Video, transcript: Press conference introduction by Pat Kelsey.

Dr. Kim Schatzel’s Opening Statement

“Good afternoon, everyone. Today is a very, very positive day for UofL’s men’s basketball program, our athletics department, the university, the city of Louisville, and for all members of Card Nation from across Kentucky and the US. We are here to introduce our new head coach of the men’s basketball program, Pat Kelsey, to the University of Louisville.

“I’ll ask Josh to formally introduce Coach Kelsey shortly. I want to start by acknowledging and thanking Josh Heird for his outstanding leadership of our Department of Athletics. This search has brought us the perfect coach and leader for our esteemed men’s basketball program and our university. Josh, I cannot thank you enough for your partnership and guidance. With your leadership, UofL Athletics has a very bright future, adding to the University of Louisville’s reputation as a national institution known for excellence in academics and athletics.

“When Josh and I discussed the qualities he sought in a coach to lead our men’s basketball program, he emphasized the importance of high character, a proven track record of building successful programs, exceptional teaching and mentoring skills, a commitment to excellence on and off the court, a strong connection with fans and the community, and a dynamic personality ready to embrace the responsibility of leading one of the most legendary programs in collegiate basketball history. The goal was to secure the best coach for Cardinal Basketball for many years to come. After thorough discussions and evaluations, and after meeting Coach Kelsey and his family, I am confident that we made the right choice. I want to express my deepest appreciation for Josh and his team’s tireless efforts throughout this search. I also want to thank his family, Abby, Hadley, and Gus, for their unwavering support. Congratulations to Josh for this outstanding hire in Coach Kelsey. Josh, please proceed with the introduction.”

Josh Heird’s Opening Statement

“Thank you, Dr. Schatzel. There are many people here today, which is fantastic. I’d like to express my gratitude to several individuals. Firstly, my staff. Over the past few weeks, I’ve been busy, and I feel like I’ve been everywhere at once. I won’t single anyone out; instead, I’ll say that every member of my staff has been exceptional. I genuinely appreciate everything they’ve done during this process.

“Dr. Schatzel, thank you for your guidance and support throughout this search. Abby, Gus, and Hadley, thank you for your support. You keep me grounded, and I know that everything will be okay. To everyone who offered support and guidance, there were many of you, thank you.

“As I approached this search, I viewed it as an opportunity to find the right leader for our program. I wasn’t focused on specific names or winning the press conference. I wanted to have as many conversations as possible to find the best fit for our university and city. I wanted someone who could build and elevate our program to greatness. Over his 12 years as a head coach, Pat Kelsey has achieved success at Winthrop and the College of Charleston, winning 11 regular-season and conference championships. I also sought someone who could adapt to the evolving landscape of college athletics. Pat’s readiness to embrace challenges, like the NIL program, demonstrated his ability to navigate changes in the industry. Additionally, I was looking for a coach who could connect with fans and manage the demands of the job effectively. Pat’s passion for the game and dedication to his team and community were evident. He has the energy, organization, and leadership qualities necessary for success. Pat’s commitment to building a winning culture aligns perfectly with our values at UofL. Lastly, I wanted a winner, and Pat Kelsey embodies that. Throughout my conversations with various stakeholders, it was clear that Pat is a proven winner.

“This search may have taken longer than expected, but I was unwilling to compromise on finding the right fit. Pat Kelsey is undeniably the best candidate for the job. Johnny, Ruthie, Caroline, Lisa, welcome to Louisville. We’re thrilled to have you join the Cardinal family. Pat, it’s an honor to introduce you as the head coach of the Louisville men’s basketball program.”

Pat Kelsey’s Opening Statement

“Coaches don’t like turnovers, whether in football or basketball. This morning, Josh picked me up in Charleston, South Carolina, and I committed my first turnover. I approached him, and my shirt had a hint of blue. He jokingly asked how far my house was from here. This passion from the fan base is evident, as Dr. Schatzel mentioned. Louisville’s basketball program has a rich history and tradition—one of the most storied in college basketball. You can feel it everywhere you go, from stepping off the airplane to walking down the street. Card Nation is everywhere.”