No need to circle the wagon yet on Louisville WBB...Volleyball gets two ACC honors -- Tuesday Cardinal Couple

SEASON OPENING LOSS NOT THAT BAD A THING

Although the University of Louisville women's basketball squad took an opening game 75-71 loss to California in the KFC YUM! Center Sunday afternoon, there's no need to wring your hands and worry and get worked up. The battle has just begun.

After all, there are still 29 regular season games to play before the ACC Tournament and there were enough bright spots out on Denny Crum Court Sunday to foster believe that this will become a very good team this season.

Losing five seniors is never easy. It takes time for a young team to jell...and, as an example...Cal looked very average in their season opener at Austin Peay and improved greatly in their second game of the year. There's no reason to think that the Cards can't follow suit and address and improve on some of the shortcomings that led to a loss to a team that, in my humble opinion, is a top 25 squad. 

Jeff Walz and his staff know what they need to work on. They are well aware that rebounding needs to be improved. They realize that turnovers are great but production after them is even more important. They'll address the issues and the players will learn. 

What is exciting about this squad is the overall speed and quickness, a defense that looked better than I thought they would at this point of the season and multiple players who could average double digits as the season rolls on. 

A team leader? Briahanna Jackson certainly tossed her hat into the ring after her 21 point, six steals, three assists and one turnover effort Sunday. The hustle, desire, ability and creation is all in place for her. Mariya Moore is looking good with six threes and added 20 points, seven rebounds and four assists.  Asia Durr and Taja Cole were both very impressive in their debut. Arica Carter led the team with six assists and snagged five rebounds...showing improved skills over last year. 

It's comparable to renovating a house. Some aspects of it look pretty good. Some rooms may need some work and renovation. The yard may look great and the gutters and driveway need work. Eventually you get there. It takes a little time. 

When Walz has all the players on the same page, going at 100% and locked into the game plan...Louisville women's basketball is a thing of beauty. He has the troops, the talent and the details will fall into place. Having six days to prepare for WKU is like having two aces in the hole and two showing.  It's going to be hard to beat this hand...

Have faith and patience in the process. Your coaching staff didn't get this program to where it's at because of their singing ability. They'll handle this... 

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CLARK, SAUER GET ACC ACCOLADES

Louisville Volleyball swept their Florida foray with wins over Miami and FSU last week and also had the ACC Volleyball Player of the Week and Freshman of the Week bestowed upon them.

Middle blocker/hitter Tess Clark was essential in both victories and got the Player of the Week award. Molly Sauer continues to shine at libero and was named Freshman of the Week. 

Two parts in a machine that is rolling right now for Anne Kordes' squad. 15-1 in ACC play and sitting on top of the conference with a two game lead and a two-game home-stand staring Friday when Clemson comes into town....followed by Georgia Tech. The Wide Net Cards swept these two on a road trip earlier this season. 

If you haven't been to the KFC YUM! Center to witness the thrill and excitement of Louisville Volleyball, you owe it to yourself to get down there and enjoy it. 

(Just look out for Worldwide charging up and down the aisles leading cheers...)

paulie
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