The Louisville Cardinals men”s basketball season for 2025-26 concluded with a 77-69 loss against Michigan State in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Following the game, head coach Pat Kelsey and players Adrian Wooley and Ryan Conwell shared their thoughts on the defeat.
Coach Kelsey began by acknowledging Michigan State”s performance, stating, “I want to congratulate Michigan State. A really good team, as always. Every one of Coach Izzo”s teams, tough, physical, disciplined. They played a really good game tonight.” He expressed pride in his own team, reflecting on the emotional weight of the press conference. “These are the ones that you dread the most, especially talking to your team for the last time,” he said, noting the significance of the moment as it marked the end of their time together.
Kelsey mentioned the bond developed throughout the season and the challenges faced. “You go through so much together, you fight together, you enjoy triumphs together,” he added. He specifically praised Conwell, stating, “He”s just one of those guys that I”ll never coach another one like him.” Kelsey highlighted the disappointment felt by the players, especially those concluding their college careers.
When asked about his own career and this season, Conwell replied, “I just want to give all glory to God. I”m just blessed.” He reflected on his journey through various schools and experiences, expressing gratitude for his teammates and coaching staff. “It just hurts knowing we don”t have another game with my brothers,” he lamented, capturing the bittersweet nature of the moment.
Conwell also analyzed Michigan State”s defensive strategy, noting, “I feel like we really got some good looks, and the shots just didn”t fall down.” He emphasized their execution of the game plan despite the struggles with shooting.
Coach Kelsey was proud of his team”s effort, stating, “They left it all on the floor, and that”s all you can ask of them.” He acknowledged the physical toll of the tournament, pointing out how every team faces injuries at this stage. He emphasized the lack of moral victories for a program like Louisville but highlighted the team”s achievements, particularly their advancement in the tournament after several years.
Kelsey reflected on the renewed sense of unity within the team after tough losses earlier in the season. He commended the players for their resilience and tenacity, especially in competing against one of the best rebounding teams in the country. He noted the standout performance of Michigan State”s point guard, who contributed significantly to their success.
As the press conference concluded, Kelsey expressed a desire to focus on the emotional needs of his players, stating, “My whole mindset right now is on loving on these guys that are distraught.” He acknowledged the challenges of coaching and the sacrifices made by families, particularly his own, and concluded by looking forward to the future and the work needed to elevate the program.
