Louisville basketball: 2019-2020 season review and 2020-2021 first-look preview

An early look at the 2020-21 roster

For the second straight year, Mack will bid adieu to a decent number of players, though the expected departure of Nwora for the NBA Draft — for real this time — will obviously be most keenly felt. Anyone left would have to at least double their output to equal Nwora’s scoring, to say nothing of his contributions on the glass. The team’s leading long-range threat and three of its top four rebounders also need to be replaced.

That means there’s plenty of opportunities for the 2019 freshman class to step it up to the level many thought they might reach right away. Johnson probably showed the most promise, leading the team in assists despite playing only 16 minutes a contest and showing scoring chops as well. He’s almost certainly ready for a breakout next season. Williamson will have every chance for more playing time and is the most likely candidate in terms of position and talent to fill Nwora’s very big shoes.

Josh Nickelberry arrived at Louisville with a reputation as someone who could stroke it from deep, so maybe he can replace what McMahon gave the Cards. But the x-factor could be someone who didn’t play at all this season: swingman Jae’Lyn Withers, who has a do-it-all toolset that Louisville could definitely use.

None of the incoming freshmen are as highly touted as Williamson, but there are three four-star forwards on the way, including one from the same city. That would be Jay Scrubb, who joins the team from John A. Logan Community College and figures to be an immediate fan favorite. That gives Mack a ton of pieces with which to assemble a contender, and he’s also shown some aptness at getting valuable transfers to come aboard. His second season at the helm may have ended suddenly, but don’t be surprised if his third is another step forward for the program he’s building.

For more NCAA basketball news, analysis, opinion and features, check out more from the FanSided college basketball section to stay on top of the latest action.