In a monumental announcement from the University of Louisville, Director of Athletics Josh Heird revealed on Thursday the appointment of Pat Kelsey as the new head coach of the men’s basketball program.
Kelsey, renowned for his adept program-building skills and an impressive career win rate of nearly 70%, will take the reins at UofL. His contract spans five years, extending through the 2028-29 season, with the University of Louisville Athletic Association Board of Directors approving the terms.
Expressing immense enthusiasm for Kelsey’s arrival, Heird emphasized the coach’s track record in elevating multiple programs to elite status. Highlighting Kelsey’s reputation as a coach, leader, and motivator, Heird emphasized the importance of building strong connections with student-athletes, coaches, and fans. Kelsey’s understanding of Louisville’s storied basketball legacy and his unwavering commitment to success align with the program’s expectations.
Kelsey brings a wealth of coaching experience spanning 12 seasons, including successful stints at College of Charleston and Winthrop. His coaching accolades include 11 conference championships and four NCAA Tournament appearances. Notably, Kelsey guided College of Charleston to a stellar 27-8 record this season, securing Colonial Athletic Conference regular season and tournament titles and earning a No. 13 seed in the NCAA Tournament.
As the 24th head coach in Louisville’s rich basketball history, Kelsey aims to rejuvenate the program’s legacy of excellence. His commitment to returning Louisville to national prominence resonates deeply, underscoring his profound reverence for the program’s heritage.
In the words of prominent figures in the basketball community, including NBA star Chris Paul, ESPN’s Jay Bilas, College of Charleston AD Matt Roberts, and basketball analyst Jeff Goodman, Kelsey’s appointment signals a new era of promise and potential for Louisville basketball. With his boundless energy, strategic acumen, and dedication to excellence, Kelsey is poised to lead Louisville back to the pinnacle of collegiate basketball.
Pat Kelsey Coaching Career
2024Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Head Coach, University of Louisville
2021-24Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Head Coach, College of Charleston
2012-21Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Head Coach, Winthrop University
2009-11Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Associate Head Coach, Xavier University
2004-09Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Assistant Coach, Wake Forest University
2001-04Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Director of Basketball Operations, Wake Forest University
1998-2001Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Assistant Coach, Elder (Ohio) High School
