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The Starting Five02 crew goes live to dissect every inch of Louisville’s heavyweight clash against the Kansas Jayhawks. We dive straight into the film room to break down the critical positional matchups, defensive schemes, and pace battles that will decide who controls this game. From setting realistic floor-and-ceiling expectations to exposing tactical advantages and dropping our official score predictions, this is your ultimate pregame roadmap. Fire up the live chat, drop your questions, and tell us who you’ve got walking out with the win. Presented by Alumni Hall - the premier destination for officially licensed Louisville gear. Starting Five02 is powered by Alumni Hall. Use promo code **SOL1912** for 10% off your order online at alumnihall.com or in store at 4600 Shelbyville Road. Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Falls City Beer  Alumni Hall Ellis and Badenhausen Parlour Pizza Parkside Realty Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Kern's Korner Main Event Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Is Boyuan Zhang Louisville's secret weapon? Jalen Paul of Hoop English Corner joins Ryan Keeling and Alan Thomas on Starting 502 to break down Zhang’s game and what he could bring to Pat Kelsey’s Cardinals. We discuss his shooting confidence, playmaking, three-level scoring, and the defensive work that could help him earn minutes. Plus, Jalen shares the perspective of Chinese fans following Boyuan’s journey and explains how Hoop English Corner connects basketball, English, and Louisville’s growing international following. Follow Jalen Paul on Instagram: @hoopenglishcorner YouTube Episode: https://youtu.be/dmwhJZjliw0 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thestateoflou 🔴 Subscribe to State of Louisville for more Louisville basketball coverage and Starting Five02. Starting Five02 is powered by Alumni Hall. Use promo code **SOL1912** for 10% off your order online at alumnihall.com or in store at 4600 Shelbyville Road. Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Falls City Beer  Alumni Hall Ellis and Badenhausen Parlour Pizza Parkside Realty Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Kern's Korner Main Event Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The NCAA called Pat Kelsey to the stand. They might have picked the wrong guy. With the entire Louisville basketball team watching from a packed courtroom, Pat Kelsey testified in the ongoing eligibility battle involving Seth Trimble and LJ Wells. And with the season just around the corner, the timing couldn't have been more dramatic. Ryan Keeling and Alan Thomas take a break from the Starting Five02 Player Preview series to unpack a wild couple of weeks in Louisville basketball. We dive into Kelsey's courtroom testimony, the NCAA's increasingly aggressive legal battles, and a bigger question: **How much is the NCAA spending to fight college athletes in court, and who is ultimately footing the bill?** Plus, there's plenty of actual basketball to discuss: - ACC Media Day takeaways and Pat Kelsey's approach to preparing this team for March - Louisville's preseason ACC ranking and expectations for the conference - Flory Bidunga and Jackson Shelstad earning preseason All-ACC honors - Karter Knox's confidence heading into the Kentucky rivalry - The latest developments on the recruiting trail - What we're looking forward to as Louisville prepares to take the floor against Kansas The season hasn't even started, and Pat Kelsey has already given Louisville fans a moment they won't soon forget. **End the chaos. Let them play.** StartingFive02 is now presented by Alumni Hall!  StartingFive02 is powered by Alumni Hall. Use promo code **SOL1912** for 10% off your order online at https://www.alumnihall.com/ or in store at 4600 Shelbyville Road. Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://www.instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Falls City Beer Alumni Hall Ellis and Badenhausen Parlour Pizza Parkside Realty Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Kern's Korner Main Event Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

