Smith holds the Cards…

While averaging 30.0 points per game as a senior last season at Archbishop Molloy high school playing under legendary head coach Jack Curran, no one could deny the talent and constant stride for success that Russ Smith demonstrated on a nightly basis.

Smith's ball-handling is impecable

Saying Smith”Keeps the ball on a string” while dribbling is an understatement as he is a magician with the rock. The 6′0″ guards jumper has steadily improved since his senior season in the extremely competitive CHSAA.

When I last spoke with the Brooklyn native who is currently at South Kent Prep (CT) for a year, he mentioned his school list included La Salle, Houston, Baylor and lastly Louisville.

Well a few weeks later and Smith has made the biggest decision of his life…

The University of Louisville will be getting a commitment from the New York City-great during his visit on the weekend of November 15th during an official visit.

When asked why the Cardinals were chosen over the other schools, Smith simply responded by saying, “The coaching staff is great. [Associate coach] Ralph Willard, assistant coach Steve Masiello and head coach Rick Pitino…it gets no better than that.”

“Also the schedule,” says the savvy-guard, “ I want play big time basketball and I also want to play with superior and great talent.  That has kind of been my knock, so now I’m going to do it on the big level.”

Not only does Louisville fit Smith’s basketball-needs to the fullest extent, but the educational opportunity was a great part of his potential commitment as well.

Smith will be enrolling at Louisville in fall of 2010-2011 for his freshman season.

Smith made a great run in iS8 Fall Classic 2009 with the Panthers

“My job next year is to defend, get guys the ball and knock down open shots. Nothing more or less. That’s my goal for four years there, but each year I’m going to have to step it up.”