The plane ride to paradise holds a special significance for Louisville basketball. It's a time of anticipation and preparation as the team gears up for important games. Pat Kelsey and the Cardinals, currently with a 3-1 record, have their work cut out for them as they prepare to take the court for three games in as many days as part of the Bad Boy Mowers Battle 4 Atlantis.

Glass Half Full: U of L's Victory Over Winthrop

On Friday night at the KFC Yum! Center, Louisville fended off Winthrop with a 76-61 win. This victory moved the team two games above the.500 mark for the first time since January 28, 2022. After a disastrous era under Kenny Payne when mid-majors dominated Denny Crum Court, this win was a significant step forward. It showed the team's ability to come away with an ugly win when needed.During the game, Louisville led by eight at halftime, 35-27. However, they faced some challenges such as 12 turnovers (three off their season high against the Volunteers), getting beat on the offensive glass 11-2 and second-chance points 12-4, and a 3-for-9 clip from 3-point range. But they managed to overcome these obstacles and secure the win.J’Vonne Hadley led the way with a game-high 13 rebounds alongside 12 points, notching his first double-double in the red and black. James Scott and Chucky Hepburn also contributed with 12 and 10 points respectively. The team forced 19 turnovers, leading to 21 points, and their defense ranked fourth in the country on KenPom.com with a 25.9% turnover rate.

Glass Half Empty: The Challenge Against Indiana

If Louisville plays like it did during the first half against Winthrop when they battle No. 18 Indiana on Wednesday in the Bahamas, they could face another lopsided loss. Earlier this month, they suffered a beatdown at the hands of then-No. 12 Tennessee.During the game against Winthrop, they had 20 turnovers, a season-high. Five of the team's 26 3-point attempts went in, with Reyne Smith leading all scorers with 20 points off the bench. The rest of the team went 2 for 17 from deep.Coach Kelsey emphasized that no coach is ever satisfied and there are always ways to improve. The team has shown growth, but there are still things to clean up. They will face a big test in the Bahamas over the next couple of days and are looking forward to it.

Rebounding and Grit in the Second Half

In the second half, Louisville turned up the heat on the rebounding front. They finished the period with a 25-18 advantage, showing their determination and competitiveness. This improvement on the boards was a key factor in their ability to secure the win.The team's grit was on full display throughout the game. They played as a team, forcing 19 turnovers and converting them into 21 points. James Scott accounted for half of the team's season-high 10 blocks, while Chucky Hepburn had the best plus-minus rating of +16.Coach Kelsey praised the team's overall grit and understanding of what they need to do. They are now an advanced team, not still trying to knock the rust off but with a firm understanding of their game plan.

The Upcoming Battle 4 Atlantis

On Wednesday, Louisville will tip off against No. 18 Indiana at noon in Game 1 of the Battle 4 Atlantis. After that, they will face either No. 4 Gonzaga or West Virginia in the second round. On the other side of the bracket, there are No. 17 Arizona, Davidson, Oklahoma, and Providence.The team is boarding the flight confident that they have come a long way since their summer exhibition trip to Nassau. They are ready to showcase their skills and continue their journey towards success.Reach Louisville men's basketball reporter Brooks Holton at bholton@gannett.com and follow him on X at @brooksHolton.