The man behind one of the voices of Louisville Basketball.

August 30th, 2025

In my fourth installment of my Q&A series, I chat with longtime PA announcer of Louisville Men’s Basketball, Lance McGarvey.

(C) When did you get involved with announcing games & why?

(L) I volunteered to announce a Christmas basketball tournament at St. Francis of Assisi in Louisville for nearly 15 years, starting in 2003. I never intended announcing to be more than that. I did it so that I could overcome my fear of public speaking and do something I thought would be fun. I also wanted to be an example to my kids that fear of failure should never stop them from trying new things.

(C) What’s your first memory of Louisville basketball?

(L) My dad played for the Student Baptist Union basketball team when he was in seminary here in Louisville during the mid-70s. They played against the UofL Freshman basketball team - that was a thing back then - so I saw him play them when I was about 5 or 6. Then, we’d get to see the Varsity team play afterwards. Of course, the Cards won the NCAA title in 1980, when I was 10, and that’s a vivid memory.

(C) Who’s the most impactful player in Louisville history in your eyes, and why?

(L) Any answer other than Darrell Griffith would be a reach, in my opinion. Winning the John Wooden Player of the Year Award and Final Four MOP as he led the Cards to they’re first championship seals the deal in my mind.

(C) How deep does your fandom run for the Cards?Beyond basketball, I would assume?

(L) My wife and I buy season tickets for football through her sister every year. I have many fantastic football memories going back to old Cardinal Stadium. Of course, any UofL team or

athlete has my fandom, and I’ve been to lots of volleyball, soccer, baseball, and softball games.

Wish I could attend them all, but there’s not enough time in my life.

(C) In your mind, why should someone become a fan of #CardNation?

(L) That kind of thing is very personal to each individual. It might be that they share love for the Cards with their parents or grandparents. Perhaps they attended UofL and became a fan as a student. Or maybe they were born and raised in Louisville and grew to love them as a child. I Certainly can’t think of any good reasons not to love the Cards!

(C) How tough was it to call games during the Kenny Payne tenure , and when did you know personally it was pretty much over?

(L) It was tough to see the players, coaches, and fans endure the lack of success and the agony of losing. However, announcing the games is an honor for me, regardless of the win/loss record. I only knew it was over when it was announced.

(C) You’ve seen a lot during your times at UofL, in your eyes who would you say is the most. underrated basketball player for the Cards?

(L) For me, I’d say Dwayne Sutton. That kid played his heart out the whole time he was here, and I’m sad the 2020 team didn’t get a chance to play in the NCAA due to the COVID shutdown.

(C) Just how much work prep-wise goes into announcing games?

(L) I spend about 1.5 to 2 hours the night before every game prepping my rosters and re-reading

promotional reads, etc. Then, I arrive about 90 minutes before each game to review the new game script & make sure I’m familiar with all the necessary information. Might be overkill, but I hold myself to very high standards - as do the fans.

(C) What’s been the hardest thing for you to overcome as a fan?

(L) At first, it was tough to check my emotions as I announced the games, whether it be excitement, disappointment, nerves, etc. However, I’ve learned to compartmentalize all that and do the job I’m blessed to have.

(C) How has being a husband and father helped shape you in your personal and

professional lives?

(L) Whether it’s my day job or announcing, it’s critical to perform at the highest level that I’m capable of achieving - and do it in an honorable and ethical manner. My family depends on

me to provide for them for many years. That includes food, shelter, etc., and also guidance on

how to be a good human.

(C) What was your first impression on Coach Kelsey when he first got to the 502?

(L) Pat Kelsey completely blew me away from the first minute of his press conference with his passion, energy, and ability to communicate on a relatable level to the fanbase. I’m highly impressed with every encounter with Coach Kelsey. He’s a special person and we’re fortunate he’s here.

(C) How important was the 2024 season, Pats first year for the future & culture of

Louisville basketball?

(L) Obviously, the Cards had experienced several disappointing and frustrating years, especially for such a proud program. As the new coach, Pat Kelsey had to have a good first season to begin building towards the level of success expected at UofL. He exceeded most expectations and indeed launched us towards what I believe will be many great basketball seasons here.

(C) How should the 2024 squad be revered and remembered in history ?

(L)As an outstanding team that quickly injected new life and passion into this program and fanbase, building a very strong foundation for future success at the level expected for the Cards.

(C) What excites you about the 2025 team ahead of the start of the season?

(L) The combination of highly talented youth and outstanding experienced players has me super stoked for what I believe will be a heck of an exciting team and season.

(C) How do you want to be remembered as a husband & father?

(L) I hope to be remembered as a husband and father that profoundly loves his family and always puts them above all else in this world. Family is everything to me. I hope I make them all proud of the man I am, because I sure am extremely proud of all of them.

(C) What’s your overall thoughts & impression of Coach Kelsey?

(L) Excellent coach, dedicated family man, and committed to achieving huge success here in

Louisville. Never met anyone more passionate than Coach Kelsey in my life.

(C) Lastly, what’s the best piece of advice you had ever received?

(L) My dad once told me “You may not find your passion in your vocation, but rather in your

avocation.” That stuck with me forever. And he was right about that. Although these days, I

love my day job as well as my announcing role. I’m a lucky man.❤️ 🍀