Watch: Kenny Payne, Louisville Players Preview Bellarmine

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Following a winless outing in the Empire Classic, the Louisville men's basketball program almost saw their losing streak extended in their first home game back from the Big Apple. However, they were able to rally late against New Mexico State to force overtime, eventually capturing a 90-84 overtime win this past Sunday.

"I think that we have to be better defensively for longer periods of time. I'll tell you that we have to make sure that we are all connected defensively, communicating defensively.

"Then offensively, the number one team in the country that drawing fouls: Louisville. Third in the country in free throws made: Louisville. We're doing the first part, which is the hardest part of building a team, which is getting the ball in the paint and drawing fouls. Now we got to finish a little better at the rim, and then we got to make sure that when we kick it out, we shoot the ball and shoot the ball a little better, which we're capable of doing."

Next on the docket for the Cardinals is a midweek matchup with crosstown foe Bellarmine. They'll be looking to avenge last season's loss to the Knights, where Louisville fell 67-66 in their first ever regulation game under Payne.

Prior to their matchup with the Knights, Payne, guard Ty-Laur Johnson and guard/forward Mike James took time to meet with the media. They discussed the previous game vs. New Mexico State, previewed the upcoming showdown vs Bellarmine, and more.

Below are the videos from their press conference:

Head Coach Kenny Payne

Guard Ty-Laur Johnson and Guard/Forward Mike James

(Photo of Kenny Payne: Jamie Rhodes - USA TODAY Sports)

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