Courtesy of Eurobasket LLC Every week we bring you a list of the top former Cardinals players who continue their career in pro basketball.
Look at great performance of Jaylen Johnson (40 points), Donovan Mitchell (31 points), and Jordan Nwora (12 points).
#1. Jaylen Johnson, a 6'9'' center who graduated from Louisville in 2017 and currently plays professionally in the Philippines, showcased his leadership skills as he guided the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters to a thrilling victory over the Kings in a highly anticipated match in the Filipino Philippine Basketball Association last Wednesday. In this derby game, Johnson's MVP performance was instrumental in securing a 115-111 win for his team, solidifying their position as a top contender in the league standings. Throughout the game, Johnson displayed his versatility and skill on the court, achieving an impressive double-double with 40 points and 19 rebounds, while also contributing 3 assists in 44 minutes of play. This exceptional performance not only earned him the MVP title but also garnered him the admiration of fans and experts alike. The showdown between Rain or Shine Elasto Painters and the Kings was a highlight of the season, showcasing the competitive spirit and talent of both teams. With this victory, Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, currently placed third in the league, demonstrated their determination to emerge as champions this season. Johnson's remarkable year is further highlighted by his exceptional individual statistics, averaging 24.3 points per game, 14.0 rebounds per game, 5.8 assists per game (ranking fourth in the league), 1.6 blocks per game, and 1.6 steals per game in the 15 games he has played thus far. His consistent performance and significant contributions on the court underscore his status as a true champion in the league.
#2. Donovan Mitchell, a 6'3'' guard and 29-year-old Cardinals alumnus from 2017, currently playing professionally in the NBA, showcased his skills in the recent match for the Cleveland Cavaliers (52-30). Despite his remarkable performance, the Cleveland Cavaliers (52-30) were defeated 130-93 on the road by the New York Knicks. Mitchell, the team's champion, led the scoring with 31 points and contributed 4 rebounds in 32 minutes of play. This marks Mitchell's fourth season with the team. In the game against the New York Knicks, the finalist displayed an impressive performance, scoring 31 points, securing 4 rebounds, and providing 1 assist. Despite Mitchell's exceptional efforts, his team fell short of securing the victory. Throughout the season, Mitchell has maintained high statistics, averaging 27.5 points per game, 4.6 rebounds per game, 5.1 assists per game, and 1.4 steals per game in the 88 games he has participated in so far.
#3. Nigerian basketball champion Jordan Nwora, a 6'8'' small forward aged 27, is a Louisville graduate from the class of 2020 and currently plays professionally in Serbia. In a recent game for Crvena zvezda (18-6), Nwora showcased his talent by delivering a stellar performance, emerging as the top scorer with 12 points and contributing 4 rebounds in 29 minutes of play. Despite his impressive efforts, Crvena zvezda suffered a 78-89 defeat to their rivals, the second-ranked Partizan, in a highly anticipated derby match. This loss marked Crvena zvezda's first setback following a streak of four consecutive victories. Nwora, in his debut season with the team, has been a standout player, consistently delivering strong performances throughout the season. His notable averages of 15.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.2 steals per game in the 21 games he has played so far highlight his significant contributions to the team. Additionally, as a naturalized Nigerian, Nwora's presence on the court has been instrumental in the team's success, despite the recent defeat to Partizan. His all-around skills and scoring ability have made him a key player for Crvena zvezda as they strive for success in their league campaign.
#4. Experienced Slovakian player Kyle Kuric, a 6'4'' shooting guard at 36 years old, and an alumnus of the Cardinals from 2012, currently competes professionally in Spain. Recently, he showcased his talent by leading MoraBanc Andorra to a resounding 116-88 victory over closely-ranked Lleida (12-21) in the Spanish Liga Endesa. Kuric, who was named the MVP of the game, delivered an exceptional performance by scoring an impressive 28 points in just 22 minutes of play. MoraBanc Andorra, currently placed 16th in the league with a record of 10-23, has only one more game left in the Regular Season, making their upcoming match crucial for their standings. Kuric's remarkable contribution of 28 points and 3 rebounds in the recent game against Lleida was vital in securing the win for his team, highlighting his importance on the court. Throughout this season, Kuric has maintained solid statistics, averaging 11.9 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game in 31 appearances. It is worth noting that he is a naturalized American, adding to the diverse background of this talented champion.
