The University of Louisville men’s basketball program and head coach Pat Kelsey announced Tuesday the signing of transfer J’Vonne Hadley to the 2024-25 roster.
Hadley’s Journey and Skills
The 6-foot-6 guard, who has one year of eligibility remaining, played the last two seasons at Colorado, following a year each at Indian Hills Community College and Northeastern.
“J’Vonne is as reliable as any player in this year’s portal class,” said Kelsey. “He’s a dogged defender whose overall game has developed at a remarkable pace over his career. J’Vonne possesses a tireless work ethic. He was a cornerstone on a team that advanced in the NCAA tournament and played almost every minute of those three tournament games. He’s a grown man that comes to The Ville with a chip on his shoulder and a hunger to win.”
Performance at Colorado
Known as a lockdown defender, Hadley started in all 36 games he appeared in for Colorado during the 2023-24 season. He averaged 11.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.2 steals per game.
The St. Paul, Minn., native shot 53.8% from the field and 83.9% from the free-throw line. He also made 20 of 48 from the 3-point line (41.7%). His efforts helped Colorado to a 26-11 record and NCAA Tournament wins over Boise State and Florida. Hadley recorded four double-doubles and a season-high 24 points against Washington on Jan. 24.
Hadley averaged 8.0 points and 5.9 rebounds as a junior for the Buffaloes but appeared in just 22 games with 19 starts due to a hand injury.
Early Career
Hadley arrived at Colorado from Indian Hills Community College, where he was named an NJCAA Division I First Team All-American in 2021-22. He averaged 10.9 points and 6.2 rebounds while shooting 54.8% from the field. Hadley and the Warriors won the NJCAA Region XI regular season and tournament titles, and he was selected as the Iowa Community College Athletic Conference Player of the Year.
Hadley appeared in 13 total games as a true freshman at Northeastern.
High School Achievements
During his prep career at Cretin Derham-Hall and Mahtomedi high schools, Hadley won four conference championships, two sectional titles, and made two state appearances. He also earned three letters and all-conference honors in football as a wide receiver.
Looking Ahead
J’Vonne Hadley’s addition brings defensive tenacity and a seasoned presence to Louisville’s roster. With his demonstrated work ethic and diverse skill set, he is expected to make an immediate impact for the Cardinals.
