MYISHA, MYSTICS TO GO 3-0 -- FRIDAY CARDINAL COUPLE

HINES-ALLEN HAS 17 IN WASHINGTON'S 89-71 WIN. 

Last night's showdown between 2-0 Washington and 2-0 Seattle last night was hyped as a contest between the WNBA's best offense (Washington) and the top defense (Seattle). The Mystics showed early on that they were a multi-player, multi-talented squad and jumped all over Seattle's defense early. To use a phrase, DC threw an umbrella of threes over any Storm front.

Going up 12-2 in the early going, the Mystics were connecting from the outside. Although Myisha Hines-Allen wasn't the architect of the early offense, she was solid on the defense and doing other key things like creating assists and grabbing rebounds that helped the Mystics roll out to a first quarter 21-14 lead and a half-time 50-32 advantage. The Storm had been reduced to a weak front that was dying out, in meteorological lingo.  

The Storm seemed to be a step slow on defense, Sue Bird wasn't flying and the Seattle run never came. 

In the second half, the emphasis slightly changed and Washington turned Hines-Allen loose inside. She ended up punishing the Seattle front line for 17 points and grabbed seven rebounds. The Storm probably should have asked Siri "how do you stop Washington?"...because whatever they were trying wasn't the answer   Just how good are Hines-Allen and Emma Meeserman inside for Washington? The score stood at 71-50 after three and Seattle turned to the bench to see if they could fire up a rally. That seemed to help, the Storm cutting the lead to 14 with 4:40 left in the contest at 74-62. 

Panic time for the Mystics? Nope, didn't happen, nothing to worry about. Washington owned the rest of the final quarter 15-9 and got the "W". 

Not enough can be said about Myisha's all-around game last night.  We watched her as "the enforcer" during her time at Louisville and she's re-assumed the role for DC. With the Chicago Sky falling in a close one to the Minnesota Lynx last night, Washington is now the only undefeated team (3-0) in the WNBA. 

As Hines-Allen left the court last night, someone or something caught her attention and the viewers got to see that beautiful Hines-Allen smile. She has earned the right to smile and be happy about "life in the wubble" so far. Let's hope the smiles keep coming for "Mooks".  She's put in the work and deserves to reap the rewards. 

So far, Myisha is the fifth leading scorer in the league with a 20.0 points per game average. 

Washington takes on the Chicago Sky next on Saturday.

********************************************************************************

In other WNBA action, the Minnesota Lynx knocked off Chicago in a thriller 83-81. The L.A. Sparks kept the Connecticut Sun winless with a 81-76 win.  

Tonight, Kylee Shook and Jazmine Jones look for their first WNBA win when they face Atlanta. This 6 p.m. game is on NBA TV, so if that's part of your cable, dish or Internet subscription package, have fun and enjoy it. Is it just me, but do the Liberty need to get Sabrina Ionescu to focus a little more on her teammates instead of trying to set scoring records? I mean, sure, she's great and all that but the Liberty are 0-2, so she can't be all that effective. Still a rookie, though. Plenty of time to adapt and put the needs of the team in front of the needs of the one. . 

 The late game (10 p.m.) has Angel and the Las Vegas Aces against Phoenix. This one will be on CBS Sports Network. I'm redy for some more McCoughtry magic, how about you? 

Good luck to our Cardinal WBB greats tonight!  

Have a fun Friday. 

paulie

xxxxx

  

 

Fall Sports Are A "Go" -- THURSDAY CARDINAL COUPLE

ACC Fall Sports Are A "Go"

We have our answer.  After speculating for weeks on end if we would have a season or not the ACC made their decision yesterday.

All fall sports are happening.

For UofL, this means we will see volleyball, field hockey, women's soccer, women's cross country, men's cross country, men's soccer, and football.

Football and Olympic Sports (basically everything else that isn't football or men's basketball) have separate guidelines and restrictions.

Olympic sports may begin competition on Thursday, Sept. 10.  Any scheduled games and matches prior to that will be cancelled or postponed.

Conference play has been limited to what the NCAA considers the minimum amount of conference games to be permitted: field hockey (6), volleyball (10), m/w soccer (6).  If they choose to play more conference games outside of that it will not count towards the conference record.  Think of it when softball plays other ACC teams in early season tournaments, but those results are counted in the conference standings.

If schools choose to add non-conference games it is entirely up to each school.  Opponents must meet ACC medical standards.

ACC Championships have also been decided as followed: field hockey at Duke (Nov. 5, 6, 8), women's soccer at Wake Forest (Nov 6 & 8; only top four teams qualify), men's soccer at Wake Forest (Nov. 13 & 15; only top four teams qualify), no volleyball championship, which is normal.

Football is receiving an 11-game schedule with a lengthened 10-game conference schedule.  In the past, they played a 12-game schedule with eight conference games.  The sole non-conference game must be against an opponent instate.  Pending the SEC's decision, it's a safe bet that the non-conference game will be the Governor's Cup game against Kentucky.

