Louisville Phenom Mikel Brown Jr. Sets ACC Freshman Scoring Record

The Cardinals' star freshman erupted for 45 points, including 10 3-pointers, in a dominant performance.

Feb. 9, 2026 at 9:31pm

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Louisville Cardinals freshman Mikel Brown Jr. had a historic night, setting the ACC single-game scoring record for a freshman with 45 points in a win over an unnamed opponent. Brown shot 14-for-23 from the field and 10-for-16 from 3-point range, adding 9 rebounds, 3 steals, and 2 assists. After the game, Brown credited his teammates for encouraging him to keep shooting and be himself.

Why it matters

Brown arrived at Louisville as a highly touted top-10 recruit, but had a slow start to his college career due to some inefficient shooting nights and an injury. This record-setting performance cements Brown's status as one of the best players in the country and a likely NBA lottery pick in the upcoming draft.

The details

Mikel Brown Jr. caught fire, hitting 10 3-pointers on his way to 45 points, shattering the previous ACC freshman scoring record. He was efficient from the field, going 14-for-23, and added 9 rebounds, 3 steals, and 2 assists to his stat line. After the game, Brown credited his teammates for encouraging him to keep shooting and be himself.

  • The game took place on February 10, 2026.

The players

Mikel Brown Jr.

A freshman phenom for the Louisville Cardinals, Brown is a top-10 recruit expected to be a one-and-done player before entering the NBA Draft.

Louisville Cardinals

The college basketball team that Mikel Brown Jr. plays for, known for their strong basketball program.

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What they’re saying

“I give all credit to my teammates. They told me to keep going. They told me to be myself.”

— Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville Cardinals Freshman (ESPN)

What’s next

Brown will look to lead the Louisville Cardinals on a deep March Madness run, and his record-setting performance has solidified his status as a likely NBA lottery pick in the upcoming draft.

The takeaway

Mikel Brown Jr.'s record-setting 45-point game showcases his immense talent and potential, and serves as a reminder that the Louisville Cardinals have a true superstar on their hands who could lead them to great success this season.