Kenny Payne – Louisville Men's Basketball Head Coach

The Cardinals have found their new leader in Kenny Payne!

Louisville, KY – The University of Louisville Athletics Department has announced the hiring of Kenny Payne as the Cardinals' new men's basketball head coach. Payne, a former Louisville player and assistant coach, returns to his alma mater after spending the past nine seasons as an assistant coach with the New York Knicks.

As a player, Payne was a key member of Louisville's 1986 National Championship team. He was a three-time All-Metro Conference selection and was named the conference's Player of the Year in 1989. After his playing career, Payne began his coaching career as an assistant coach at Oregon and later at Kentucky.

In his nine seasons with the Knicks, Payne has helped the team to three playoff appearances. He has also been credited with developing several young players, including All-Star Kristaps Porzingis.

"We are thrilled to welcome Kenny Payne back to Louisville," said Louisville Athletics Director Josh Heird. "Kenny is a proven winner and a great leader. He knows our program and our city, and he is the perfect person to lead our men's basketball team."

Payne is excited to return to Louisville and lead the Cardinals.

"I am honored to be the head coach at the University of Louisville," Payne said. "This is a special place, and I am committed to building a championship program here."

Payne's hiring is a major coup for Louisville. He is a highly respected coach with a proven track record of success. He is also a Louisville legend, and his return to the program is sure to excite the fan base.

The Cardinals are coming off a disappointing season, but Payne is confident that he can turn things around. He has already begun to assemble a strong coaching staff, and he is excited to get to work with the players.

"I believe that we can win a national championship here," Payne said. "We have the talent, the tradition, and the support. I am excited to get started."