If fans and media will be allowed at games is still uncertain.  Based of the ACC's announcement yesterday, I believe it will be up to each school to decide.  If media are allowed at games it is hard to see the chance of any type of post-game press conferences with players or coaches, due to the social distancing aspect.

Once we know each team's set schedule we will have plenty to talk about and give previews and predictions.

As long as all members of the teams can stay safe and healthy then I'm down with fall sports.  If we see an issue of COVID-19 outbreaks amount student-athletes or staff then we may need to reevaluate our options.

WNBA Results

The WNBA played three games yesterday.  The first game, which featured no former UofL players, had the Fever taking down the Mercury 106-100

.

In game two, the Liberty squared off against the Wings.  Although the Liberty dropped to 0-2 with the 93-80 loss, we did see some production from the Cards.  Jazmine Jones, who sat out the season opener with a sprained ankle, logged her first professional minutes and scored her first career points on a short-range jumper.

Jaz finished the night with eight points, one rebound, one steal, and two fouls (one technical- questionable call).  Kylee Shook didn't have a hot night, but did pull in a pair of rebounds.

There was a WNBA record, with 10 rookies logging playing time in that game.

The final game of the night was Angel McCoughtry and her new team -- the Las Vegas Aces -- against her old team -- the Atlanta Dream. 

The "dream" turned out to be nightmare for Atlanta. Las Vegas took a 100-70 win. Angel had 12 points and seven rebounds for Las Vegas, who had no trouble in finding scorers against the porous Dream defense. McCoughtry was one of five double figure scorers for Las Vegas, who was led by A'ja Wilson's two points. 

The Aces built a 47-35 first half lead and increased upon that in the final 20 minutes. Both teams are now 1-1 in the young season.

Remember to continue to stay safe and stay healthy.

Happy Thursday and Go Cards!

Jared

Mystics, Hines-Allen go to 2-0 in win over Sun -- WEDNESDAY CARDINAL COUPLE

HINES-ALLEN GOES FOR 16 IN D.C. WIN

Positive stories in 2020 haven't been very plentiful lately, but Myisha Hines-Allen is rapidly becoming one. 

She scored 16 points and grabbed eight rebounds in the Washington Mystics 94-89 win over the Connecticut Sun last night in the "wubble" in Bradenton, FL. 

Things started well for Hines-Allen and DC, jumping out to an early 26-20 first quarter lead. The Mystics were hustling, Hines-Allen one of three Mystics who had a steal in the first ten minutes. F

Fifth-year player Aerial Powers was having a big night for the defending WNBA champs also. Powers ended up leading the Mystics with 27 points.

Connecticut, however, wasn't ready to head back to their bus and leave the sound-stage this early. The Sun got hot and, aided by nine DC turnovers and 13 fouls, gained a 52-48 lead as the teams reached halftime.  

The Mystics needed a big start to the third quarter and they got it. Back-to-back threes from Powers and Hines-Allen early in the quarter pushed Washington to a 59-56 lead and DC still was up 76-71 as the third quarter ended. 

Using the "if it worked once - let's try it again" philosophy, Washington came out hot again to start the fourth quarter and built the lead to 15. The Sun was not ready to go down yet, though and behind DeWanna Bonner and Alyssa Thomas battled back to get within two with 30 seconds to play. DC got a bit of luck when Thomas missed a layup to tie it and the Sun was slow to foul Washington's Leilani Mitchell who came up with the loose ball. She eventually hit a free throw and a late bucket gave Washington the five-point victory. 

Hines-Allen was a force from the opening tip....taking the defenders off the dribble, working the inside-out game well, getting steals, nailing threes and leading the Mystics in rebounding. Back in her Louisville playing days, we used to tease Myisha that she was really a guard trapped in a power forward's body. Maybe we had something there...

Washington is now 2-0 and returns to action Thursday night when they'll face Seattle in a 6 p.m. match. ESPN will have the contest. 


*************************************************************************************************************


Wednesday Night WNBA actions features three more Cardinals in back-to-back games.

Action starts at 7 p.m. when Phoenix and Indiana both try to get their first win of the young season. At 8 p.m., the New York Liberty (Kylee Shook, Jazmine Jones) take on the Dallas Wings on CBS Sports Network. Closing out Wednesday action, Las Vegas (Angel McCoughtry) faces the 1-0 Atlanta Dream.  

Angel goes against her old teammates in the 10 p.m. showdown and this one will be on the CBS Sports Network as well. You may want to catch a nap this afternoon so you can stay up for both these televised games that feature Louisville WBB Cardinal greats. 

Have a wonderful WNBA Wednesday!


paulie
xxxxx

Softball Adds Makayla Hurst -- Shorter Seasons -- TUESDAY CARDINAL COUPLE

Softball Adds Makayla Hurst

Holly Aprile has been busy lately.  The Cardinals have added their second transfer in as many weeks.

