Louisville Basketball Secures Commitment from 2027 Guard Isaac Ellis
The Louisville Cardinals have landed a major recruiting coup in the Class of 2027, as dynamic combo guard Isaac Ellis has announced his commitment to the University of Louisville men’s basketball program. The 6-foot-1 guard from Moravian Prep (NC) made his decision official following an unofficial visit to Louisville over the weekend, becoming the second commitment in head coach Pat Kelsey’s 2027 class.
Ellis, a three-star recruit and top-200 prospect nationally, originally pledged to South Carolina during the 2026 cycle, where his older brother Eli Ellis is currently a freshman guard. However, Isaac reopened his recruitment in late November and reclassified into the 2027 class, giving him a fresh start and new opportunities with programs actively building long-term rosters.
A Scoring Playmaker with OTE Star Power
Playing for the YNG Dreamerz in the Overtime Elite league, Ellis has been one of the circuit’s most prolific performers. This season he’s averaging eye-popping numbers, including 30.4 points, 8.0 assists, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.0 steals per game, while showcasing his scoring versatility and playmaking ability. He also set the Overtime Elite single-game scoring record with a 56-point explosion earlier this fall.
Though not a traditional five-star recruit, Ellis’s production and competitive fire have made him an intriguing piece for Louisville’s future backcourt, a guard who can create for himself and others in multiple ways.
Why Louisville? Culture, Energy & Fit
Ellis cited Louisville’s culture and coaching staff as pivotal in his decision. On his visit, he said he felt the program’s energy and detailed approach aligned with the kind of environment he wants around him as he develops into a collegiate player. Ellis praised head coach Pat Kelsey for his competitive nature and authenticity, attributes that stood out during his visit.
“It wasn’t your normal college basketball locker room or practice… everything is super detailed and they do things at a really high level on all aspects,” Ellis said, adding that the culture and family atmosphere were major factors in his choice.
Boosting Louisville’s Recruiting Class
Ellis joins fellow 2027 commit Ferlandes Wright, a three-star forward and local product, helping the Cardinals’ recruiting class earn early top-10 projections in national rankings.
For Louisville, securing a versatile playmaker like Ellis, who blends scoring punch with court vision and leadership qualities adds depth and excitement to a rising roster under Coach Kelsey. His presence could provide scoring punch and playmaking versatility for years to come.
The Broader Picture
With his brother Eli starring in the SEC and the family gaining national attention through social platforms and reality content, Isaac Ellis brings both basketball talent and a significant off-court profile to the Cardinals’ future.
As Ellis prepares for his collegiate journey, Louisville fans will be watching closely — both for his potential impact on the court and the energy he brings to the next chapter of Cardinals basketball.
Written by Alex Karamanos | December 16, 2025