball players and remains a respected figure in the basketball world.
18. Milt Wagner
Milton Wagner Jr. is an accomplished basketball star who has achieved success both on and off the court. He was a standout player at the University of Louisville, where he played college basketball.
After college, he was drafted to the National Basketball Association (NBA), where he enjoyed a successful career. Following retirement from the NBA, Wagner moved into coaching, taking up assistant coach roles at UTEP Miners and the Auburn Tigers.
His wealth of experience and knowledge of the game has been invaluable to these teams, helping them to achieve success. Wagner has earned the respect of many in the basketball world, and he continues to be a positive influence in the sport.
19. Charlie Tyra
Charles E. Tyra was an iconic figure in the world of basketball. He was born in Kentucky and attended the University of Louisville, where he quickly became a star.
As a senior, Tyra led the Cardinals to their first NCAA tournament and was the first player from the school to be named an All-American. Following his collegiate career, he was drafted by the New York Knicks in the 1956 NBA draft.
He went on to play five seasons in the National Basketball Association, splitting his time between the Knicks and the Chicago Packers. Despite his short time in the league, Tyra was still able to make a lasting impact.
He was a great shooter, averaging over ten points per game for his career, and was known as a great team player. Tyra’s legacy lives on in Louisville, as the Cardinals still honor his accomplishments to this day.
20. Derek Smith
Derek Ervin Smith was an incredibly talented American professional basketball player. He had a successful collegiate career playing for the Louisville Cardinals. In 1980, Derek was part of the team that won the national championship.
It was a defining moment for the team and an incredible feat for Derek. After college, Derek moved on to play professionally in the National Basketball Association. He enjoyed a successful career, but it was unfortunately cut short due to an unfortunate knee injury.
Despite this, Derek still managed to spend nine years in the NBA. He was a talented athlete who could have achieved even more had it not been for the injury.
21. Billy Thompson
William Stansbury “Billy” Thompson is a former professional basketball player from the United States. During his career, he played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and other basketball leagues.
He spent five years with the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat and had a brief stint with the Golden State Warriors in late 1991, where he only played one minute. Thompson is best known for his time with the Lakers, where he was a valuable role player and defensive specialist.
He was a reliable contributor off the bench who could play both forward positions and guard. Thompson was a key contributor to the Lakers’ success in the late 1980s and early 1990s, helping the team reach the NBA Finals in 1991.
Thompson’s career came to an end after his brief stint with the Warriors. He retired after the 1991-1992 season and has not played professionally since. Despite the short duration of his NBA career, Thompson made a lasting impact in the basketball world.
He was known for his strong defensive abilities, and his contributions to the Lakers have been remembered fondly by fans and media.
22. Herbert Crook
Herbert Crook is an accomplished American basketball player who retired after a successful career. He was a prominent member of the University of Louisville’s basketball team during his college years, and his presence was key to the Cardinals’ 1986 national championship victory.
His individual talent was recognized in his junior year when he was awarded the Metro Conference Player of the Year title, which is a great honor. Crook was a leader on the court, and his performance and commitment to the game was acknowledged by both his peers and his coaches.
His presence was vital in the Cardinals’ success throughout his college career, and his individual accolades are a testament to his hard work and skill. He was an integral part of the team’s championship win in 1986, and his contributions were immensely valued.
Crook has since retired, but his legacy lives on in the University of Louisville basketball program. He was a major part of the team’s success and his accomplishments on the court have earned him the respect of many.
Herbert Crook was an amazing player and a true leader on the court, and his memory will continue to be cherished by those who had the pleasure of watching him play.
23. Junior Bridgeman
Ulysses Lee “Junior” Bridgeman is a prominent figure in the American business and sports world. He enjoyed a successful career in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1975 until 1987, during which time he played for the Milwaukee Bucks.
Following the end of his basketball career, Bridgeman focused his attention on the business world.
He has gone on to become a successful entrepreneur and is currently the owner of the iconic Ebony and Jet magazines. Bridgeman’s basketball career lasted 12 years and saw him establish himself as a powerful forward.
