“Build the Statue Now”: Louisville Legend Russ Smith Calls for Pat Kelsey to Be Immortalized
Louisville, KY – July 20, 2025
Just one year into Pat Kelsey’s tenure as head coach of the Louisville Cardinals, the buzz around his impact continues to grow—so much so that Cardinal legend Russ Smith is calling for something unprecedented: a statue.
“Coach Kelsey brought Louisville basketball back to life,” Smith said during a charity event at the KFC Yum! Center on Saturday. “The energy, the wins, the pride—he gave it all back in less than a year. If you ask me, they should start carving that statue now.”
Smith, whose No. 2 jersey hangs in the rafters, praised Kelsey for not only revitalizing the program but also reconnecting with former players and energizing the fanbase. Under Kelsey, the 2024–25 Cardinals went 27–8, reached the ACC Tournament championship, and earned a Sweet Sixteen berth for the first time in nearly a decade.
“You walk into that locker room now, and it feels like 2013 again,” Smith said. “Coach Kelsey’s the real deal. We waited too long for this kind of leadership.”
The remarks have sparked a wave of fan support online, with hashtags like #StatueForKelsey and #KelseyKulture trending among Louisville faithful.
While the university has not commented on any plans for such a tribute, athletic director Josh Heird was seen smiling as he listened to Smith’s comments. “We’re building something special here,” he said. “And Coach Kelsey is right at the center of it.”
For now, a statue may be symbolic—but if Kelsey’s early success continues, bronze might not be far behind.
