Louisville women's basketball...Walz, Hines-Allen Talk ACC Tournament -- Wednesday CARDINAL COUPLE

WBB READY FOR ACC TOURNAMENT

Jeff Walz and Myisha Hines-Allen met with the media Tuesday morning to discuss...what else? The upcoming ACC Tournament. They did delve into a few other subjects as well...Walz reminding me that they no longer use chain nets anymore...which, is a shame...they used to make such a neat noise if you were lucky enough to swish one from the deep. 

We have their full comments below for you to listen to...let's review the highights. 


WALZ: THEY'RE AS HEALTHY AS THEY'RE GOING TO GET

Walz answered questions about many different subjects in his nearly 20 minutes interaction with the media. Appearing chipper, in good spirits and not going off on any rants or tangents...he is looking forward to the trip to Conway, SC

On playing the early games...He's in favor of the 11 a.m. tip-off on Thursday...as well as a 11 a.m. match-up against NC State if they get by the winner of the Clemson vs. Virginia Tech contest.  

On his confidence level as a #5 seed. Walz is very confident. The squad is as healthy as it has been, taking out Briahanna Jackson...who will not play in the ACC Tournament. He has a good feeling about the freshmen and his depth...which has been getting a lot of experience lately . 

A first game preference? Walz really doesn't have one. He pointed out that both Virginia Tech and Clemson played them close until the fourth quarter. Virginia Tech is very quick, crafty with the basketball. Clemson has a group of young kids playing with a lot of confidence right now. 

A secondary goal for the tournament. There is and it's being a top four seed in one of the NCAA Regions and being able to host the first and second round games. A second round win over either VT or Clemson is very much need and the further they go, the better their chances of securing home court advantage for the NCAA Tournament. 

Syd's recent play? Coach was very complimentary of several freshmen and mentioned that team had to guard her or she would make them play. He attributes her work ethic, pointing out that she is getting down the court much faster now and creating her shot instead of just watching and waiting. 

LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW: 

COACH WALZ TALKS ACC TOURNAMENT AND CHAIN NETS!

MYISHA TAKES THE MICROPHONE

Hines-Allen spoke with the media shortly after Walz and had the following observations. 

On being Player of the Week in the ACC? She was happy to be recognized for that but pointed out that it was her teammates that made it possible. Without Asia and Mariya's assists, the team's rebounding and recognition it wouldn't happen. It's basically a case of everyone doing their job. 

On playing at Coastal Carolina instead of Greensboro. Hines-Allen has been to the Myrtle Beach area before and it's not any big deal with the change of venue. A smaller arena that's packed full of fan can make a lot of noise, which motivates the players. 

On moving to the "3". The question got a big grin from her and she "loves talking about her move to the guard spot".  It is a big adjustment and the hardest part is learning the plays from that position on the floor. It's also a little practice for her hopes at an WNBA career..where she may not be solely a "4".

On a healthy Asia Durr this year at tournament time. Myisha recognized Asia as the best player on the team but looks at it as everyone giving what they can for the team effort. You give yourself up for the team for the betterment of the team and hope to advance far. As she said..."Mariya had a great freshman year, I had a great sophomore year and now it's Asia turn." 

The sense of urgency this time of year. You have to have it and make sure that the freshmen realize it as well. One loss and you're done. even in the ACC Tournament, where one bad half can knock you out of it...based on the quality of the opposition. 

LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW: 

MYISHA HINES-ALLEN TALKS ACC AND MORE!


Fun stuff with both Tuesday. As you read this, they are in Conway...safe and snuggled into their rooms...awaiting today and the next four days of the tournament. 


DON'T FORGET TO GET YOUR ACC TOURNAMENT PICKS IN BY 1 p.m today  (e.s.t.)


LACROSSE TODAY AGAINST CINCINNATI


6 P.M. is the start time for this one....at the "Ellis" (Louisville Lacrosse Stadium). The Cards were successful in their Florida jaunt and look to extend the win streak to two. 

Head over to give a look....even if it's only to see just how fast Hannah Koloski is. We're guessing there might even be a food truck on site...they get some good ones in the lot for Lacrosse...so go celebrate "Hump Day" the Lacrosse way! 


paulie
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