Throughout his time in the NBA, Bridgeman was known for his strong defense and reliable shooting. He helped the Bucks reach the playoffs in the 1976-77 season and was voted to the NBA All-Star team the following year.
Bridgeman also achieved success with the Los Angeles Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers during his time in the league. After retiring from the NBA, Bridgeman decided to pursue a career in the business world.
He is the owner of several restaurant franchises, including Chili’s, Wendy’s, and Fazoli’s. He also owns a Coca-Cola bottling plant and has a financial stake in the National Basketball Players Association.
Bridgeman’s most significant business venture is his ownership of Ebony and Jet magazines.
He purchased the iconic publications in 2016 and has become the first African-American owner of a major magazine in the United States. Overall, Ulysses Lee “Junior” Bridgeman’s career serves as an example of what is possible with hard work and dedication.
His success in the basketball world has been matched by his success in the business world, making him one of the most successful figures in American sports and business.
24. Greg Minor
Greg Machado Minor is a well-known figure in the basketball world. He is an American basketball coach and a former National Basketball Association (NBA) player, having spent five seasons with the Boston Celtics.
Born in Sandersville, Georgia, Minor began his basketball career at Washington County High School where he excelled and was noticed by recruiters.
After graduating, he enrolled at the University of Louisville to play for the Cardinals, and it was here that he continued to make a name for himself as a talented and reliable basketball player.
Minor was eventually recruited to the NBA where he spent five successful seasons with the Boston Celtics, before transitioning into coaching. Minor has since become a well-respected basketball coach and is an inspiration to many young basketball players.
25. Terry Rozier
Terry William Rozier III, better known as “Scary Terry,” is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the Charlotte Hornets of the National Basketball Association (NBA).
Before joining the NBA, Rozier played college basketball for the Louisville Cardinals, where he was a star player. His impressive college career earned him the 16th overall selection in the 2015 NBA draft by the Boston Celtics.
Since then, Rozier has developed into an important player for the Hornets, utilizing his athleticism and shooting ability to make an impact on the court.
He has also earned recognition for his style of play, being given the nickname “Scary Terry” due to his ability to make explosive plays. Rozier has proven to be a valuable asset to the Hornets and looks to continue to improve and help the team as they look to the future.
26. Montrezl Harrell
Montrezl Dashay Harrell is a basketball player who attended the University of Louisville. During his time with the Louisville Cardinals, he achieved great success and was rewarded with the Karl Malone Award as the country’s top power forward in 2015.
His success in college earned him recognition in the NBA, and in 2015 he was selected in the second round of the NBA draft by the Houston Rockets. Harrell has continued to make a name for himself in the NBA and is now considered one of the premier power forwards in the league.
He has earned All-Star selections and is a major contributor to the Rockets’ success. It is clear that Montrezl Dashay Harrell is a highly talented and successful basketball player who has achieved great things in his career.
27. Gorgui Dieng
Gorgui Sy Dieng is a talented athlete who has made a name for himself in the world of basketball. He is a professional basketball player from Senegal, and most recently was a member of the San Antonio Spurs in the National Basketball Association (NBA).
Before joining the NBA, Dieng played college basketball for the Louisville Cardinals. During his time at Louisville, he was named to the Big East All-Rookie team in 2012, in addition to earning Third Team All-Big East honors in 2013.
He was also a part of the Louisville team that won the 2013 NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Championship. Since joining the NBA, Dieng has had an impressive career.
He was named to the All-Rookie Second Team in 2014 and was also a member of the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2018. He has also been a key contributor to the Spurs team, with his defensive and rebounding abilities helping the team to numerous playoff appearances.
He is a reliable player that is capable of making big plays in clutch moments, and his presence has been a valuable asset for the Spurs.
28. Jordan Nwora
Jordan Ifeanyi Nwora is an exceptionally talented basketball player who has found success both domestically and internationally. He is a Nigerian-American and currently plays for the Indiana Pacers in the National Basketball Association (NBA).
