Scott's mask is straight out of U of L's J.B. Speed School of Engineering, Kelsey said. "James went over there, and they built the mask," the coach told reporters back in February.

Scott was diving for a loose ball when an opposing player accidentally crushed Scott's face on the court in the first half of the Cardinals' win over the Miami Hurricanes on Feb. 8.

Now, in time for the NCAA Tournament, they've perfected their creation. Scott and the Cardinals will open up the NCAA Tournament on Thursday at 12:15 p.m. against Creighton in Lexington.

Though it hides Scott's face, the mask highlights his determination and dedication to Card Nation. "James is kind of a microcosm of the toughness of our entire team," Kelsey said.

Scott, a 6-11 transfer from Louisville who averaged 7.1 points and 6.1 rebounds, was a top addition. Beard says he has emphasized adding high-character players form the portal with experience winning.

Scott somehow played 21 minutes, picking up six points and four rebounds in the 91-66 win over NC State while wearing a mask designed at the J.B. Speed School of Engineering on Louisville's campus.