LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WHAS11) – In April 2013, William Hancock watched his son Luke become a National Champion and the Most Outstanding player. Just a few months later, he lost his battle with cancer.
“That was the last time my dad got all of his kids under one roof...and it was a really big roof, but that experience means a lot to my family, it means a lot to me, it means a lot to the entire Louisville community,” said Luke Hancock, former UofL player.
Luke says they are memories he'll cherish forever, whether there's a banner hanging at the Yum! Center or not.
“I feel that this is really disappointing but it doesn't change a whole heck of a lot,” he said.
Just hours after interim University of Louisville president Greg Postel announced the devastating news for UofL fans, Luke was emotional but proudly wearing his championship ring, ready to move forward.
“If nothing else, we can put this behind us and kind of move in the right direction. I whole heartedly disagree with the decision,” Luke said.
It's been nearly five years since Luke and his teammates hoisted that championship trophy in the air. He now spends his spare time off the hardwood and in a radio studio...but to he says no matter what, he will always be a proud cardinal.
“I feel strongly about this place, and this community and this team. The Louisville Men's Basketball program I still feel like it is a top 10 program in the country, a top 10 coaching job in the country, a great place to play basketball and it's going to stay that way,” Luke said.
The NCAA says Luke was not a part of the sex scandal. But he says he does not have any hard feelings toward his teammates who were mentioned. He says all of those allegations are simply not true.
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