It’s been the longest off season in the history of off seasons. But here we are, a few weeks out from the first tip off of the season.
Today the women’s basketball team hosted its annual tip off luncheon.
There was a different vibe this year. You could feel the excitement and anticipation.
You could also feel the longing for something… Anything to get past the drama that unfolded last week.
Coach Jeff Walz delivered. His flawless speech was inspiring. It gave fans the reassurance we needed, letting fans know he’s either going to retire or get fired at Louisville.
“Look around at what a remarkable crowd we have here again, supporting these young women,” said Walz. “It has been an interesting few weeks, but these women have stayed focused, taking care of business in the classroom, and working extremely hard on the basketball court.”
Here are four takeaways from the luncheon:
1. This team is stacked.
- Myisha Hines-Allen is in the best shape of her playing career. Hines-Allen has been one of the most physical players in the game. She had speed, accuracy. Yet, somehow she’s going to be better this season… That’s scary.
- Asia Durr is fresh off a summer of representing Team USA. Durr was Team USA’s leading scorer in Tokyo for the U-23 Four Nations Tournament. She was also invited to the Team USA Training Camp to compete against 25 WNBA players and four other collegiate players for a spot on the national team. She played along side some of the games greatest, such as Sue Bird.
- Sam Fuehring noticeable looks different. Gone is the lanky girl. She has been replaced with a woman who looks like she could go out and win the Kentucky Muscle body building competition. She was already one of the most physical players on the court. Now she has the strength to battle in the paint. This can only translate to success on the court.
- Arica Carter is back. AC spent last season on the bench next to Coach Walz. She learned another facet of the game. Coach Walz joked that AC was 0-of-18 from three her freshman season. Now, she’s become a reliable shooter.
2. This team is in shape. Durr spoke about it during her Q & A session at the luncheon. She said the team has been running… A LOT.
“The hard work in the preseason has paid off and everyone is just so excited for this year. I can’t wait to get started,” Durr told fans.
Looking at the women, they look leaner, stronger. Two qualities that translate well on the court.
3. This team has all the pieces to make a deep run in March. Again, the unforgiving schedule will be an advantage come post season. Out of the gate, Louisville faces Ohio State in Columbus. The Cards will matchup against six non-conference opponents that reached the NCAA Tournament just a season ago, five of them before conference play begins. There are no off games this season.
4. From strength of players to strength of schedule, it’s certainly going to be a fantastic season. You do NOT want to miss out. Go to GoCards.com/WBBTickets to secure your seats today.
Check out some of the sights and sounds from today’s luncheon below.
