URGENT UPDATE: Louisville star guard Mikel Brown Jr. will NOT play against No. 6 Duke on Tuesday due to a lingering lower-back injury, confirmed head coach Pat Kelsey during the ACC coaches’ media call on Monday. This news comes as a setback for the Cardinals, who are currently 11-3 this season and have struggled without their leading scorer.
Kelsey stated, “He’s rehabbing hard; he’s trying to,” after the team’s recent loss to Stanford. The coach noted that they had increased Brown’s activity in practice but encountered a setback, leaving fans hopeful for a speedy recovery. Brown has been a vital player for Louisville, averaging 16.6 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 5.1 assists over ten games this season.
Without Brown, the Cardinals have gone 2-2, struggling to maintain momentum. Adrian Wooley, a transfer from Kennesaw State, has stepped up in Brown’s absence, averaging 12.3 points in four starts. The team now faces a formidable schedule, hosting Duke, Boston College, and No. 21 Virginia in the coming days.
Brown, a five-star recruit and ranked No. 5 in ESPN’s NBA draft rankings, made headlines early in the season with standout performances, including 29 points against Kentucky and 22 points versus Cincinnati. The absence of such a key player raises concerns about Louisville’s ability to compete against top-tier teams.
As the match against Duke approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Louisville can rally and maintain their position in the rankings. Coach Kelsey’s comments highlight the urgency of Brown’s recovery, making his return crucial for the Cardinals’ hopes this season.
Stay tuned for more updates on Brown’s rehabilitation and Louisville’s upcoming games, as this developing story unfolds.
