After just two seasons, Kenny Payne has been relieved of his duties as the head coach of the University of Louisville men's basketball team. The decision was made official by the university around 12:15 p.m. on Wednesday, stating that Payne would not be returning for the next season in his coaching role.

The termination comes after a disappointing season for the Cardinals, finishing last in the ACC two years in a row and with a record of 12-52 during Payne's tenure. The team's recent loss to NC State in the first round of the ACC Tournament, marking their eighth consecutive defeat, further highlighted the need for a change.

University of Louisville Athletic Director Josh Heird expressed gratitude for Payne's contributions to the university over nearly four decades but acknowledged that a coaching transition was necessary to help the program reach its expected level of success. Heird mentioned that Payne's potential success was initially believed in when he was brought back to his alma mater in 2022. However, it became clear that a different direction was needed.

Payne's hiring in 2022 came at a time when the university was dealing with the fallout from previous coaching staffs and ongoing NCAA investigations. He was expected to bring stability and turn the program around, receiving praise from former UofL players who hoped he would restore the team's prominence. Unfortunately, the team's first season under Payne ended with a 4-28 record, one of the program's worst of all time.

The beginning of Payne's second year showed promise with a highly touted recruiting class, but early losses to Division II schools and a 0-9 start to the season derailed their momentum. The team struggled to maintain leads, often collapsing in the second half, which became a recurring theme throughout Payne's tenure. Despite showing fight and pride in the team's performance, their inability to secure wins ultimately led to his dismissal.

With Payne's departure, the University of Louisville Athletic Department has announced that a national search for the next head coach will begin immediately. Heird will address the media further on the decision at a press conference scheduled for 3 p.m. on Wednesday.

As the university embarks on the search for a new head coach, the future of the Louisville men's basketball program remains uncertain. The hiring of a new coach will be crucial in revitalizing the team and bringing them back to their former glory.