#5. South Sudanese champion Carlik Jones, a 6'1'' point guard at 28 years old who graduated from Louisville in 2021 and received the All-ACC First Team award that year, is currently playing professionally in Serbia. In a recent game in the AdmiralBet ABA League, Jones faced off against finalist Jordan Nwora. The game saw Jones playing a key role in Partizan's victory over the closely-ranked Crvena zvezda with a score of 89-78 in a highly anticipated derby match. Jones showcased his skills by contributing 9 points and making 8 assists in 30 minutes of play. In the game against Crvena zvezda, Jones displayed an impressive performance by not only scoring 9 points but also grabbing 1 rebound and dishing out 8 assists. His remarkable display of talent and leadership on the court played a crucial role in securing the win for his team, highlighting his capabilities as a true champion. Throughout the season, Jones has maintained solid statistics with an average of 10.5 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game in 14 appearances. His consistent performance and contribution to his team's success further solidify his reputation as a standout player in the league.
#6. Montrezl Harrell, a 6'8'' center and Cardinals alumni from 2015, showcased his basketball prowess in a recent game in the Puerto Rican Baloncesto Superior Nacional. Playing for Atleticos de San German, he led his team to a resounding 84-68 victory over the fifth-ranked Leones. Harrell's stellar performance earned him the MVP title for the game, as he recorded a double-double with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 assists in just 32 minutes of play. His remarkable display of talent on the court solidified his reputation as a champion. Throughout the season, Harrell has consistently delivered outstanding performances, averaging 15.9 points, 9.4 rebounds (ranking fourth in the league), and 2.5 assists per game over 21 appearances. His impressive stats reflect his commitment to excellence and his invaluable contributions to his team's success. Harrell's exceptional skills and dedication make him a standout player in the league, demonstrating why he is truly a champion in every sense of the word.
#7. Jarrod West, a 6'0'' forward who is 27 years old and a graduate of Louisville in 2022, currently plays professionally in Bosnia. Recently, he was honored with the Australiabasket.com All-New Zealand NBL Defensive Player of the Year award. In a recent game, West led KK Bosna Meridianbet Sarajevo to a resounding victory over the third-ranked OKK Sloboda Tuzla, with a final score of 88-45 in the Bosnia and Herzegovina Division I. West's stellar performance included scoring 13 points, grabbing 4 rebounds, and dishing out 4 assists in just 24 minutes of play. His exceptional skills and contributions were instrumental in his team's success in the game. Throughout this season, West has maintained solid averages of 9.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.0 steals per game in the two games played so far. His consistent performance and leadership on the court have been crucial in propelling his team towards victory, showcasing his prowess as a champion player.
#8. Australian basketball player Reyne Smith, a 6'2'' guard and 23-year-old Cardinals alum from 2025, showcased his exceptional skills in a recent game in the Australian NBL One league. Smith, who had previously helped his team reach the final of the ACC Tournament in 2025, currently plays professionally in Australia. In a standout performance, Smith led the Maitland Mustangs to a commanding 85-61 victory over the fifth-ranked Manly Warringah Sea Eagles. His stellar play was instrumental in securing the win, as he scored an impressive 28 points and made 3 steals in just 32 minutes of play. These remarkable contributions earned him the MVP award for the game. Throughout the season, Smith has maintained impressive statistics, averaging 23.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.3 steals per game over 11 appearances. His consistent high-level performance has been a key factor in his team's success, culminating in their recent triumph as champions in the game against Manly Warringah Sea Eagles.
#9. Russ Smith, a 6'0'' point guard who is 35 years old and graduated from Louisville in 2014, currently plays professionally in Italy. Despite his efforts, Smith could not lead his team, Puglia, to victory against Roseto, one of the league's stronger teams. In the match, he managed to score 7 points, grab 3 rebounds, and provide 2 assists in 25 minutes of play, showcasing his skills on the court. However, Puglia suffered a tough loss, with a final score of 100-84, as Roseto emerged as the champion. Throughout the season, Smith has demonstrated consistent performance, averaging 14.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game across 25 appearances. Despite the setback in the recent game, Smith's contributions on the court have been notable as he continues to strive for success in the league.
