What Pat Kelsey and Louisville Players Said After 89-75 Loss to Creighton
Following Louisville’s 89-75 defeat to Creighton in the NCAA Tournament, head coach Pat Kelsey and several players shared their thoughts on the game.
Head Coach Pat Kelsey, Guard/Forward J’Vonne Hadley, and Guard/Forward Terrence Edwards Jr.
Pat Kelsey: “I want to congratulate Coach McDermott and Creighton—they played really well today. They were the better team. It was a tough environment, being so close to our school, but they deserve credit. I’m proud of our guys. From June 5th, when we started with zero players, we built this team quickly. They embraced everything we asked of them and gave everything they had for ten months. This group is special, and I’ll remember them for the rest of my life. It’ll hurt for a while, but when they look back on their accomplishments, they’ll see they did something truly special.”
Terrence Edwards Jr.: “Our heart goes out to Reyne. We knew he wasn’t 100%, but what he did today was something I’ll always remember. He gave everything for us. I see how hard he works in treatment, and he never once said he wasn’t good to go. He’s an example of sacrifice and commitment.”
J’Vonne Hadley: “In the first half, we got frustrated. They were physical with us and we couldn’t get to the spots we wanted. As a veteran team, we need to do a better job of staying calm and taking smarter shots. Our bad shots led to their fast breaks and open three-pointers. We need to be more composed.”
On Creighton’s Performance: Hadley: “Creighton’s size and physicality, along with their shooters, were tough to defend. They hit a lot of transition threes. The big man inside gave them a strong presence, and their shooters took full advantage.”
Edwards Jr.: “We’ve faced similar teams before, like Stanford and Clemson, but Creighton’s shooters were on fire tonight. We let them get open looks, and they capitalized.”
Reflections on the Season: Edwards Jr.: “We’ve been through a lot of adversity, with early losses and key injuries. But this team came together, had no excuses, and embraced a next-man-up mentality. What we went through this season will make me a better person, and I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned.”
Hadley: “Creighton’s shooting was impressive. We let them get open looks, and they made us pay for it.”
On the Impact of the Fanbase: Hadley: “Our fans have been incredible. The support we received, especially as we left for March Madness, was overwhelming. We didn’t get the win, but we are so grateful for our fans’ loyalty and passion.”
Edwards Jr.: “It’s going to take time to appreciate everything we’ve done, especially after the way we ended the season. It’ll be hard, but we’ll get there eventually.”
Looking Ahead: Kelsey: “The end of the season is tough, especially when it comes so suddenly. But when I look at this group, I realize how special they are. Our fans have been amazing, and I hate that we couldn’t give them the win they deserved. We’ll reflect on this season, but it will hurt for a while.”
On the Game’s Final Moments: Kelsey: “Creighton hit a big stretch early, with a 12-0 run that we couldn’t recover from. Their transition play and shooting were key, and every time we gained momentum, they hit a dagger shot. We made adjustments, but they were the better team today.”
On Adversity and Future Roster Building: Kelsey: “This team faced a lot of adversity this season, and what they accomplished was special. I’m proud of them. As for next season, we’re excited about the players coming back, and we’ll continue to build a team that can compete for a championship. But for now, we’re focused on this season and the lessons we’ve learned.”
On Chucky Hepburn’s Performance: Kelsey: “Chucky had a great first half, but in the second half, Creighton’s defensive scheme made it tough for him. They funneled everything to their rim protector, forcing us into difficult situations.”
On the Water Bottle Incident: Kelsey: “I didn’t see the water bottle thrown on the court. I had just gotten a technical and was talking to my team when I noticed something happening at the other end. It’s unfortunate, but it happened.”
This concludes the reflections of Pat Kelsey and his players following the tough loss to Creighton in the NCAA Tournament.
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