BIG EAST TOP TWO-GUARDS 2008-2009: 7) JERRY SMITH

November 11, 2008


Wauwatosa (WI) native Jerry Smith returns for his junior season with the Louisville Cardinals. As a sophomore, Smith scored 10.7 PPG and led the Cards with 68 made three-pointers.

As a freshman, Smith hit 48% (55-115) from beyond the arc, a conference best. With Rick Pitino's favorable use of the three-point shot in his offense, Smith's ability to connect from long distance will keep him on the court, even with Pitino's penchant for rotating his backcourt players.

Smith will have some help from the perimeter as well with Mississippi State transfer Reginald Delk becoming eligible and another year of experience for Edgar Sosa and Preston Knowles, who both could see time at both guard positions. Senior Andre McGee is likely to play solely point guard and is a pass-first lead guard that has developed a good rapport with Smith.

Strong guard play always helps enhance the college basketball odds of the contenders. Louisville has a group that is high in potential, now they just need to add consistency to their resume. Jerry Smith is one that could be ready to break out this year.