#10. Egyptian basketball champion Anas Mahmoud, a 31-year-old center standing at 7 feet tall and a proud alumnus of the Cardinals from 2018, has been making waves in the basketball world. Currently playing professionally in Tanzania, he recently led his team, Dar City, to a thrilling victory over the closely-ranked P.Luanda with a final score of 88-82 in the Basketball Africa League last Saturday. In this exciting match, Mahmoud showcased his skills by achieving a double-double performance, scoring 13 points and securing an impressive 12 rebounds. Additionally, he contributed 6 assists and 2 blocks during his 31 minutes on the court. His standout performance against P.Luanda not only helped his team secure the win but also earned him recognition with the prestigious Triple-Double Badge from eurobasket.com, further highlighting his status as a basketball finalist. Throughout this year, Mahmoud has maintained solid statistics with an average of 14.7 points per game, 3.5 rebounds per game, 2.8 assists per game, and 1.1 steals per game across 25 games. His consistent performance and remarkable contributions on the court continue to solidify his reputation as a true champion in the world of basketball.
Other former University of Louisville players, who play in pro basketball:
Juan Tello-Palacios (6'9''-F/C-1985, played in 2004-08) plays for Regatas in Argentinian La Liga
Chucky Hepburn (6'2''-G-2003, played in 2024-25) plays for Toronto Raptors in the NBA
Terry Rozier (6'1''-G-1994, played in 2013-15) plays for Miami Heat in the NBA
Malik Williams (6'11''-F/C-1998, played in 2017-22) plays for Zhejiang Guangsha Lions in Chinese CBA
VJ King (6'6''-F-1997, played in 2016-19) plays for Bursaspor Basketbol in Turkish BSL
Steven Enoch (6'10''-C-1997, played in 2017-17) plays for Mersin Spor in Turkish BSL
Earl Clark (6'10''-PF-1988, played in 2006-09) plays for Aguada in Uruguayan LUB
Tony Hicks (6'3''-G-1994, played in 2015-15) plays for Keravnos in Cypriot ECOMMBX BL
Chinanu Onuaku (6'10''-C-1996, played in 2014-16) plays for Cangrejeros de Santurce in Puerto Rican BSN
Terrence Edwards (6'6''-G/F-2002, played in 2024-25) plays for Avtodor in Russian VTB United League
Damion Lee (6'6''-G-1992, played in 2015-16) plays for Ironi Hai Motors Nes-Ziona in Israeli Winner League
Deng Adel (6'7''-F-1997, played in 2015-18) plays for Al Sadd in Qatari QBL
Ray Spalding (6'10''-F-1997, played in 2015-18) plays for Noblesville Boom in the NBA G League
Noah Waterman (6'11''-C-2000, played in 2024-25) plays for Pass lab Yamagata Wyverns in Japanese B2 League
Samardo Samuels (6'9''-F/C-1989, played in 2008-10) played for Correcaminos UAT Victoria in Mexican LNBP few monts ago
Jeremy Tyler (6'10''-F-1991, played in 2008-09) played for Al Arabi in Qatari QBL last year
Brian Bowen II (6'8''-SF-1998, played in 2017-18) plays for Kozuv in North Macedonian Super League
David Johnson (6'4''-G-2001, played in 2019-21) plays for Northside Wizards in Australian NBL One
Aboubacar Traore (6'5''-F-2001, played in 2024-25) plays for La Leonesa in Spanish Segunda FEB
Charles Minlend Jr. (6'4''-G-1997, played in 2020-21) plays for Levallois Metropolitans BC in French NM1
Peyton Siva (6'0''-G-1990, played in 2009-13) played for The Ville - Louisville Alumni in the The Basketball Tournament last year
Chris Smith (6'2''-G-1987, played in 2009-09) plays for Caimanes in Colombian LBP
Edgar Sosa (6'3''-F-1988, played in 2006-10) plays for Naft Zagros in Iranian Superleague
Chane Behanan (6'6''-F-1992, played in 2011-14) played for The Ville - Louisville Alumni in the The Basketball Tournament last year
Chris Jones (5'10''-PG-1991, played in 2013-15) played for The Ville - Louisville Alumni in the The Basketball Tournament last year
Mangok Mathiang (6'10''-C-1992, played in 2012-12) plays for Tigers in Rwandan RBL
Notice: The list above includes only some of alumni playing currently in pro basketball. Check complete list of University of Louisville basketball alumni.
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