Jamaica basketballer shines on US college circuit

Freshman forward Samardo Samuels' debut in NCAA Division One college basketball was the most anticipated of any player in years, and when it came at the weekend, the league was hit with a loud thud that was heard throughout all the conferences nationwide, but especially in the Big East conference.

The University of Louisville capped a perfect opening weekend, defeating Morehouse State Uni-versity 74-67 on Saturday night and South Alabama University 81-54 last night to open the season 2-0, thanks to their Jamaican sensation.

Impressive stats

Samuels averaged 21 points, five rebounds, and two blocked shots over both games, leading the Cardinals in scoring both times.

In his debut against Morehouse, he went 8-of-12 from the field and 2-of-2 from the free throw line for a game-high 18 points, then stepped it up against South Alabama collecting a game-high 24 points on 9-of-10 shooting from the field and 6-of-7 from the line.

Samuels, who confessed to having some jitters on Saturday night, walked off to a standing ovation last night from the home fans at Freedom Hall after his stellar performance.

Louisville next face Western Kentucky University on Sunday, November 30 at home.