Louisville Basketball: Top 15 Players of 2000’s – 15-12
By Jacob Lane
#12 – David Padgett (2005-2008)
Career Stats: 10.7 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 1.8 apg, 1.4 bpg
I can’t think of a more consistent big man in my time of being a Cardinal fan than David Padgett. Known for not being able to jump over a phone book, but slicing opposing defenses up with hard screens, and slick passes, Padgett played a huge role in taking one of the best Cardinal teams in history on two big tournament runs. Though he never got to play in a final four (he did sit on the bench as a transfer in ’05) Padgett is still today considered to be one of the best big men in program history and the accolades back that up. Padgett was named team captain in his first true season as a Card, tied the record for third most points in a debut game, scoring 17 against Prarie View A&M in ’05, and was named to the All-Big East team in 2006-07. Though he hasn’t played in a a game in over 10 years, even today Louisville fans still look at their big men through “Padgett” colored glasses. Can they pass from the top of key? Can plays be run through him? If the answer is no, WE DON’T WANT EM!
It wouldn’t be right to talk about Padgett without once again thanking him for everything he did for the Cardinals basketball program this past season as Interim Coach. We all know the story of how he was handed the coaching job, and with all that being said, Padgett did a damn good job and this program was lucky to have him. ‘Nuff said.
Next: Dwayne Sutton = Louisville
Next week we’ll be back with the second part of our four part series, ranking the greatest Cardinal basketball stars from the 2000’s, counting down 11-8.
L’s up!