Louisville Forward James Scott Enters NCAA Transfer Portal

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) – James Scott, a junior forward for the University of Louisville men’s basketball team, has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal, sources confirmed Tuesday night. This move comes as the transfer portal deadline looms.

Scott, who moved to Louisville from Charleston under head coach Pat Kelsey, quickly became a vital asset to the Cardinals during his inaugural season. Known for his gritty playing style, he excelled at screening, ball distribution, and played a strategic role in Kelsey’s offensive system.

Scott gained notoriety after suffering a facial fracture while diving for a loose ball in a game against Florida State on February 8. Despite the injury, he remarkably played through the pain, donning a protective mask crafted by the University of Louisville’s engineering team. He completed the season participating in all 35 games, starting 31.

“He does so many things that don’t show up on the stat sheet,” Kelsey stated after a game. “James Scott is one of the best screeners in our conference, contributing in ways that often go unnoticed.”

Throughout the season, Scott averaged 7.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, showcasing impressive shooting skills with a 75.5% success rate from the field. He recorded 79 dunks, placing him third in the school’s history for a single season, trailing only Montrezl Harrell.

Prior to his time at Louisville, Scott demonstrated his potential as a freshman at Charleston, where he shot 79.2% from the field. He recorded a career-high of 16 points during a victory against SMU and contributed significantly with four double-doubles.

Scott’s decision to enter the transfer portal comes alongside other exits from the Louisville program, including guard Koren Johnson, who has transferred to Ole Miss, and walk-on Patrick Antonelli, who is headed to N.C. State. Cole Sherman also announced his entry into the portal this week.

Entering the transfer portal does not guarantee a commitment to another school, as players often return to their previous institutions. However, with the April 22 deadline passed, athletes like Scott are taking advantage of the opportunity to explore other options.

Louisville now faces the challenge of filling Scott’s position and strengthening their roster for the 2025-26 season.