Makayla Hurst joins the Cards from Utah.  The rising junior is a first baseman and designated player, as well as adds some power at the plate on offense.

Before the season was cut short due to the pandemic, Hurst's Utes were 14-4 and ranked 20th in a couple polls.  She was 2-for-7 at the plate with three RBI's and two walks.

"Makayla is a determined and confident young woman that impressed me with her conviction and strong desire to be a Cardinal," said Coach Aprile.  "Makayla will bring both power and invaluable experience to our team, in addition to being someone who shares our core vales and understands what it means to be a great teammate.  We are really excited to have her on board."

The Cards were 10-13 and had won four of the last five games before the season was cut short.  They scored three runs or less in 14 of their 23 games.

Makayla will add missing power at the plate and can help knock runners in or put the ball over the fence.  She will also help fill a vacancy at first base.

NCAA Approves Shorter Seasons

The NCAA D1 Council Coordination Committee announced yesterday that they are granting a blanket waiver to reduce the minimum number of contests by 50% for all fall sports outside of football.

This waiver allows field hockey, volleyball, women's soccer, and men's soccer will be able to have a season without scrambling to add extra games.  This can also limit exposure and lower risks with travel.

Most likely, we will see UofL teams focus mainly on ACC schedules with a few nearby teams on the schedule, pending schools' and conferences' decisions on their respective sports.

It is a step in the right direction to allow schools to still have a fall sports season.  The ACC Board of Directors is still set to meet soon to make a decision on all ACC schools.

If we do see fall sports play we are still unsure on what limitations we will see for fans and media.  We will continue to be patient to see what will happen and be prepared to make the most of whatever situation is thrown our way.

Continue to stay safe and stay healthy.

Happy Tuesday and Go Cards!

Jared

She's back....McCoughtry goes for 25 in Aces loss to Sky -- MONDAY CARDINAL COUPLE

ANGEL McCOUGHTRY RETURNS TO COURT

Cardinals WBB great Angel McCoughtry did not play last year in the WNBA. She suffered a knee injury in August 2018 that ended her season. The former Atlanta Dream superstar hurt herself playing against the Las Vegas Aces.

Let's hop in the Paulie time machine and fast forward to late July 2020. Guess who Angel plays for now? That's right, the Las Vegas Aces. Those same Las Vegas Aces she got injured against. Those Aces that eliminated the Chicago Sky from the WNBA playoffs in 2019 with the miracle half-court shot from Dearica Hamby as time expired. 

The WNBA has a sense of flair and dramatics, it seems. Who was Las Vegas' first opponent for 2020? Why, no other than the Chicago Sky. 

The two squads matched up again on WNBA opening weekend yesterday and Angel wasted no time in showing she's back, she's healthy and she hasn't lost any of her on-court skills. 
McCoughtry went for 25 points and grabbed eight rebounds in Las Vegas' narrow 88-86 loss to the Chicago Sky in the "wubble" yesterday. 

Another day, another Louisville Cardinal WBB great goes off on the competition. 


This was a tough loss for the Aces. They led 86-77 with 4-1/2 minutes left in the fourth quarter. Chicago proved to be the better team in that final part of the fourth quarter, though, and the Sky's 11-0 run to end the game was punctuated with Allie Quigley sinking a contested three-pointer with 15 seconds to play to give the 88-86 win to Chi-Town. The Aces had two attempts to tie or take the lead after that but could not score. 

As my wife joked during the run..."It looks like the sky has opene up over Las Vegas. 

(Groan)

Angel likes her teammate A'ja Wilson, it seems, who toiled for South Carolina in college. Wilson had 22 points and 11 rebounds and was the beneficiary of several McCoughtry assists for buckets.  

So, after opening weekend we see two Cardinals up at the top of the scoring stats in the league. Only Monique Billings, second year pro who played for UCLA and now suits up for Atlanta, out-scored Myisha Hines-Allen (27 points) and McCoughtry....ho are the second and third-leading scorers after opening weekend. Billings put up 30 yesterday in Atlanta's 105-95 win over Dallas. 

Atlanta was probably the worst team in the WNBA last year, without Angel. It looks like they may have found a scorer in Billings to replace her, though, and it's a franchise and a city that could stand some good news. 

In other Sunday action, the Minnesota Lynx came back and downed the Connecticut Sun 77-69. 

It's so wonderful to see Angel back on the court, hitting that mid-range jumper, showing her blazing speed and quickness and facilitating her teammates. She's still got it, Las Vegas Aces future opponents. Get ready for it, it's gonna happen! 

We're very proud...here at Cardinal Couple...of our Cardinals that are in the WNBA and hope that they'll have great success in the league this season. We'll follow them and report to you on their successes as the league progresses.