For the first time in our 2026–27 Louisville Basketball Player Profiles series, we're breaking down a player with the player himself joining us. Louisville guard Will Hanke joins Jacob Lane, Alan Thomas, and Ryan Keeling for one of our favorite Starting Five02 conversations yet. A lifelong Louisville fan and one of just two returning players on Pat Kelsey's roster, Hanke offers a unique perspective on the program, the locker room, and what makes this year's team special. We discuss: - Will's role in rebuilding the roster, including his perfect 9-for-9 record at recruiting dinners - Why Pat Kelsey called him the "connector of all connectors" - The relationships and chemistry developing behind the scenes - What John Andrzejek is bringing to Louisville's defensive identity - Why offensive rebounding and defensive field goal percentage were priorities in roster construction - Will's development, leadership, and hopes of earning more minutes - His Behind the Grind podcast and ambitions in sports media - What it means to represent Louisville as someone who grew up cheering for the Cardinals Plus, homemade cookies, Deshayne Montgomery's dunking habits, and plenty of laughs along the way. Huge thanks to Will @The_BTG_Podcast for joining us and giving Louisville fans a look behind the curtain. **Starting Five02 | Player Profiles | Episode 07** Full YouTube Episode: https://youtu.be/nbZhEoidyQk YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thestateoflou StartingFive02 is now presented by Alumni Hall!  StartingFive02 is powered by Alumni Hall. Use promo code **SOL1912** for 10% off your order online at https://www.alumnihall.com/ or in store at 4600 Shelbyville Road. Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://www.instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Alumni Hall Ellis and Badenhausen Parlour Pizza Parkside Realty Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Kern's Korner Main Event Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Is Alvaro Folgueiras the most underrated player on Louisville's 2026–27 roster? On this episode of Starting Five02, Presented by Alumni Hall, hosts Jacob Lane, Alan Thomas, and Ryan Keeling break down the Iowa transfer and what he brings to Pat Kelsey's Louisville Cardinals. After helping Iowa make a memorable NCAA Tournament run, including a game-winning shot against Florida, Folgueiras arrives at Louisville with an intriguing combination of size, shooting, passing, and versatility. Could the 6'10" Spaniard be the piece that takes Louisville's ceiling to another level? We discuss: - Why Folgueiras might be the ideal stretch four for Pat Kelsey's system - How his passing and floor spacing could unlock Flory Bidunga - Whether playing power forward will help his defensive limitations - The importance of consistent minutes and an expanded offensive role - Why Folgueiras could be Louisville's biggest wild card this season StartingFive02 is now presented by Alumni Hall!  StartingFive02 is powered by Alumni Hall. Use promo code **SOL1912** for 10% off your order online at https://www.alumnihall.com/ or in store at 4600 Shelbyville Road. Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://www.instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Alumni Hall Ellis and Badenhausen Parlour Pizza Parkside Realty Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Kern's Korner Main Event Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Is Flory Bidunga the best big man in the ACC? And could he be Louisville's best center since Gorgui Dieng? Mike Rutherford of Card Chronicle joins Starting Five02 for Episode 5 of our 2026–27 Louisville Basketball Player Profiles series, breaking down one of the most exciting additions of the Pat Kelsey era. The former Kansas standout and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year arrives in Louisville with enormous expectations. After two seasons of questions surrounding physicality, rebounding, and rim protection, Pat Kelsey may have finally found the missing piece. Ryan Keeling, Jacob Lane, Alan Thomas, and Mike Rutherford discuss: - Why landing Bidunga was such a massive statement for Louisville basketball - What makes Flory one of the most versatile defensive big men in the country - How his athleticism, rebounding, and offensive efficiency could transform Pat Kelsey's system - Whether he's already the best center in the ACC - His potential to earn All-American honors and compete for ACC Player of the Year - Why Bidunga could be the player who takes Louisville from good back to great Plus, Mike shares a fascinating behind-the-scenes story about how Louisville's pursuit of Bidunga began — and why getting the Cardinals back into the national spotlight in March means so much to this program. **Is Flory Bidunga the missing piece for a Final Four run?** Let us know what you think in the comments. Subscribe to Starting Five02 for more Louisville basketball coverage, player previews, and conversations with some of the biggest voices around the program. StartingFive02 is now presented by Alumni Hall!  StartingFive02 is powered by Alumni Hall. Use promo code **SOL1912** for 10% off your order online at https://www.alumnihall.com/ or in store at 4600 Shelbyville Road. Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://www.instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Alumni Hall Ellis and Badenhausen Parlour Pizza Parkside Realty MyBookie  Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Kern's Korner Main Event Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

