By Mitch Streufert
The 2010-2011 men’s basketball season is underway, with the Cardinals defeating Northern Kentucky University and Kentucky Wesleyan College in exhibition games this month. Freshman guard Elisha Justice has impressed many with his skills, most notably head coach Rick Pitino.
“I’m really glad we have him, because we’re going to need him this year,” said Pitino. “He does a lot of things well for us defensively. And he knows the point guard spot very well for a freshman.”
Justice attended Shelby Valley High School. He was honored as Kentucky’s Mr. Basketball during his senior year. While leading Shelby Valley to a 32-4 record and the state championship, he averaged 20.1 points, 5.9 assists and 3.9 steals per game. Justice said that winning the state title was the best basketball moment of his life, but he is ready for the next step.
“High school basketball is over,” said Justice. “I’m completely focused on my team now, and trying to make us better. I’m just happy that I have the opportunity to play as a freshman. And I’m hoping to reach my maximum potential.”
Because of his title as Mr. Basketball, Justice was the most hyped of Pitino’s recruits this year. The pressure of being a top recruit can be stressful for an 18 year old coming into a new environment. This pressure is felt by many incoming freshman, and sophomore guard Peyton Siva is all too familiar with that pressure.
“I know where Elisha is at,” said Siva. “I was there last year. I just told him to keep on improving his game and let the game come to him. He has excellent potential. And he is going to help this team.”
Justice’s character on the court has been noticed by his teammates off the floor. According to teammates, he works hard and earns every minute of playing time he receives. Junior guard Kyle Kuric sees a lot of himself in Justice.
“Elisha is quiet most of the time,” said Kuric. “But he is a blue-collar kind of a guy. He comes in day in and day out with a great positive attitude. He’s a freshman, so he has a lot to learn. We have all been there. I have confidence in him as a person and a player. As long he continues to work hard, he will be fine. Elisha is no different from anyone. He is going to have growing pains. But he is a great player and I’m excited to have him here.”
Justice will have the chance to show the nation his talents as the University of Louisville takes on national runner-up Butler University on Tuesday, Nov. 16 in the KFC Yum! Center. It is the regular season opener for the Cardinals and the first regular season men’s game in the new arena. Justice is excited to play in front of that kind of atmosphere.
“It’s going to be exciting to be in the arena in front of our fans,” said Justice. “I’ve never played in front of a crowd that big, so I hope I’m not too amped up. I just hope I can do something to help the team come away with a win.”
