Pat Kelsey took stage for his first press conference since the start of practices, alongside the first availability for players where seniors Reyne Smith, Chucky Hepburn, and J’Vonne Hadley spoke.
The one thing that Kelsey and the three seniors are preaching to fans with heavy confidence is that this season will be very different than seasons past.
Attention to detail is something guard Reyne Smith said Coach Kelsey is particular about and makes sure each rep is being used to its highest potential.
“There’s times when we kinda see him… he’ll kinda run down and lay down and point to the exact spot he wants you to catch it… He just brings so much energy…” Smith said.
In terms of defense, forward J’Vonne Hadley is confident they will cause trouble for opposing offenses once they have time to gel.
“…Defense, I mean we’re gonna be a problem, off rip I’m already knowin’…. We have length, we’re versatile, we’re athletic, we have a little bit of everything…. It’s gonna be a problem for anybody we play, for sure.” Said Hadley.
As an entirely new team, The team’s upcoming Bahamas trip will be key in building the team chemistry.
Four hours a week is what a team is permitted for basketball use, including film study and practices. Eight hours are permitted including strength & conditioning.
On a foreign trip, a team is allowed to have ten full practice days on top of those four hours.
Every minute will be used to help build the “power of the unit” as Kelsey says.
UofL will begin their trip to the Bahamas in late July and play two games between July 28 and August 2.
