Ali planned to meet Louisville Baseball in Omaha

Louisville baseball coach Dan McDonnell got a text from a member of the Ali family just after 2 a.m. this morning. The Greatest had planned to meet UofL in Omaha later this month if the Cardinals made the College World Series.

The Alis, ardent supporters of the University of Louisville for years, had become big Louisville Baseball fans when their son, Asaad, walked on to the team six years ago. They followed the program every season since, and had planned to make the trip to Omaha for the College World Series if the Cardinals made it that far.

Louisville, the No. 2 overall seed in this year's NCAA Tournament, are one win away from a Super Regional appearance after beating Ohio State 15-3 Saturday night. After the win, Coach Dan McDonnell spoke about his love for Muhammad Ali and the Ali Family.

"Lonnie (Muhammad's wife) had someone text me this morning at about 2:30 saying they were thinking of us," McDonnell said, noting how remarkable it was that she had someone reach out even during this dark time with Ali passing away at the age of 74.

McDonnell said Lonnie and Asaad still plan on making the trip if Louisville make the College World Series for the fourth time in program history.