The WNBA may be one of the few women's sports around" this fall, who knows?  2020 has been weird, but...we can take some pride, joy and get excited about Angel, Myisha, Kylee and Jaz as this season progresses. Yes, we miss Asia Durr but here's hoping she recovers fully and can return to hoops after she does. 

Sometimes, a layoff can be beneficial. Ask Angel McCoughtry. 

Now, let's see what we can do about getting Arica Carter, Asia Taylor and Sam Fuehring back on rosters....right? Let's go even further back and see if Shoni Schimmel can still dazzlemthe league like she did herr first year. 



Have a marvelous Monday!


paulie
xxxxx

WNBA Season Opening - Sunday Cardinal Couple

WNBA Gets Underway

Washington Mystics

WNBA fans, say hello to Myisha Hines-Allen.  Mooks, a nickname she uses in her social media handles, has been at the front and center of social media in the Wubble leading up to the beginning of the WNBA season.  She demonstrated that she has no intention of stepping back in the shadows on the court.

With Elena Della Donne and Tina Charles not being on the court for the Washington Mystics (Della Donne is still recovering from back issues, and Tina Charles was granted an exemption from the season for medical purposes), the runway was cleared for Hines-Allen to take off and shine.

Myisha dropped 14 points, in the first quarter, and had a career high 22 points by halftime.  She would go on to complete a double-double in the game with 27 points and 10 rebounds.  She went 3-4 beyond the arc...which is a new element to her game since her time at UofL...and 11-17 from the field overall.

It's fair to point out that this is only Myisha's 2nd career WNBA start.  The Mystics have lost some significant contributors to their championship run from last year, and while the season is just barely underway, this may be a case of reloading instead of rebuilding.

New York Liberty

Other Cards in the Pros were in the league opening game, the NY Liberty vs the Seattle Storm.  The
Storm, lead by Breanna Stewart, Jewell Lloyd, and Sue Bird would be victorious over the Liberty, 87-71.

The Liberty sport a trio of Cardinals on their roster, with Kylee Shook and Jazmine Jones being the newcomers, and the active players, on the team while Asia Durr has been granted a medical exemption for the season.

Only Kylee Shook would see action, with a report that Jazmine Jones is nursing a bit of an ankle sprain.

Shook played almost 12 minutes of game time, scored the first field goal of her WNBA career, and pulled down a rebound.

Layshia Clarendon was the clear leader for the Liberty with 20 points, while the heralded rookie Sabrina Ionescu put in 12 points.

Stewie's 18 points would lead the Storm to the win, Lloyd got 14, and Sue Bird contributed 11.

Las Vegas Aces

Angel McCoughtry is the other UofL alumna playing in the WNBA.  They weren't on the court yesterday, with their season opener against the Chicago Sky being today at 3pm EDT.  You can catch this one on ESPN streaming.

Some of the other will known names on the roster for the Aces are Liz Cambage, Kayla McBride, Kelsey Plum, and A'ja Wilson.  Plum is not active as she is still recovering from a torn Achilles tendon last season.

Who to watch with the Sky?  The always entertaining Stefanie Dolson, rookie Ruthy Hebard, and a whole gang of guards; Diamond Deshields, Allie Quigley, and Courtney Vandersloot.

Cardinal Couple Radio Hour

A slim line-up for the CCRH yesterday, with only Paulie and I able to make the call.  Case was off
again working on preparing for the Professional Engineering exam, while Jared was back at the financial institution making sure people were wearing masks.

We previewed the WNBA action and shared a bit about life in the Wubble.  We wrapped up a bit about the FGCL and the success of Jordyn Wolfe and Paige Schindler in Bradenton.  I was able to bring out a little bit of extra information about Tess Clark heading to Alcombendas Volleyball in Spain.

We kept it a little short so folks switch over to the Liberty game starting at noon.  Check it out below.

JMcA

ACC Network Takeover -- SATURDAY CARDINAL COUPLE

ACC Network Takeover

(Case was unavailable for the write today so I gladly stepped in to help out).

We still have no idea on when or if we will see live UofL sports, but we did hear good news if you want to see some of the best UofL games played again.

Mark your calendars down for August 1.  The Cards are taking over for the day.

The ACC Network will air six different Louisville games over the past decade beginning at 10:00 a.m.


Here is the entire lineup:


10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.: Men's Soccer vs Georgetown (Sept. 24, 2019)
12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.: Baseball vs Indiana (May 14, 2019)
3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Softball vs Florida State (April 8, 2019)
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.: Women's Basketball vs Notre Dame (Jan. 11, 2018)
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.: Men's Basketball vs Pitt (Jan. 17, 2009)
9:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.: Football vs Mississippi State (Dec. 30, 2019)

We see a split of men's sports and women's sports, but we will focus on the two women's games.

Softball vs Florida State

Most of us still remember the Monday night walk-off against the #3 Seminoles to claim the series.  It
was Florida State's first conference series loss since 2012.