Prior to joining the Pacers, Nwora played college basketball for the Louisville Cardinals. He has also represented Nigeria in international play, as part of the Nigeria men’s national basketball team.
Nwora has showcased his impressive skillset in both the NBA and the international stage. He is a great all-around player, and his ability to score, rebound, and pass the ball is highly respected.
He is particularly adept at shooting the ball from long distances, making him a valuable asset to any team. Nwora’s achievements are impressive, and he has become an inspiration to many young basketball players.
His journey from college basketball to the NBA and his success with the Nigeria men’s national basketball team demonstrates his unwavering dedication to the sport. Nwora is an outstanding athlete who is sure to make a lasting impact on the game of basketball.
29. Jim Price
James E. Price is a prominent figure in the world of professional basketball. He was born in the United States and has had a long and successful career as both a player and a coach. Throughout his playing career, Price was known for his aggressive, high-energy style of play.
He was a formidable scorer and a powerful rebounder, and he was highly respected by his teammates and opponents alike.
His skill and athleticism helped him become one of the best players in the league, and he was even selected as an All-Star several times. After his playing career ended, Price moved into the coaching ranks.
He was a highly successful coach, leading his teams to multiple championships and achieving success at the highest levels of the sport. Price was known for his strategic approach and his willingness to take risks in order to get the best out of his players.
He was also known for his ability to motivate and inspire his players, and for his attention to detail. Price’s legacy in basketball is undeniable. He was a talented and successful player, and he had a tremendous impact on the game as a coach.
His commitment to excellence and his passion for the game will be remembered by basketball fans for years to come.
30. Luke Hancock
Patrick Lucas Hancock is a former professional basketball player who had a promising career that ended prematurely. He began his college basketball career at George Mason University before transferring to the University of Louisville.
After his college career, he took his talents to the professional level and joined Panionios of the Greek Basket League. Unfortunately, his professional career was cut short due to an unfortunate injury where he tore a muscle in his calf.
This ended his professional basketball career, leaving him with six games played for Panionios.
31. Kenny Payne
Kenneth Victor Payne is an American basketball legend. He is currently the head coach of the University of Louisville’s men’s basketball team.
Before being appointed to this position, Payne had an impressive two-year stint as an assistant coach for the New York Knicks of the National Basketball Association. Payne has a long and distinguished career in the basketball world.
He started out as a player before moving onto coaching. At Louisville, Payne has been able to build on his previous successes and lead the team to success in recent years. He has been able to recruit talented players and build a culture of excellence.
He has also been able to provide the players with the necessary skills and motivation to become successful on the court. Payne has also worked hard to build relationships with the community, both on and off the court. Payne has been recognized for his work at Louisville.
He was named the Big East Coach of the Year in 2014, and he was also honored with the Naismith National Coach of the Year Award in 2015.
These awards demonstrate Payne’s ability to not only develop excellent players but also to lead and motivate them to reach their highest potential. Kenneth Victor Payne is an exceptional coach and is a great asset to Louisville’s men’s basketball program.
32. Earl Clark
Earl Rashad Clark is a professional basketball player who currently plays for the Gigantes de Carolina, a team in the Baloncesto Superior Nacional (BSN). Before joining the BSN, Clark played college basketball at the University of Louisville, where he had a successful career.
His college success led to him being drafted 14th overall by the Phoenix Suns in the 2009 NBA draft. Since then, he has gone on to play for various teams in both the US and Puerto Rico, including the Gigantes de Carolina.
He is known for his defensive prowess and is a highly respected player in the basketball world.
33. Lancaster Gordon
Lancaster Gordon is a retired professional basketball player who had a successful career in the NBA. He was selected by the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round of the 1984 NBA draft, which was a great accomplishment.
After being drafted, Gordon played in the NBA for 11 seasons, during which he earned multiple awards and accolades. He was a member of the All-Rookie Team in 1985 and was selected to the All-Star Team in 1990.