De'Shayne Montgomery might be the ultimate luxury guard on Pat Kelsey’s roster this season. In Episode 04 of the Starting Five02 Podcast (presented by Alumni Hall) 2026–27 Louisville Basketball Player Preview series, Ryan Keeling and Jacob Lane break down what Montgomery brings to the Cardinals, why his defensive disruption could make him one of the most important players in the rotation, and whether an improved offensive game could unlock another level. We discuss Montgomery’s elite steal numbers, his ability to create offense through defense, his explosiveness around the rim, the importance of his three-point shooting, his 20-point performance in the Bahamas, and how his role could change depending on Seth Trimble’s availability. Plus: why Montgomery might be Louisville’s “Chief Chaos Officer” — and the kind of player opposing guards are going to hate seeing check into the game. Full YouTube Episode: https://youtu.be/B9BBify9fRU StartingFive02 is now presented by Alumni Hall!  StartingFive02 is powered by Alumni Hall. Use promo code **SOL1912** for 10% off your order online at https://www.alumnihall.com/ or in store at 4600 Shelbyville Road. Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://www.instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Alumni Hall Ellis and Badenhausen Parlour Pizza Parkside Realty MyBookie  Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Kern's Korner Main Event Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Starting Five02 Podcast Player Preview Series (presented by Alumni Hall) rolls on with Karter Knox — one of the most intriguing players on Louisville's roster and perhaps the biggest X-factor of Pat Kelsey's third season. Ryan Keeling and Alan Thomas break down what makes the former five-star wing such a unique weapon, his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor, and how Pat Kelsey may have never coached a player quite like him. They also dive into the biggest question surrounding Knox: with NBA-level size, athleticism and shooting ability, what has kept him from reaching the next level — and can a year in Pat Kelsey's system unlock it? Plus: expectations coming off last season's meniscus injury, where Knox fits in Louisville's loaded rotation, his defensive upside, areas he still needs to develop as a creator, and a bold prediction for his first season as a Cardinal. Full YouTube Episode: https://youtu.be/kB485i7Sqec #louisville #louisvillebasketball #uofl #uoflbasketball #gocards #L1C4 #patkelsey #karterknox #arkansas #recruiting #mcdonaldsallamerican #transferportal #jacksonshelstad #adrianwooley #florybidunga #deshaynemontgomery #sethtrimble #acc #accbasketball #accbasketball2026 #accbasketball2027 StartingFive02 is now presented by Alumni Hall!  StartingFive02 is powered by Alumni Hall. Use promo code **SOL1912** for 10% off your order online at https://www.alumnihall.com/ or in store at 4600 Shelbyville Road. Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://www.instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Alumni Hall Ellis and Badenhausen Parlour Pizza Parkside Realty MyBookie  Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Kern's Korner Main Event Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Could Adrian Wooley be Louisville's leading scorer this season? We're back with Episode 2 of our Starting Five02, presented by Alumni Hall, Player Profiles series, and this time we're breaking down Louisville's most important returning player. Ryan Keeling, Jacob Lane, and Alan Thomas dive into Adrian Wooley's late-season breakout, his development as a combo guard, and why this year's roster might be perfectly constructed to unlock another level of his game. Is Wooley being overlooked in all the excitement surrounding Louisville's new additions? Do you think he can lead Louisville in scoring this year? Let us know! - Why Wooley's numbers improved dramatically down the stretch last season - Whether he's more valuable as a scorer or primary ball handler - How Jackson Shelstad and Flory Bidunga could elevate his offensive production - The battle for minutes with Seth Trimble - Wooley's NBA potential and what he needs to improve - Our bold predictions for his 2026–27 season StartingFive02 is now presented by Alumni Hall!  StartingFive02 is powered by Alumni Hall. Use promo code **SOL1912** for 10% off your order online at https://www.alumnihall.com/ or in store at 4600 Shelbyville Road. Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://www.instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Alumni Hall Ellis and Badenhausen Parlour Pizza Parkside Realty MyBookie  Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Kern's Korner Main Event Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to the Starting Five02 Player Preview Series presented by Alumni Hall! Jacob Lane, Alan Thomas, and Ryan Keeling are breaking down every player on Louisville's 2026-2027 basketball roster, starting with the man expected to run the show: Jackson Shelstad. The former Oregon point guard arrives in Louisville with three years of experience, a knack for the big moment, and an evolving offensive game. But with Flory Bidunga, Adrian Wooley, Seth Trimble, and a loaded supporting cast around him, what should his role actually look like? Is Shelstad Louisville's next leading scorer? Or is his greatest value unlocking everyone else? Jacob, Ryan, and Alan break down the numbers, the tape, and what Shelstad brings to the Cardinals, including: - His evolution as a playmaker and what the advanced stats tell us - His ability to score at all three levels and take over late in games - The potential of a Shelstad–Bidunga partnership - How his game translates to Pat Kelsey's offense - Defensive questions and his fit in John Andrzejek's system - Our predictions for his first season in Louisville Plus, we debate whether Shelstad can deliver the kind of impact Louisville has enjoyed from its recent point guards — and whether the Torvik projections are selling him short. 🔴 Subscribe to State of Louisville for more Louisville basketball coverage and Starting Five02 StartingFive02 is now presented by Alumni Hall!  StartingFive02 is powered by Alumni Hall. Use promo code **SOL1912** for 10% off your order online at https://www.alumnihall.com/ or in store at 4600 Shelbyville Road. Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://www.instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Alumni Hall Ellis and Badenhausen Parlour Pizza Parkside Realty MyBookie Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Kern's Korner Main Event Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Louisville basketball is STILL adding to the roster in September. Ryan and Alan break down the addition of Northern Kentucky transfer LJ Wells, what the veteran 6'8" forward brings to Pat Kelsey's roster, and why his rebounding, experience and versatility could make him a valuable depth piece for the Cards. Then, there's some serious buzz building around Obinna Ekezie Jr. After missing much of the summer while working his way back from injury, the reclassified freshman big man is back on the floor — and he's already turning heads in practice. How big of a role could Ekezie play this season? And if he's ahead of schedule, how does Pat Kelsey find minutes in an increasingly crowded Louisville frontcourt? Plus: • Why offensive rebounding could become a major part of Louisville's identity • Pat Kelsey's history developing and utilizing athletic bigs • What the latest practice footage tells us about this roster • PK rallies Card Nation ahead of Louisville–SMU • Why the buzz around Louisville athletics continues to grow StartingFive02 is now presented by Alumni Hall!  StartingFive02 is powered by Alumni Hall. Use promo code **SOL1912** for 10% off your order online at https://www.alumnihall.com/ or in store at 4600 Shelbyville Road. Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://www.instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Alumni Hall Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Kern's Korner Main Event Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Louisville basketball's 2026-27 schedule is officially set — and the Starting Five02 crew breaks down the biggest games, toughest stretches and what the path could look like for Pat Kelsey's Cardinals this season. Then we're putting on our GM hats. You have $15 to build the best possible starting five from the Pat Kelsey era at Louisville. Flory Bidunga, Mikel Brown Jr., Ryan Conwell and Chucky Hepburn headline the $5 tier, with plenty of steals — and controversy - farther down the board. Jacob and Alan build their teams, debate the best values on the board and try to construct the perfect five for $15. StartingFive02 is now presented by Alumni Hall!  StartingFive02 is powered by Alumni Hall. Use promo code **SOL1912** for 10% off your order online at https://www.alumnihall.com/ or in store at 4600 Shelbyville Road. Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://www.instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Alumni Hall Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Kern's Korner Main Event Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