The Cards trailed 9-7 as they headed to the bottom of the seventh inning.  Rebecca Chung's three-run double with two outs led the Cards to a victory on ESPN and a full house at Ulmer Stadium.



Women's Basketball vs Notre Dame

Ah, one of my favorite women's basketball games.  The #3 Cards smoked the #2 Irish at the KFC Yum! Center, 100-67.

Like the softball game previously mentioned, this game was aired on ESPN.  What most people remember is Asia Durr's three-point buzzer-beater at the end of the third quarter.

That was one of the biggest jaw-dropping moments in Louisville sports history.

These are some games that you do not want to miss so set your DVR or have an alarm set to tune in.

Cardinal Couple Podcast Hour

After a fortunate series of several weeks off I'm back to banking this Saturday.  Case is occupied with
his exams and will be also out this week.

That leaves Paulie and Worldwide to hold down the fort this week.  Tune in to see what they'll talk about, although by default, we already have a winner for the quiz this week, if Paulie chooses to go that route.

My guess is it'll be a shorter-than-normal show, with the New York Liberty starting at noon on ESPN. You don't want to miss Jaz and Kylee's WNBA debut !!

Check it out on the Cardinal Couple Radio Hour on You Tube.

Happy Saturday and Go Cards!

Jared

WNBA Begins Saturday -- FRIDAY CARDINAL COUPLE

FOUR CARDINAL WBB STARS TAKE TO THE COURT THIS WEEKEND

For those of us who enjoy and follow the WNBA pursuits, the wait is almost over. Opening weekend begins tomorrow for the WNBA -- with three games on Saturday and three on Sunday. 


Kicking off the action are the New York Liberty vs. the Seattle Storm. This match-up included two Cardinal WBB greats in Kylee Shook and Jazmine Jones. They'll be a part of a Liberty squad that tries to get an opening game win against 2018 WNBA MVP Brenna Stewart and her Seattle Storm teammates. The contest is slated to be shown on ESPN and a noon start time (ET). The Liberty are without Asia Durr but have #1 draft pick Sabrina Ionescu.


Next up, at 3 p.m. on ABC a west-coast battle in the IMG Academy "dome" between the L.A. Sparks and the Phoenix Mercury. You want All-Star talent on the court? How about Candace Parker, Nneka Ogwumike, Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner on the court. 

The final Saturday contest will put the Indiana Fever up against the defending champion Washington Mystics. Cardinal Myisha Hines-Allen plays for the Mystics. Game coverage switches to CBS Sports Network and a 5 p.m. tip-off is scheduled.


The remaining six teams in the WNBA get it started on Sunday. 

The noon game puts 2019 WNBA runner-ups Connecticut against the Minnesota Lynx. This one is an ESPN game.

Our Angel McCoughtry is up after that, as she and the Las Vegas Aces face the Chicago Sky. You can follow the Aces and Angel on ABC. 3 p.m. is the schedule start time for this one.

Closing out weekend action is the Dallas Wings vs. Atlanta Dream. We go back to CBS Sports Network for the finale and 5 p.m. is the scheduled start.  

Certainly, the WNBA appreciates the televised coverage, but one has to slightly shake one's head at the "cover-all" bingo approach with bouncing back and forth between the various networks and channels. Advertising revenues are certainly appreciated  by the league, though, since the fan base isn't a factor in the season yet...so I guess we should be happy that there is coverage. Just getting to watch some exciting basketball far outweighs having to have the remote handy. 

Best of luck to our Cardinals and their squads in the games and we'll certainly miss seeing Asia Durr perform for the Liberty. We wish Asia the best as she recoups, recovers and readies herself for a return to the hardwood after contracting COVID-19. 

Here's hoping all goes well in this new experiment for the league.  WNBA Tip-Off 2020 is one we'll probably remember for a long time because of the nature, circumstances, situation and precautions -- at least the league isn't cancelled or being put off until winter. 2020 has been weird. 

Like you, I'll miss the fan bases at the games. But, with the way things are these days, it's just something we have to get used to until things get better. 

Here's a fun thought to ponder. 

If you could build a WNBA team of former Cardinal WBB players, who would be on it? 11 UofL players you'd want on that roster? 

 I'll offer Asia Taylor, Asia Durr, Arica Carter, Angel McCoughtry, Kylee Shook, Sam Fuehring, Myisha Hines-Allen, Jazmine Jones, Jazz Covington, Monique Reid and Candyce Bingham. Your thoughts? 



Leave your roster in the comments section. 

Have a fantastic Friday!


paulie
xxxxx 

Walz Top 100 WBB Influential People -- Tess Clark Pro Contract -- THURSDAY CARDINAL COUPLE

Jeff Walz Listed in Top 100 People in WBB

Silver Waves Media recently released their top 100 influential people in women's college basketball.  To no surprise, Jeff Walz's name was a part of that list.

