It used to be. Their relationship with Adidas hasn’t helped their rebuild. The pipeline to the great players is just not there. And the portal hasn’t helped them either. For a program trying to regain its glory, it’s nearly impossible because these kids nowadays are about showcasing, winning and grabbing the spotlight. Louisville has added castoffs from other schools, mid level talent and some really unskilled players. Even in a down year in the ACC, they cannot compete. They need to worry about their program and quit trying to hire a coach to compete against Kentucky, because they are light years away from that happening.
I liken them to DePaul University. They may never be what they once were. You just can’t build a program like you used to, the good players will take the money and transfer, it’s an uphill battle and the last thing they need to worry about is their coach. It’s completely unfair to him, given the situation he walked in on. They need to start living for tomorrow and quit trying to relive the past. The past is what got them where they are today.