Merissah Russell
Photo Courtesy of @MerissahRussNumber: 13
Height: 5’11
Class: Freshman
Position: Guard
Hometown: Ottawa, Ontario
Ranks:
- 4* Guard
- 29th ranked guard by ESPNW
Awards:
- Member of U17 Canadian Team 2018
- Member of U19 Canadian Team 2019
- Co-MVP of Women’s Bio Steel All-Canadian game
Averaged 6.4ppg and 4.0rpg during FIBA Women’s World Cup
Coach Walz: “She is one of the brightest young stars in Canada’s national team program. She will bring energy, enthusiasm, and a high basketball IQ to our young squad.”
Breakdown: Merissah is a phenomenal two-way player. Russell is an elite level scorer that is also a tenacious defender with an extremely high basketball IQ. Cards fans, you will love the motor and effort that Russell will put out on the floor game after game. Although she is listed as a guard, Merissah is not afraid to mix it up anywhere on the court. If there is a rebound to be had or a loose ball, she’s around it. She will definitely be the sparkplug to this Louisville team as she continues to get better and better at her craft.
My take: Coach Walz is right. Russell will bring a lot to a young roster. Russell has a ton of international experience. Look for Russell to play both the 3 and 4 spot depending on who’s in the game for the Cards. With Russell’s ability to rebound and get the fast break started, I see her playing key minutes if Coach Walz wants to continually use a four guard lineup.