The list features those involved with women's college basketball from a few different aspects including analysts, scouts, and coaches.

"In just 13 years, head coach Jeff Walz has turned the Louisville women's basketball program into a national powerhouse.  Posting only one losing season during his time, Walz has made the NCAA Tournament in 12 out of the 13 years, including three Final Four appearances.  In just his second season, Walz advanced his Louisville team to the national championship game, which was the first in program history.  Prior to Louisville, Walz helped turn Maryland into a powerhouse as an assistant and won a national championship with the team in 2006.  His 360-103 win-loss record as a head coach has him on a fast track to the 600 Club, and he will be a Hall of Fame coach before it's all said [and] done."

Walz joins the ranks of other big names such as Geno Auriemma, Muffet McGraw, Kim Mulkey, and Dawn Staley.

Muffet McGraw (formerly at Notre Dame), Kara Lawson (Duke), Niele Ivey (Notre Dame), Quentin Hillsman (Syracuse), Sue Semrau (Florida State), and Wes Moore (NC State) are the other ACC coaches listed.

Add this to the list of honors and awards Jeff Walz has racked up during his time at the helm in Louisville.  He has always been a big advocate of women's basketball at all levels and has spoken out about its lesser treatment compared to its men counterparts.

We, at Caardinal Couple, salute Walz and his staff for his accomplishments at UofL.


Tess Clark Signs Pro Contract

Some positive news in the world of sports came out this week when we learned of Tess Clark signing a professional contract with Club Voleibol Alconbendas (Spain).

The former UofL volleyball star has spent her professional career playing overseas in France and Spain, but had to quickly exit the country to return to the United States when COVID-19 first broke out.

Clark played for the Cards from 2014-17.  She is a member of the 1,000-kill club, and is ranked 21st in NCAA D1 history in career hitting percentage.  She also ranks 8th is school history block assists with 359.  She ranks 5th in school history in hitting percentage.

We wish Tess Clark the best of lucky as she continues her professional volleyball career and will continue to eagerly watch her career.


Still No Answer


We still are uncertain with fall sports, and until the ACC holds their meeting later this month all we can do is speculate.  We see new schools and athletic conferences come out each day either postponing indefinitely or cancelling fall sports altogether.

If we do see fall sports happen, we will continue to cover those sports and all the joy and excitement with them in a safe manner.  If we do not see fall sports, we will continue to provide up-to-date information on anything UofL women's sports related as we anticipate sports in the future.

Happy Thursday and Go Cards!

Jared

A CLASSIC --RIVER MOCS 10 -- MANATEE 9 -- WEDNESDAY CARDINAL COUPLE

SQUEEZE BATTLE BACK, FALL JUST SHORT IN SLUGFEST

A very enjoyable two and a half hours of softball yesterday in the championship game of the FGCL Tournament, where the teams combined for 24 hits, 19 runs and more twists, turns, plot changes and excitement than an Alfred Hitchcock classic. 

It was #1 vs. #2 at Lakewood Ranch and it provided plenty of drama -- this 10-9 win by Myakka City. If you're a fan of precise pitching and spectacular fielding, this wasn't the game for you -- but if you're a fan of "powerball softball" it's certainly worth your time to watch a replay of it. If you missed the live stream of it yesterday on You Tube. I have a link for the rebroadcast below: 

MANATEE SQUEEZE VS MYAKKA CITY RIVER MOCS

This showdown started out very one-sided. Myakka City could do no wrong at the plate, the Squeeze was having trouble in the circle, on the field and at the plate. The River Mocs jumped to an early 8-0 lead after two innings and a run-rule contest looked like a real possibility. In wasn't Manatee starting pitcher Jenna Green's day, after a wonderful 9-1 season in the circle as the Squeeze's ace hurler. 

Drama reared its head in the bottom of the second. Starting River Mocs pitcher and MVP of the league Mack Leonard came to bat in the inning with her squad up 4-0 and reached first base after getting plunked by a pitch. She tried to advance to second on a subsequent ground ball, but was forced out at second. Then, in something you rarely see in softball, she was tossed from the game by the field umpire for interference with Manatee second baseman Stormy Kotzelnick. Usually you see an umpire warning in a case like this. Was something said by Leonard that caused the toss? Regardless...

Myakka City had lost their pitching ace. 

At first, it didn't seem to phase the River Mocs, they plated four more runs in the second, but Manatee (who had managed just one hit off Leonard in two innings of pitching) took advantage of the change in the circle. The Squeeze scored two runs in the third and added four more in the fifth inning. Meanwhile, Kenna Wilkey had come in to pitch for Manatee and was throwing a shutout for the Squeeze in the circle and Manatee had roared back to make it a 8-6 game.

"Uncle Mo" was in the Manatee dugout and Myakka City needed a response. 

