LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The Louisville Cardinals men’s basketball team is facing challenges as two key players, Aboubacar “Kader” Traore and Koren Johnson, have been sidelined due to injuries. During a recent pregame press conference, head coach Pat Kelsey provided insights into the status of both athletes ahead of the Cardinals’ upcoming game against Ole Miss.
Aboubacar Traore, a forward for the Cardinals, has been out for the last five games after sustaining a broken left arm during practice. This injury occurred between Louisville’s games against Tennessee and Bellarmine. Initially, it was indicated that Traore would be unavailable for “multiple weeks.” However, Kelsey expressed optimism about Traore’s potential return, suggesting that he could be back on the court by late December or early January.
“Kader fractured his arm, so he’s in a cast,” Kelsey stated. “We’re hoping six weeks total, probably. He’s a couple weeks out from the injury, so we’re hoping in the next month or so, he’ll be cleared to play.” This news brings a glimmer of hope to fans and teammates alike, as Traore’s presence is crucial for the team’s performance.
On the other hand, Koren Johnson’s situation remains less clear. Johnson has also missed the last five games due to an unspecified shoulder injury. Kelsey mentioned that Johnson has already undergone an examination for his shoulder, but he is scheduled to visit a specialist later this week to gain further insights into his recovery timeline.
The absence of both Traore and Johnson has undoubtedly impacted the team’s dynamics and performance, as they work to navigate through this challenging period. The Cardinals will be looking to adapt their strategies and make necessary adjustments in their lineup as they prepare for the forthcoming match against Ole Miss.
As the team continues to deal with these injuries, the coaching staff remains focused on providing support and ensuring that the players receive the best care possible. The hope is that both Traore and Johnson will return to full strength soon, allowing them to contribute to the team’s success as the season progresses.
Fans are eagerly awaiting updates on both players’ recoveries, as their contributions are vital for the Cardinals’ aspirations this season. The Louisville community stands behind the team, hoping for a swift return to health for Traore and Johnson, and looking forward to an exciting matchup against Ole Miss.
