College Sports Established
1914
Location
Louisville, Kentucky
College Name
University of Louisville
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
1914 - 1921 / Athletic Association of the United States
Conference History
2014 – Present / ACC
2005 - 2013 / Big East Conference
1995 - 2005 / Conference USA
1975 - 1995 / Metro Conference
1941 - 1975 / Independent
1914 - 1941 / Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Nickname
Cardinals - The Louisville Cardinals have been a staple of college athletics since their founding in 1911. With such a long history, it’s no surprise that the team has developed an iconic nickname—the “Cardinals.” But where did this name come from? Let’s take a look at the origins of this beloved moniker.
According to legend, the Cardinals were first called by their now-famous nickname in 1913 when then-football coach John Linn was asked what color his team would be wearing for an upcoming game against Kentucky State College (now known as the University of Louisville). In response, he said they would be wearing red and white, just like “a cardinal bird." The name stuck and soon became official when local newspapers called them "Linn's Redbirds" or simply "The Redbirds."
From there on out, fans adopted different variations, including The Fighting Cards; Cardiac Kids; Big Red; Cradle Robbers; Ville Birds, and finally - Cardinal Nation! While some nicknames may have faded over time due to changing trends or lack of relevance with modern times – one thing is sure: The Louisville Cardinals will forever remain true to its roots!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 2
1986, 1980
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1980
- 1986
- 2012
- 2013
- 2018
- 2019
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Cardinals win their first NCAA men’s basketball championship
In 1980: The Cardinals win their first NCAA men’s basketball championship under coach Denny Crum. -
1986 Louisville Cardinals Basketball Champs
The 1986 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament involved 64 schools playing in single-elimination play to determine the national champion of men’s NCAA Division I college basketball. It began on March 13, 1986, and ended with the championship game on March 31 in Dallas, Texas. A total of 63 games were played. Louisville, coached by Denny Crum, won the national ... -
Cardinals joined the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC)
In 2012: The Cardinals receive and accept an invitation to join the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). -
NCAA men’s basketball championship
In 2013: The Cardinals win their third NCAA men’s basketball championship under coach Rick Pitino. -
Lamar Jackson – Louisville Cardinals
When Jackson entered the 2017 season, his fan base and media had high expectations of his performance. College GameDay announced their return to the University of Louisville to host the opening matchup on September 16 between the returning National Champions, Clemson Tigers, and the Cardinals. Despite the 47–21 blowout the Tigers achieved, Jackson did not let the numbers affect his ... -
successful football season under coach Scott Satterfield
In 2019: The Cardinals have a successful football season under coach Scott Satterfield, who leads them to an 8–5 record and a win over Mississippi State in the Music City Bowl.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
History of the Cardinals
The Cardinals have had some legendary players throughout their storied history, such as Wes Unseld, who led them to their first National Championship victory against UCLA back in 1980; Darrell Griffith, who was named MVP for his performance during Louisville’s second championship win over Duke; and Peyton Siva whose leadership helped bring another Final Four appearance to UofL just last year. Other notable alumni include Donovan Mitchell from this past season's NBA draft class, Gorgui Dieng from the 2013-14 All-American selection list, and Luke Hancock from the 2014 Most Outstanding Player award recipient.
In addition to having talented players on its roster throughout its existence, Louisville is also known for its passionate fan base, which helps create an electric atmosphere at home games inside KFC Yum! The center or anywhere else they play around the country. This support and a strong coaching staff have allowed the UofL basketball team to reach new heights over the years while maintaining consistent success on the court each season despite changes in personnel or other factors outside its control. As long these components remain in place, there is little doubt that future generations will continue to see the same excellence in the Cardinal Basketball program – something fans everywhere can look forward to!
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