The River Mocs got a solo home run in the bottom of the sixth inning off Wilkey but Manatee came to the plate in the top of the sixth and went right back to work. Meagan Ricks drew a walk off struggling Myakka City pitcher K. Hobbs. Cardinal Paige Schindler beat out an infield single and Abi Stuart singled to right, Schindler getting forced out on a very close play at second. That set the stage for Manatee left fielder Jordyn Kadlub.

She lifted a fly ball to left field that cleared the fence. A three-run homer tied the contest at 9-9. The Manatee miracle comeback had come full circle. Cardinal Jordyn Wolfe did her best to keep the run production going by reaching base after getting hit by a Hobbs full count pitch, but Wolfe was left stranded at second. 

This was a game you didn't want to see end, but, sadly it did in the next "at bats" for each squad. The River Mocs plated their 10th run of the day in the bottom of the sixth -- benefiting from a hit-by-pitch and single. 10-9. 

Could Manatee remain productive in the top of the seventh?

The inning started well, with Nikki Cuchran belting a lead-off double to center. But...a strike out, fly out to center and ground out failed to get the tying run home and the River Mocs had pulled out the win. 

Huge props to Manatee. It looked like curtains after two innings, but, this team never gave up the fight or the spirit all season long and that proved true again in the their final game. Would it have been different if Leonard hadn't been tossed for the River Mocs? We'll never know, obviously, but -- dealing in reality -- this was a game it was sad to actually have to declare a winner and loser in. 

Both teams gave it their all. 

For the Cardinals players in the contest, Jordyn Wolfe had a sparkling game, going two for three at the plate, reaching base three times and getting an RBI and scoring a run. Paige Schindler was also productive, going one for three at the plate. 

On the season, Wolfe batted .367 in the 23 games she played for Manatee. She had seven doubles, one triple, scored 15 runs and drove in seven. Schindler came on strong at the end of the schedule as the Squeeze designated hitter and batted .400 in 13 games. She had two home runs, three doubles, scored four runs and drove in 11. 

In a time where active sports have been scare, this league, these teams gave us something to write about, discuss, root for and debate. Wolfe and Schindler, two outstanding student-athletes, got the chance to continue their careers and have some fun in a competitive situation. We're proud of them here at Cardinal Couple and I guarantee the Cardinal softball coaches, staff and other players are, as well. 

We'll give them a little time and then see if we can line up interviews with the dynamic duo. 

It's sad to see this competitive summer league end. But, what a game to end it with! 

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

paulie
xxxxx

Swimming and Diving Suspended -- Squeeze Advance to Championship -- TUESDAY CARDINAL COUPLE

Swimming and Diving Suspended Following COVID-19

Big news came from the UofL campus yesterday when the announcement came that a two-week suspension of the swimming and diving program following a COVID-19 outbreak.

Three members of the program tested positive, although names and their involvement with the program were not released in accordance with HIPAA.

UofL began the suspension on Saturday, July 18, and they are expected to resume on Saturday, Aug. 1.  All proper procedures and protocol are being taken, and all members will have to retest and have negative results before rejoining the program.

This is the second program to run into COVID-19 related issues.  The men's basketball program ran into the same situation two weeks ago.

Although we hope to see this as the final case on campus there is a chance we will see more programs have similar issues in the coming weeks, especially when they play other opponents or travel out of town. If that happens at all. 2020 has been interesting.


Manatee Squeeze Advance to Championship


The Manatee Squeeze won their FGCL Tournament playoff opener against Fast Pitch U, 13-1 in five innings yesterday.

Cardinal softball student-athletes Jordyn Wolfe and Paige Schindler saw action and recorded multiple at bats.  Both players reached base safely at least once and either scored or recorded an RBI.

Stream Live Tampa was airing the game live through Twitch, Youtube, Facebook, Periscope and Twitter.  I managed to tune in as they headed to the bottom of the fourth with the Squeeze leading 5-1.  Between a trio of errors and a plethora of hits, the Squeeze added another eight runs.  They shut down Fast Pitch U in the top of the fifth inning to take the mercy rule victory.

Jenna Greene dominated the circle in the win with a five-inning, 11 strikeout performance from the Presbyterian College pitcher.

The win advanced them to the semifinals against the 6-seed Square Up Academy (SUA) Pioneers, who upset 3-seed Bradenton Slice.

In their second game, the Squeeze faced the Pioneers.  The Squeeze took the win, 11-0 in five innings again.

The Squeeze jumped on the Pioneers early with a four-run first inning.  Then another four runs in the second.  And three more in the third.

Despite incoming storm clouds, the Squeeze remained unfazed and continued to pound the ball in a contest that featured three home runs.  Our very own Paige Schindler had two of them.

Kenna Wilkey (Northwestern) took the win in the second game after pitching four shutout innings.

So, the #2 seeded Squeeze advance to tomorrow's championship game against the #1-seed Myakka City RiverMocs at noon, time tentative depending on weather.

