The KFC Yum! Center had a full audience that filed in to watch the Louisville Cardinals take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish this past Saturday. The game started off at a fast past with efficient from both sides. Once things cooled off, Louisville basketball fell to Notre Dame by a score of 82-70 in what became their fourth loss in five games.
Despite the loss, Louisville fans had reason to celebrate at halftime with the retirement of legend Russ Smith’s #2 jersey.
A true underdog
Russ Smith was just a kid from New York who came to Louisville out of pure fate. Smith was no blue chip prospect and was vastly underrecruited possibly due to his compact stature. Still, Rick Pitino and the Cards took a chance on a guy they didn’t even show up to recruit. Rick Pitino even took time during a video tribute to tell Russ how much he loved him and enjoyed the experience of coaching him. Strong words from a hall of fame coach.
Aren’t there so many stories about countless players like that? Think of Ja Morant! No Russ Smith was not Ja Morant so keep calm people, but he always found a way to get the Cards to the finish line in scintillating fashion when he had the rock. Whether it was stifling defense in a full court press, or a fadeaway jump shot late in the game. Russ shined bright in those moments, that is what made him stand out and set him apart.
With his family at his side, Smith was visibly moved by the gesture, rightfully so, and took his time expressing to the Louisville faithful about how much he loved being a Cardinal during his time in the Yum! Center. He also thanked the fans for always supporting him through the ups and downs of playing basketball.
Russ Smith brought the energy and excitement with his style of play and that’s what he will be remembered for most. It will be awesome to see his #2 jersey hanging in the rafters from this day forth. Thanks Russ!