His career averages were 11.9 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game. Gordon also played in the playoffs five times, making it to the Western Conference Finals in 1993.
After retiring in 1995, Gordon was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2020, which was a fitting end to a successful career.
34. Kyle Kuric
Kyle Matthew Kuric is an exceptional athlete with a unique background. He is a professional basketball player from the United States, who currently plays for the Zenit Saint Petersburg of the VTB United League. He was born in Slovakia but grew up in Evansville, Indiana.
He graduated from Memorial High School in 2008, where he played basketball for all four years. During his high school years, Kuric was an accomplished player, helping lead the team to the state championship in his senior year.
After graduating, he continued to pursue his basketball career, eventually landing the opportunity to play professionally. Now, Kuric is a successful athlete, playing for the Zenit Saint Petersburg team in the VTB United League.
He is a great example of someone who followed their dreams and worked hard to achieve success.
35. Mike Grosso
Michael James Grosso is a former professional basketball player who played in the United States. He was born in New York City and is of Italian-American heritage. He attended New York City’s St. John’s University and played on the college’s basketball team for four years.
During his college career, Grosso was an All-American guard and was named Big East Player of the Year in 1992. After college, Grosso was drafted by the Toronto Raptors in the second round of the 1992 NBA Draft.
He spent two seasons with the Raptors before being traded to the Phoenix Suns in 1994. After spending one season with the Suns, Grosso signed as a free agent with the Los Angeles Lakers in 1995. He spent three seasons with the Lakers, playing in a total of 85 games.
He then moved to the Vancouver Grizzlies in 1998, where he spent one season before retiring from the NBA. Grosso is remembered for his hardworking attitude and his tenacious defense. He was also an excellent shooter and was a key contributor to his teams on the court.
He was a fan favorite with both the Raptors and Lakers, and his hard work and dedication to the game are still remembered fondly by his former teammates.
36. Jerry Eaves
Jerry Lee Eaves is a prominent figure in college basketball. He currently serves as the head coach and athletic director of Simmons College of Kentucky in Louisville.
Prior to this, he held the position of head coach of the men’s basketball team at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
During his tenure at North Carolina A&T, he was able to lead the team to some successful seasons and was widely respected by his players. Eaves has a long history of success as a college basketball coach.
He began his coaching career as an assistant at Indiana University, where he helped guide the Hoosiers to an NCAA Final Four appearance.
After that, he moved on to become the head coach of the University of Akron, where he achieved a winning record and led his team to the NCAA tournament three times.
His next stop was North Carolina A&T, where he was the head coach for three seasons and earned several conference and NCAA tournament appearances. Eaves has developed a reputation as one of the top college basketball coaches in the country.
He is known for his ability to develop young talent, and his teams have consistently been competitive. He also has a strong track record of developing relationships with his players and providing them with the opportunity to reach their potential.
His commitment to the growth and development of his players has earned him a great deal of respect from those in the basketball community. Jerry Lee Eaves is a highly respected and accomplished college basketball coach.
His career accomplishments, combined with his commitment to player development, make him an excellent choice to lead Simmons College of Kentucky into the future.
37. Jack Coleman
Jack Lillard Coleman was an influential figure in the world of professional basketball. He was born in Louisville, KY in 1927 and attended the University of Louisville, where he was a standout basketball player.
After college, Coleman joined the National Basketball Association and played for the Rochester Royals and St. Louis Hawks between 1949 and 1957. During his time in the NBA, Coleman contributed to the success of both teams and was known for his defensive prowess.
He was also known for his ability to score, leading the league in free throws made for the 1951-52 season. Coleman was inducted into the Kentucky Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987 and is remembered as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
38. Bud Olsen
Enoch Eli “Bud” Olsen III was an American professional basketball player who hailed from the University of Louisville. He was a tall 6’8″ center and was selected by the Cincinnati Royals in the second round of the 1962 NBA draft.
Olsen was an integral part of the Louisville Cardinals basketball team during his college years and was a key player in the team’s success. He was known for his offensive and defensive skills, as well as his athleticism.