The RiverMocs have dominated the league all season and did win their only tournament game in run-rule fashion yesterday (they got a first-round bye), but we did see the Squeeze get a win out of them recently.  It's a showdown you do not want to miss. The two squads faced each other three times in the regular season and the Manatee Squeeze won two of the contests -- 3-2 and 2-1. The River Mocs win was a 8-2 contest.

This game should be aired on the same platforms as yesterday.

Happy Tuesday and Go Cards!

Jared

Today they meet on the court -- MONDAY CARDINAL COUPLE

JULY 20TH IS NCAA DATE FOR BASKETBALL STUDENT-ATHLETIC/ COACH INTERACTION.

Monday morning you sure look fine.

The lyric line from the Fleetwood Mac song could be the theme song for the players and coaches on the UofL women's basketball squad and all of NCAA DI basketball. 

Remember when...? 

Today is the start of the summer access period The period can last up to eight weeks (Sept 15th) or the first day of classes (undetermined yet) -- whichever comes first. 

During the access period, coaches and players can work on weight training, conditioning and skills instructions together. Of course, the players have been doing a lot of some of these activities alone or in small groups (under the direction of strength and conditioning personnel and medical advisors)...but, today, the coaches can be on the floor with them.

They can spend up to eight hours a week on all of the above except for skills instruction -- where they get just four hours a week. No days off are required. 

The summer months are a time to get to know your new teammates, see who was put in the work since the season ended and evaluate just what a team could look like come November. The wild-card in all of this, of course, is how will things look, COVID-19 wise, in November. 

14 players are listed on the UofL WBB roster as of this morning. One of them (Malea Williams) will redshirt and won't report to campus until August (from what Jeff Walz said in his last teleconference). So, as far as we know...the 2020-21 roster looks like this for the other 13.

FRESHMEN

Merissah Russell
Olivia Cochran
Hailey Van Lith

REDSHIRT FRESHMEN

Ramani Parker
Nyah Green 

SOPHOMORE

Norika Konno

REDSHIRT SOPHOMORE

Molly Lockhart

JUNIOR

Liz Dixon
Elizabeth Balogun
Mykasa Robinson

REDSHIRT JUNIOR

Ahlana Smith
Kianna Smith

SENIOR

Dana Evans

Just how things will go and what is planned for today is something we don't have solid , verified facts on, but -- it is a start and that is a good thing. 

Things will also be going on over on the men's side of the Kueber Center with players and coaches and on a lot of DI campuses across the nation.  

Personal protection environment procedures are most likely one of the main things that will be evidenced today, especially with the Sunday numbers for Kentucky and COVID-19 being the highest reported positive cases to date. 

We'll look for news about the summer session and report to you what we hear and what UofL WBB Sports Information releases. No official word on whether media will be allowed to visit the summer session.

Keeping in mind that player, coaches and staff safety is the prime concern, I doubt there will be much "on site, personal" interaction between the press and UofL women's basketball program, but we'll update you on anything we hear about that, also. 

Here's a link to "Monday Morning" by Fleetwood Mac. Not a bad little pop-oriented jingle and you could start your Monday a whole lot worse, for sure.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Z2E37iNV0w

Have a "masked" Monday !

paulie
xxxxx

Sunday Cardinal Couple - The Bracket is Set

FGCL Bracket is Set

We didn't get our normal hype around NCAA basketball bracket reveals this year, so we'll take a little bit of joy in this one.  The FGCL regular season has concluded and the tournament bracket is set.  Most of the tournament will be played tomorrow, with only the championship game on Tuesday.

Jordyn Wolfe, Paige Schindler, and the rest of the Manatee Squeeze finished the regular season in 2nd place, behind the Myakka City RiverMocs.  It is a seven team tournament, so the RiverMocs will get the first round bye.  The Manatee Squeeze will start the first round tomorrow against Fast Pitch U.  Times are still to be determined.  The 2nd round challenge would be against either the Bradenton Slice, or the Pioneers.  In the other half of the bracket, the Bradenton Lynx will compete with Impact Softball 20 to see who gets to attempt to take down the RiverMocs.

Jordyn Wolfe did get selected for the Sun Division All-Start team, along with about half of the Manatee Squeeze team.  The Squeeze had the most representatives on the All-Star team with eight getting the nod, while the Bradenton Slice had seven selections.

Cardinal Couple Radio Hour

Technical difficulties prevented a live stream of the Cardinal Couple Radio Hour yesterday, but we
were able to record.  You can check it out below.

A full crew on board yesterday with myself, Paulie, Case and Jared

Topics included the latest on FGCL play, a rundown of some of the conference divisions concerning fall sports, and our typical summer Cardinal Couple quiz.  Paulie put us up against a tough one, but you'll be amazed at my performance in this one.

See if you can do better than us. Take the quiz. 

JMcA