2012-13 College Basketball Preview #2 Louisville Cardinals

#2 Louisville Cardinals

RECAP

The Cardinals finished the season at 30-10(10-8) with a loss to the eventual national champion Kentucky in the final four.

KEY LOSSES

Kyle Kuric 12.6 Pts, 4.2 Reb, 1.2 Ast
Chris Smith 9.7 Pts, 3.6 Reb, 1.9 Ast

KEY RETURNERS

Peyton Siva 9.1 Pts, 3.2 Reb, 5.6 Ast
Gorgui Dieng 9.1 Pts, 9.1 Reb, 3.2 Blk
Russ Smith 11.5 Pts, 2.5 Reb, 1.9 Ast

NEWCOMERS

Terry Rozier PG 6’1″ 165lbs
Montrezl Harrell PF 6’8″ 215lbs
Luke Hancock(Transfer) 10.9 Pts, 4.2 Reb, 4.3 Ast(10-11 George Mason)

OVERALL

Louisville made it to the Final Four last season and they might be even better this year. Led by Siva, who in his 4th season seems to get better every season. Siva has no problem getting into the lane and if he continues to improve his outside shot he could be the player of the year in the Big East. Dieng is Probably the best returning shot blocker and each season gets a little better on offense. Smith was one of the best players off the bench last year and will be depended on for more this year. Last years freshmen Chane Behanan and Wayne Blackshear should be a lot better and both have star potential, especially Blackshear who will get a full season after missing most of last year. The Cardinals add another good freshmen class but the newcomer that will probably make the biggest splash is Hancock. Hancock is a versatile swing man who can shoot the 3, create off the dribble, and rebound the ball. This is one of Patino;s most talented teams and anything less than a championship will be a disappointment.

#3 North Carolina State Wolfpack