After being selected by the Cincinnati Royals in the 1962 NBA draft, Olsen went on to have a successful career in the National Basketball Association. He played for the Royals for four seasons, averaging 9.2 points and 7.8 rebounds per game.
Olsen was known as a valuable asset to the team, with his defensive abilities helping the team to win many games. He was also an effective rebounder and shot blocker, and his presence in the paint helped the Royals secure a number of victories.
Olsen retired from professional basketball in 1966 and went on to pursue a career in sports radio. He was well-known in the Greater Cincinnati area and was a popular figure in the community.
Olsen was an important part of the basketball history of the University of Louisville, the Cincinnati Royals, and the National Basketball Association. He will be remembered for his outstanding contributions to the game of basketball.
39. Taqwa Pinero
Taqwa Pinero is an American professional basketball player who has played for many teams throughout his career. He is currently playing for Élan Béarnais Pau-Lacq-Orthez, a team in the LNB Pro A, the top professional division of the French basketball league.
Pinero began his professional basketball career in 2006 when he joined the team of the NBA Development League, the Dakota Wizards.
After this, he continued to play for a few other teams in the NBA D-League, such as the Fort Wayne Mad Ants and the Iowa Energy, before finally joining Élan Béarnais Pau-Lacq-Orthez in 2016. Pinero has had a successful career, showing a great deal of talent and skill while playing in the NBA D-League and LNB Pro A.
He is known for his exceptional ball-handling ability, as well as his remarkable defensive skills. He is also known for his ability to score from the three-point line with great accuracy.
Throughout his career, Pinero has consistently shown a desire to improve and develop his abilities, always striving to become a better player. Pinero is a versatile player who can play both guard and forward positions.
He is also known for his leadership skills, as he often takes it upon himself to lead the team and motivate his teammates. He is a great asset to any team he plays on, and his presence will surely be missed when he finally decides to hang up his jersey.
40. Phil Bond
Phillip Damone Bond is a retired American basketball player who hails from Paducah, Kentucky. He attended Manual High School in Louisville, graduating third out of 312 students in 1972. After finishing high school, he went on to play basketball for the University of Louisville.
Bond enjoyed a successful college career, and eventually retired from professional basketball. Despite his retirement, Bond is remembered fondly by the Louisville community for his accomplishments both on and off the court.
He remains a shining example of what hard work and dedication can achieve.
41. Denny Crum
Denzel Edwin Crum was a highly respected American men’s college basketball coach who spent 30 years of his life at the University of Louisville. From 1971 to 2001, he was the head coach of the Louisville Cardinals basketball team and led them to an impressive 675-295 record.
Under his guidance, the Cardinals achieved two NCAA championships and six Final Fours, making him one of the most successful college basketball coaches in the country.
During his time at Louisville, Crum helped develop the careers of many notable players, such as Darrell Griffith, Derek Smith, and Pervis Ellison.
Crum was also known for his innovative strategies and intense focus on defense, which helped the Cardinals become one of the most feared teams in the NCAA.
His legacy at Louisville has been remembered fondly by fans and players alike, and his contributions to college basketball have been widely praised.
42. Don Goldstein
Donald Goldstein, nicknamed “Red” due to his signature red hair, was a renowned American college basketball player. He was an All-American, a title given to the top college players in the country, and a Pan American Games champion.
During his college career, he was known for his speed and agility on the court, as well as his leadership skills. He was also known for his ability to make his teammates better, as he was a natural leader and was always looking out for his team.
He was a great defender and was known for his tenacity and ability to shut down opposing players. He was a dominant force on the court and was an integral part of the success of his team. He was a true champion and an inspirational figure to many.
43. Wesley Cox
Wesley Cox was a professional basketball player for the Golden State Warriors during the 1970s. He was drafted with the eighteenth pick in the 1977 NBA Draft, and went on to play two seasons in the NBA.
