If you’re a fan of fundamental basketball, Louisville's box score from their 83-79 NCAA Tournament win over USF might have you cringing a bit. Despite the victory, which marked Louisville's first tournament win since Rick Pitino's last year in 2017, head coach Pat Kelsey has some cleanup work to do, especially in the turnover department.
The absence of starting point guard Mikel Brown Jr. was felt as Louisville racked up 22 turnovers-more than any other game this season. Brown, sidelined since late February due to injury, is a crucial part of the Cardinals' lineup. The last time Louisville turned the ball over this much was back in December 2022 against Florida A&M.
Looking ahead, Louisville faces the winner of Michigan State and North Dakota State. Michigan State, favored heavily over the Bison, poses a different challenge.
While the Spartans don't force turnovers at the same rate as USF, they capitalize on those they do create. With Jeremy Fears Jr. leading the country in assists and Coen Carr electrifying in transition, Michigan State is adept at turning mistakes into points, averaging 12.9 points off turnovers per game.
Brown, despite leading the team in turnovers as a freshman, is the only true point guard on the roster. In his absence, Ryan Conwell has been tasked with handling the ball. Against USF's pressure, Conwell struggled, committing six turnovers as the Bulls pressed late in the game.
Coach Kelsey has relieved some pressure with this tournament win, but for a deeper run, getting Brown back is crucial. The second half against USF highlighted just how much the Cardinals miss their floor general.