UPDATE: Louisville Cardinals star guard Mikel Brown Jr. will not play in the highly anticipated game against the No. 6 Duke Blue Devils on Tuesday, November 7, 2023. This urgent news was confirmed by head coach Pat Kelsey during the ACC coaches’ media call on Monday.
Brown has been sidelined for the last four games due to a lower-back injury, and his absence is felt deeply as the Cardinals, currently ranked No. 16, struggle with a 2-2 record in his absence. “He’s rehabbing hard; he’s trying to,” Kelsey stated following Louisville’s recent loss to Stanford. “We ramped him up a little bit in practice, and then we had a little bit of a setback. We’re hoping it gets better soon and he gets back out there.”
In his 10 games this season, Brown has made a significant impact, averaging 16.6 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game. His absence is particularly crucial as the Cardinals gear up for a challenging schedule that includes games against Boston College and No. 21 Virginia following the Duke matchup.
As a five-star recruit, Brown was touted as one of the best freshmen in the country, showcasing his talent with standout performances earlier in the season, including a remarkable 29 points and five assists in a victory over Kentucky. His potential return could be vital for the Cardinals’ prospects as they aim for a strong finish in the ACC.
In Brown’s absence, former Kennesaw State transfer Adrian Wooley has stepped into the starting role, averaging 12.3 points in the four games he has played as a starter. This developing situation leaves fans anxious to see how Louisville will perform against a formidable Duke team without their star player.
As the game approaches, all eyes will be on Brown’s recovery and whether he can return to the court soon. The urgency surrounding his status underscores the stakes for the Cardinals as they navigate a challenging season. Stay tuned for more updates on Brown’s condition and the upcoming game.
