In an effort to make practices more competitive, Louisville head coach Chris Mack bestows a gold jersey to one of his players each week. It’s a tradition that dates back to his days as an assistant at Xavier, and allows the team to see which player has been most productive in practice that week.
Mack and his staff keep track of statistics such as points, field goal percentage, rebounds, assists, steals, fouls and turnovers, in addition to the player’s ability to draw charges and fouls. They also reserve the option of giving a player one extra point at their discretion as a “coach’s choice.”
Naturally, the player with the most points at the end of the week gets to wear the gold jersey for the following week.
Forward Jordan Nwora, the ACC’s reigning Most Improved Player and third-team all-conference selection (17 points and 7.6 rebounds per game), got his junior campaign started off on the right note by being named the first gold jersey recipient of the 2019-20 season.
Louisville finished last season 20-14 overall (10-8 in the ACC) and made it to the quarterfinals of the National Invitation Tournament. The Cardinals open their upcoming campaign on Nov. 5 against Miami (FL).
Photo via @LouisvilleMBB on Twitter