National basketball reporter of On3 Joe Tipton joins StartingFive02 Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about Seth Trimble, Louisville’s recruiting future and the new financial reality reshaping college basketball. Joe explains why Trimble would make a major difference for Pat Kelsey’s roster, evaluates Louisville’s incoming freshmen and provides the latest on several of the program’s top 2027 recruiting targets including #4 Demarcus Henry, #6 Reese Alston, #12 Darius Wabbington, and COMMIT Ferlandes Wright. StartingFive02 is now presented by Alumni Hall! StartingFive02 is powered by Alumni Hall. Use promo code **SOL1912** for 10% off your order online at https://www.alumnihall.com/ or in store at 4600 Shelbyville Road. Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://www.instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Alumni Hall Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Kern's Korner Main Event Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Seth Trimble saga isn't over — and Louisville's roster suddenly looks a lot different. Jacob Lane and Alan Thomas break down the latest twists in Trimble's eligibility battle and debate just how important he is to Louisville's championship ceiling. Is Trimble simply the final piece of an already-loaded roster, or do the Cards NEED him to make a legitimate run at a national title? Plus, London Johnson is officially no longer with the program. What does his departure mean for Louisville's suddenly thin backcourt, and should Pat Kelsey look to add another guard before the season? The guys also look ahead to 2027 recruiting, where Louisville has made the final seven for five-star point guard Reese Alston — the son of AND1 legend Rafer "Skip 2 My Lou" Alston. On this episode: The latest on Seth Trimble's eligibility How worried should Louisville fans actually be? Does Louisville need Trimble to win a national championship? What London Johnson's departure means for the roster Should Pat Kelsey add another guard? Louisville's pursuit of five-star Reese Alston Subscribe to State of Louisville for more Louisville basketball coverage and Starting 502. Starting 502 is powered by Alumni Hall. Use promo code **SOL1912** for 10% off your order online at https://www.alumnihall.com/ or in store at 4600 Shelbyville Road. Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://www.instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Alumni Hall Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Kern's Korner Main Event Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

StartingFive02 Podcast presented by Alumni Hall, welcomes Greg Waddell, co-owner of Sleepers Media, for a deep dive into just how high the expectations should be for Pat Kelsey and Louisville basketball in 2026-27. Greg has been one of Louisville's biggest believers nationally this offseason — and after the additions of Jackson Shelstad, Flory Bidunga, Seth Trimble and company, he believes the Cardinals have assembled one of the most talented rosters in college basketball. Ryan, Alan and Greg discuss why this Louisville roster is different from Pat Kelsey's first two teams, whether the Cardinals have enough to compete for a national championship, the importance of finally breaking through against elite competition, and why Duke could provide the ultimate measuring stick.Plus, the guys break down Louisville's loaded schedule, what it would take to earn a No. 1 or No. 2 seed, the Players Era tournament, Kentucky, Texas, Michigan, the ACC race, and much more. StartingFive02 is powered by Alumni Hall. Visit their new Louisville location at 4600 Shelbyville Road or shop online at AlumniHall.com for Louisville Cardinals gear. Subscribe to the State of Louisville YouTube channel and follow @TheStateofLou across social media. Follow Greg Waddell and Sleepers Media for year-round college basketball coverage. https://x.com/gwizzy12 https://www.youtube.com/@sleepersmedia https://x.com/SleepersMedia https://www.instagram.com/sleepersmedia Stay Connected: https://stateoflouisville.com https://tiktok.com/@stateoflouisville https://www.instagram.com/thestateoflouisville https://x.com/thestateoflou https://x.com/PinkSeatsPod https://x.com/startingfive02/ https://.facebook.com/StateOfLouisville Support The State of Louisville by supporting our partners!  Alumni Hall Cryo Lounge The Gridiron C.R.I.B. NFL Flag Football Ellis & Badenhausen Kern's Korner Main Event Surfside Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is your home for comprehensive coverage of the state of our city, its hometown teams, and its unique culture. Louisville sports culture is deeply woven into what makes this city special, where a pro city feel meets a college town vibe. Delivering the best in Louisville sports, news, and everything in between, we bring unique coverage to an uncompromising city. In a city where fans are passionate and diverse, yet united as a tight-knit community, we’re committed to providing coverage that cuts to the core of what makes Louisville unique. Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or just stopping by, The State of Louisville is for anyone who appreciates the city’s rich history and fervent sports culture. Tune in to stay connected to the pulse of the city and all things 502! The State of Louisville is the home of 3 original podcasts covering University of Louisville sports and beyond: From The Pink Seats (Louisville Football Coverage) Starting Five02 (Louisville Basketball Coverage) It's 5:02 Somewhere (Louisville Interviews) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy