Angel McCoughtry has already left her mark on the University of Louisville women’s basketball record books but Tom Jurich apparently wants a more visible reminder of McCoughtry around after she graduates, a concrete reminder of what she has done for the women’s program.
Jurich recently told Sports Illustrated that he is committed to erecting a statue of McCoughtry to honor the greatest female player in Louisville’s history, a player who has made women’s basketball matter in an area that has worshiped basketball for decades.
“I’ve said it a million times in speeches, it’s going up,” Jurich said. “I’m not sure where, but it’s going up. She’s been a real pioneer for our program and what we’re trying to accomplish.”
McCoughtry almost blushes when asked about the statue. It’s a little much. Though if Jurich must do it, she has just one request.
“I have to look pretty,” she says, trying stifle a laugh.
While McCoughtry doesn’t care what pose is chosen to preserve her for posterity, coach Jeff Walz has a suggestion.
“It’s got to show her passion,” he said. “That’s the thing that really sets her apart. She’s all about winning and she’s all about doing whatever it takes to make herself and her teammates better.”
If Jurich is so determined to get it done, the only question is where the statue would be erected. That should be easy. Not that equality is an issue, but why not just go ahead and do one of Darrell Griffith as well. Place them at the entrance of the new U of L downtown basketball arena, wearing jerseys No. 35 and No. 35, respectively, honoring both programs’ most valuable players at their new home.
I, like so many others around here have always recognized all the good Tom Jurich has been for UofL, and he goes one step further in wanting to recognize Angel in such a special way. After all, she has truly moved the Women’s program into another bracket that will ever be hard to match or surpass. With all her broken records, men’s along with women’s and the monies generated a statue certainly wouldn’t be to much to remember her by. Also, we can’t forget owr “GREAT” coach Jeff Walz either. So Tom, please don’t let the “big bucks” steal him away from us. Bill Fihe
That is so great and typical Tom Jurich. Angel IS the greatest female bb player in U of L’s history and is so deserving but many AD’s wouldn’t think about it. Way to go Tom and thank you Angel…..
I like that idea, i think it would look good.
Excellent choice for the location, Charlie. I fully recommend that everyone who can make the game Saturday. For those who can’t, it’ll be on WHAS TV here locally at 2 p.m.