The University of Louisville men’s basketball team is set to travel to Lexington for a highly anticipated matchup against in-state rival Kentucky on Saturday, December 14.
Game Details
The exact tip-off time and television broadcast details for the game are yet to be determined.
Series History
The Cardinals currently trail in the all-time series against the Wildcats, with Kentucky leading 39-17. This storied rivalry dates back decades, with annual meetings between the two teams since 1983, except for the 2021-22 season when the game was canceled due to COVID-related issues. Before 1983, the teams had not faced each other in regular season play for 62 years.
New Era for Both Programs
This upcoming game holds additional significance as both head coaches, Pat Kelsey for Louisville and Mark Pope for Kentucky, are entering their first season at their respective schools. The 2024-25 season marks the first time since 1930-31 that both Louisville and Kentucky have new head coaches simultaneously. Remarkably, this matchup will be the first since the 1915-16 season where both schools have featured new head coaches simultaneously.
Non-Conference Slate
Louisville’s schedule also includes matchups against three other SEC opponents as part of their non-conference schedule. The Cardinals will host Tennessee on November 9 and Ole Miss on December 3, with the latter being part of the prestigious 2024 SEC/ACC Challenge. Additionally, there is a potential for Louisville to face a fourth SEC opponent, Oklahoma, in the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament. The Cardinals currently hold a competitive 93-82 record against current SEC teams.
Looking Ahead
As the Cardinals prepare to face their arch-rivals, the matchup against Kentucky adds to the excitement of the upcoming basketball season. With new leadership at the helm of both programs and a rich history of intense competition, fans can expect a thrilling contest between Louisville and Kentucky, showcasing the best of college basketball in the Bluegrass State.
