Verhulst Leads USA -- Cross Country Announces Schedule THURSDAY CARDINAL COUPLE

Verhulst and USA Advance to Quarterfinals

Team USA took on Taiwan in the Round of 16 in the FIBA U19 World Cup, and a 10-0 start stayed just as lopsided for the remainder of the game. Team USA set a new assist record (38) on their way to a 129-45 victory over the 0-4 Taiwanese team. The 129 points also tied the record for the most points scored by a USA U19 team.

The high scorers were a team effort as nine players scored in double figures. With only eleven players on the squad, that's quite the feat. Louisville's Payton Verhulst led the way, scoring 18 point and adding eight rebounds, six assists, and two steals. Her eight rebounds were tied for second on the team, and she was third on the team in assists. Verhulst started in the game, and had 13 points, three rebounds, and three assists at the half. 

Coach Jeff Walz will surely be pleased to see his new guard getting such valuable experience and performing at such a high level on this stage. If Verhulst can carry these kinds of performances into the beginning of her college career, she will almost surely stake a bonafide claim on a starting spot this fall. Team USA will continue their run at a title when they take on Spain in the quarterfinal game on tomorrow at 2:30 PM Eastern. The Spaniards went 2-1 in group play. 

Cross Country to Have Abbreviated Schedule

This fall won't see UofL cross country runners compete against different teams very often. The cross country meet schedule was announced yesterday and held only three regular season events. The team will open at the Tennessee Dual on September 3rd before going on a month-long break. There will be plenty of training in that time before the Cards play host at the Live in Lou Classic at EP Tom Sawyer Park on October 2nd. Two weeks later, the team will head to College Station to compete in A&M's Arturo Barrios Invitational for the first time. 

Hopefully, the teams can achieve some cold weather training, as they may need it for the tournament slate. Notre Dame will host the ACC Championships on October 29th, and the Southeast Regional meet will be held in Lexington on November 12th. If any Louisville runners advance to the NCAA Championship meet this season, they'll get a break from the cold as the Championships are set to be held in Tallahassee on November 20th. 

Until next time, Go Cards!

-CH-