New Louisville Basketball Coach Pat Kelsey’s Impressive Record and Huge Contract: What You Need to Know

Louisville is reportedly set to hire College of Charleston head coach Pat Kelsey as their new basketball coach, following the dismissal of Kenny Payne earlier this month. According to multiple sources, Kelsey is finalizing a deal that will see him take over the Cardinals’ program either on Wednesday or Thursday.

In just two seasons at College of Charleston, Kelsey has compiled an impressive 74-27 overall record, with a marked 39-15 record in the Coastal Athletic Association. The 2022-23 season was his standout year, where he guided the Cougars to a historic 31-4 record and set a program record for the most wins at the NCAA Division I level. This successful run included the nation’s longest winning streak at 20 games and a month-long spot in The Associated Press’ Top 25 poll.

Kelsey also recently signed a lucrative five-year contract extension worth $1 million in annual pay running through the 2028 season, making him the highest-paid coach in the CAA. The deal includes bonuses he received this year and a $50,000 pay raise had he remained for the following year. The contract has a $1 million buyout clause in case Kelsey decides to leave Charleston before 2028.

Several key players from the Cougers have entered the transfer portal amidst the coaching change, including Ante Brzovic, Ben Burnham, Jordan Crawford, Khalil London, and Evan Kilminster. Kelsey’s adaptability to