During his time in the league, he was a reliable contributor to the Warriors, averaging 4.6 points per game and 2.8 rebounds per game. He was not known as a prolific scorer, but his presence in the paint was important for the team’s success.
He was a consistent presence on the court, and his ability to find open spaces and grab rebounds helped the team in many key situations. Wesley Cox was a valuable member of the Golden State Warriors, and his contributions should not be overlooked.
44. Chuck Noble
Charles E. Noble was an American professional basketball player who had an impressive career in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Standing at 6’4″, Noble played the shooting guard position and was highly regarded for his skills.
He began his career at the University of Louisville, where he honed his basketball abilities. After college, Noble was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 1958. He spent seven seasons with the Pistons, making an impressive mark on the franchise.
During his time in the NBA, Noble averaged 8.0 points per game and was even selected to the 1960 NBA All-Star Game. This was a testament to his skill and his ability to remain consistent on the court. Noble’s career ended in 1965, but his legacy lives on.
He is remembered as one of the best players to ever don the Detroit Pistons jersey, and his impact on the game of basketball will never be forgotten.
45. Jerry Smith
Jerry Smith is a professional basketball player who currently plays for Al-Arabi SC of the Qatari Basketball League. He is an American player, hailing from the United States and has been playing basketball for several years.
Smith’s move to Al-Arabi SC was in 2018 and since then he has become an integral member of the team. He is known for his impressive shooting ability and is often seen taking the last second shot for his team.
Smith has also been praised for his defensive skills and is always willing to go the extra mile to help his team win. He has been a key contributor to the team’s success and his presence has been a major plus for Al-Arabi SC.
46. Wayne Blackshear
Wayne Fitzgerald Blackshear is an American professional basketball player who is currently playing for the Maine Celtics of the NBA G League. Blackshear began his professional basketball career in 2015 after playing college basketball for the Louisville Cardinals.
He was a star player for the Cardinals, helping lead the team to the NCAA tournament during his junior and senior seasons. Blackshear was named to the All-ACC Third Team and the All-ACC Tournament Team as a senior.
After his college career ended he was signed by the Maine Celtics. He has been with the team ever since and has become a key contributor to their success. Blackshear has a combination of size, strength, and skill that makes him a valuable asset on the court.
His ability to shoot from beyond the arc and finish at the rim make him a difficult player to defend against. He also has the ability to create his own shot in the halfcourt which makes him a valuable scoring threat.
Blackshear is a hard worker who has the potential to be a great player in the NBA G League.
47. Alvin Sims
Alvin Sims is a retired professional basketball player. He played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for the Phoenix Suns during the 1998-99 season. During his stint with the Suns, he made significant contributions to the team.
He was known for his shooting ability and strong defense. His time with the Suns was short-lived, however, as he left the team after the season. Since then, he has not returned to the NBA, but he is remembered fondly by Suns fans for his contributions.
Sims’ legacy in the NBA is one of a hardworking and dedicated player who gave his all for the teams he played for.
48. Ron Thomas
Ron Morton Thomas was an American basketball player who had a successful career both at the college and professional level in the United States. He was born in Louisville, Kentucky and attended Thomas Jefferson High School there, from which he graduated.
His college career then took him to the University of Louisville, where he played basketball for the Cardinals. Thomas was an impressive player, with the ability to play both inside and outside the paint and was known for his aggressive defense.
He was an important piece of the Louisville team and was a key contributor in the Cardinals’ success.
After graduating from the University of Louisville, Thomas went on to play professionally in the NBA, where he played for the San Antonio Spurs, the Detroit Pistons and the New Jersey Nets.
His time in the NBA was marked by a strong work ethic and high level of play, which saw him earn many accolades throughout his professional career.
Conclusion
The Louisville Cardinals men’s basketball team has had a long and successful history of elite players. From Darrell Griffith and Pervis Ellison to Terry Rozier and Donovan Mitchell, the Cardinals have had some of the best players in college basketball.
This legacy of success is sure to continue into the future, and the Cardinals are sure to produce more outstanding players in the years to come.
