Louisville Athletics Weekly Rundown: Big Wins, Bigger Moves, and a Program on the Rise
As we roll into December, Louisville athletics is making noise across the board-from the hardwood to the gridiron to the pool. Let’s break down what’s happening across the Cardinal landscape, and why this week feels like a turning point in several programs.
Men’s Hoops Holding Their Ground in the Rankings
Louisville men’s basketball continues to cement its status among the nation’s elite, holding strong at No. 6 in both major human polls. The NET rankings also reflect that strength, with the Cards sitting at No.
- It’s a solid foundation heading into a critical stretch of the season, and with a marquee matchup against Arkansas on the horizon, we’ll get a clearer picture of just how battle-tested this group really is.
Boykins Steps Up in the Governor’s Cup Blowout
Saturday’s 41-0 rout of Kentucky wasn’t just a statement win-it was a showcase of depth, adaptability, and unselfishness. Few players embodied that better than Shaun Boykins.
A redshirt sophomore who came in as a wide receiver, Boykins made the switch to running back during fall camp. With Louisville’s top three backs-Isaac Brown, Duke Watson, and Keyjuan Brown-sidelined, Boykins and freshman walk-on Braxton Jennings stepped into the spotlight. And Boykins didn’t just fill a role-he seized the moment.
“Shaun was a unique guy,” said head coach Jeff Brohm after the game. “It just wasn’t happening as fast as we’d like [at receiver], but he had a unique skill set.
So we tried him at running back. And to his credit, he’s unselfish.
He moved. He’s worked hard.”
That work paid off in a big way. Boykins not only handled the physicality of the position but also picked up the protections, routes, and schemes that come with it-no small task for a mid-season position change.
“I felt like it was a good opportunity to show what I had to do,” Boykins said. “It was totally different, but I was willing to step up to the challenge.”
His performance was a testament to the culture Brohm is building-one where versatility and team-first mentality are rewarded.
Mark Stoops Out at Kentucky
In a stunning move, Kentucky has officially parted ways with head coach Mark Stoops, a decision that comes with a hefty $37.7 million buyout-one of the top five largest in college football history. Saturday’s lopsided loss to Louisville may have been the final straw in what’s been a tough season for the Wildcats.
Louisville Football’s Bowl Picture Taking Shape
With the regular season in the books, Louisville’s bowl projections are starting to come into focus. While nothing is official yet, the Cards are in prime position for a high-profile postseason matchup. The final destination will depend on how things shake out across the conference championship games, but one thing’s clear-this team has earned a spotlight.
Volleyball Tournament Action Returns to L&N Arena
The NCAA Tournament is back in town. Louisville volleyball is set to host Loyola University Chicago in the opening round at L&N Federal Credit Union Arena. The Cards are looking to make another deep run, and with home-court advantage to start, they’ve got a strong shot to build momentum early.
Also worth noting: Amirra Bailey, a Louisville volleyball commit, is already turning heads. The future looks bright for Dani Busboom Kelly’s squad.
Busy Week Ahead in Cardinal Athletics
Here’s what’s on deck for Louisville sports this week:
Wednesday, Dec. 3
- Swim/Dive at Toyota U.S. Open (Austin, TX)
- Men’s Basketball at Arkansas - 7:15 p.m. ET
Thursday, Dec. 4
- Swim/Dive continues in Austin
- Women’s Basketball vs.
South Carolina - 7:00 p.m. ET at the KFC Yum!
Center
Friday, Dec. 5
- Swim/Dive continues
- Volleyball vs.
Loyola Chicago - 30 minutes after Match 1 at L&N Arena
Saturday, Dec. 6
- Swim/Dive continues
- Track & Field at Commonwealth College Opener (Louisville)
- Track & Field at Sharon Colyear-Danville Season Opener (Boston)
- Men’s Basketball vs.
Indiana - 2:15 p.m. ET in Indianapolis
Sunday, Dec. 7
- Swim/Dive at USA Diving Winter Nationals
- Women’s Basketball vs.
New Hampshire - Noon ET at the KFC Yum! Center
Recruiting Update: DB Devonte Anderson Flips to Rutgers
Louisville lost a 2026 commit this weekend, as defensive back Devonte Anderson flipped to Rutgers. It’s a minor setback, but with the early signing period approaching, there’s still time for the Cards to reload.
Transfer Watch: Ivy League Player of the Year Eyes Louisville
Louisville is among the schools expected to receive a visit from Princeton transfer Caden Pierce, the reigning Ivy League Player of the Year. The 6’7” forward brings versatility and a high basketball IQ-exactly the kind of player who could thrive in Louisville’s system. This is one to watch closely.
Stripe Out Thursday + Ticket Deals for South Carolina Game
The KFC Yum! Center will be rocking this Thursday for the women’s basketball showdown against South Carolina-and it’s a Stripe Out night.
Fans are encouraged to wear alternating red and white to create a striped effect throughout the arena. Discounted tickets are also available for a limited time.
If you’re in town, this is a can’t-miss matchup.
Other Notables Around the Program
- Shaun Boykins’ emergence wasn’t just about stats-it was about setting a tone. His willingness to adapt and contribute wherever needed is a blueprint for what Louisville football is becoming under Brohm.
- Miller Moss closed out the 2025 regular season on a high note, proud of the resilience shown by him and his teammates down the stretch.
- The annual athletic audit shows the financial balancing act Louisville is navigating. It’s a reminder that every win matters-on the field and in the books.
- Monique Reid’s return to the Yum Center on Sunday was a tough one, as the Cards handed her a rough welcome back.
- Scott Satterfield’s struggles continue at Cincinnati. Despite his optimism, the 1-11 record in November games at UC is a tough stat to ignore.
And Finally…
The Mike Rutherford Show is back on the air this afternoon to celebrate the beatdown of Kentucky. Tune in from 2:30-5:30 on 1450 AM / 96.1 FM or catch the stream on YouTube.
Louisville is surging across multiple sports, and the energy around the program is palpable. Whether it’s a breakout performance from a position-switching running back, a top-10 basketball ranking, or a volleyball team gearing up for another tournament run, there’s no shortage of reasons to keep your eyes on the Cards.