A few weeks ago we wrote about Chris Mack and the Louisville basketball program possibly having interest in a former Cardinal big man. Could their be another former player on the radar?
While there’s been no formal announcement yet from SMU, many around the program expect big man Akoy Agau to transfer for his sixth and final season of eligibility.
After receiving more playing time last season, the former Cardinal, became a possible player of interest from the current Louisville basketball staff, at least according to the tweet from ESPN 680 radio host, and radio analyst Bob Valvano.
While there still has been nothing come out about Akoy, except for his own tweet, there is another player today who is reportedly transferring from his current school for a graduate year.
That player, like Agau, used to be a reserve big man for the Cardinals, before transferring.
His name… Matz Stockman.
Stockman was an unranked and most unheard of player, who was recruited from Oslo, Norway by Rick Pitino and the former Louisville coaching staff. The 7’0, 240 pound big man played three seasons at Louisville, only averaging 2.2 points, and 1.6 rebounds on just 5.5 minutes per game during his career.
Though there was a great need for him on the Cardinals roster in 2017-18, Stockman decided to transfer, even before the news with Rick Pitino and the FBI Investigation came out. He transferred to the Big 10, to play for another Pitino; this one being Richard Pitino and the Minnesota Gophers.
After sitting out the season per NCAA rules, Stockman would be eligible to play this season as a RS Senior, but has decided instead to transfer once again.
Could the Cards and Chris Mack express interest? That is an unknown at this point, as the news was just reported a short time ago by Evan Daniels of 247 Sports. However, the Cards have an immediate need at center, and getting a 7’0 who is eligible to play right away, would be a huge win for the staff.
If @CoachChrisMack and @LouisvilleMBB don't roll out the red carpet and bring Matz back, we will be truly disappointed. MAKE THIS RIGHT @LouisvilleMBB https://t.co/EsxUag7aKX
— Big Red Louie (@TheBigRedLouie) June 13, 2018
Not to mention, the fans LOVE themselves some Matz Stockman. If you don’t believe me just search his name on Twitter.
During his three years, Stockman rarely got the opportunity to play, but when he did he showed some promise. The 7 footer showed good athleticism for his size, and the ability to rebound as well as score when needed.
His best performance as Cardinal came during the 2016-17 season, when he scored a career high 10 points against Grand Canyon.
It’s likely that multiple high level Division 1 teams will reach out to Stockman, as well as several mid-majors. Stockman could decide to return back to the program who gave him a chance at playing Division 1 basketball, and finish what he started.
The Cards currently only have Steven Enoch and Malik Williams in their front court, while Jordan Nwora, and Dwayne Sutton will likely receive minutes at the four in a smaller lineup.
During a local radio “carwash,” Mack mentioned several times that the team is still looking to add 1 or 2 players for the 2018-19 season, with the priority being on the front court. Stockman would be able to provide size and depth for Louisville.
Next: Chris Mack Overcoming Obstacles on the Recruiting Trail