Getting to Know Freshman Forward Janae Howard
September 27, 2008 | Women's Basketball
Sept. 27, 2008
Louisville, Ky. - The first of three Kentucky recruits, freshman forward Janae Howard will make a sizable impact on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. A true triple threat her talent on the offensive glass, shooting ability, and fight for rebounds makes her a great asset to Louisville.
Howard ranked 41st in the nation among the 2008 recruiting class as she was a first-team pick on The Courier-Journal's All-State team. A great shot blocker with tremendous ability to control her space in the paint she made her presence known during the Kentucky girl's All-star game last season. Averaging 17.8 points and 8.6 rebounds at Owensboro High School her junior year, she anticipates bringing those numbers to the Ville. While she is eager to contribute to the squad she realizes all things take time.
"I am really trying to find my voice on the team right now because I'm the quietest one," explained Howard. "I'm really trying to find my voice, but I am willing to do whatever is needed of me. Whether that is coming in for someone is tired or stepping in and knocking down some shots. That would be great, but I know it's going to take a lot of hard work."
Her decision to come to Louisville was truly a family choice. The Owensboro native grew up a Cardinal fan and has always had red and white on her mind.
"Louisville has always been in the back of my head," said Howard. "My whole family is huge Louisville fans they always have been. My dad has been a Louisville fan forever. But back then the women really didn't get a lot of attention and now that they have a voice and that really sticks out to me. We didn't get this kind of recognition before and if I can be apart of this now and be close to home that is great."
Owning a long wing span and remarkable athleticism Howard effectively uses her body to play good defense and pull down offensive boards. Coach Walz and his staff are excited to get their incoming freshman on the court, seeing her work ethic and improvement throughout the summer gives them hope for her future success in Louisville.
"Janae is a very smooth player who will be relied on to knock down big shots," Walz said. "She will be able to use her size to post up opposing guards." Taking her dedication to excellence off the court Howard is one of the only freshmen to declare a major. Currently, she is an Exercise Science major and she is interested in Physical Therapy and Nutrition.
Happy to be close to home and playing for her favorite team, Howard welcomes the challenge Division I basketball has to offer.
Up Close with Howard
Parents: John and Diane Howard
Nickname: Nae
Favorite Food: Mom's meatloaf
Favorite TV Show:The Simpsons, Desperate Housewives
Favorite Athlete: Michael Phelps
Superstitions: I always knock on wood
One word that decribes me: independent
The best gift I ever received:My mom's graduation gift
My Sports Center Highlight would be: Scoring 44 points against a rival team
