Walz Provides Updates on the Cardinals

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – University of Louisville women's basketball head coach Jeff Walz met with the media from his home via teleconference on Monday afternoon.

"Everybody is really doing a pretty darn good job with the circumstances we've all been dealt," Walz said. "We're trying to make sure we're getting as much interaction where we can see each other as possible, not only with our incoming players, but with our returning players."

The coaching staff recently had a wellness check with the players to see how they were feeling with upcoming final exams. Walz noted how he is expecting another strong semester for the team academically and is impressed with how they have been finding ways to stay in shape from home.

"Instead of making excuses up, they're out working and really trying to find ways to get better," Walz said. "I'm really pleased with the way they've worked since this all happened in March."

Although it has been a tough few weeks, Walz and his staff are continuing to move forward to make the best of what they can when it comes to recruiting, returning players, and the incoming class.

Of those soon-to-be Cardinals in the incoming class is Ahlana Smith, who was recently named the NJCAA Player of the Year. Walz knows there will be a learning curve, but expects Smith to add depth to their roster at the guard spot.

"Overall, she's a great talent. She can score and she can defend," Walz said. "I expect her to have a pretty big impact on our program."

Just as the incoming class is set to make an impact, two graduating seniors have also left their mark on the program despite an abrupt end to the 2019-20 season.

Jazmine Jones and Kylee Shook were selected with back-to-back picks by the New York Liberty during the WNBA Draft on April 17. Louisville has had five players drafted in the last two years, which leads the country.

"There are only 36 picks in the entire draft, so to get drafted is pretty darn special. To be able to stay and make a team is pretty remarkable," added Walz. "We're doing something right in terms of developing players."

For the latest on Louisville women's basketball, visit GoCards.com, follow the team's Twitter account at @UofLWBB or on Facebook at facebook.com/UofLWBB.

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Jazmine Jones

Kylee Shook

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