Rick Pitino makes surprise video appearance to congratulate Russ Smith on jersey retirement
Louisville basketball legend Russ Smith returned to the Yum Center on Saturday to receive an honor of a lifetime — having his No. 2 jersey retired.
Smith was greeted to a standing ovation from the Cardinal faithful, and gave an emotional speech during his halftime ceremony.
Fans really got excited when former Louisville coach Rick Pitino showed up on the big screen to congratulate Smith on his honor. The arena erupted in cheers as Pitino reflected on the type of player and man Smith was during his time in Louisville.
"I don’t I’ve ever laughed as much in coaching a player," Pitino said. "I don’t think I’ve ever cried as much in coaching a player. And certainly I don’t think I could love a player any more than I love you. Congratulations, son."
A very loud reception at the KFC Yum! Center when Rick Pitino came on the screen during Russ Smith’s jersey retirement.
The Smith family went nuts when Pitino came on the screen. pic.twitter.com/sWM84LQnIH— Dominique Yates (@RealDYates) January 22, 2022
Pitino coached Louisville from 2001-2017 and is the only coach to win NCAA national titles with two different teams (the University of Kentucky in 1996 and the University of Louisville in 2013).
Pitino's 2013 title, however, was vacated by Louisville after an NCAA investigation into improper benefits for athletes.
Smith was a three-star prospect when Louisville snagged his commitment, and though undersized, his presence was huge for the Cardinals during his run from 2010 to 2014.
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Smith was selected No. 47 overall in the 2014 NBA Draft and played 27 career NBA games and has since played before playing his most recent games overseas and in the NBA’s G-League (formerly called the D-League).
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The Yum Center was full of gratitude for the former star, but so was Twitter, as several fans, Louisville legends, former teammates and friends congratulated Smith on his illustrious collegiate career.
Other Louisville legends like Artis Gilmore and Darrell Griffith made an appearance in the Yum Center to honor Smith.
Some bluegrass basketball legends: Artis Gilmore and Russ Smith. Smith: “I gotta get a picture with the GOAT!” pic.twitter.com/4HGeVUDrCB
— Tyler Greever (@Tyler_Greever) January 22, 2022
Former Athletic Director Vince Tyra gives shoutout
One of my fave collectibles is from one my fave players @Specter_Smit Today he confirms legendary status as a consensus All American who earned the right to have his number retired. So cool. Congrats 2! LsUp @LouisvilleMBB pic.twitter.com/jXrgSCLfcT
— Vince Tyra (@vincetyra) January 22, 2022
Smith's G-League team the Mad Ants show love
It is game day in Grand Rapids for us.
But in Louisville, it is Russ Smith Day. Congrats to @Specter_Smit on having your number 2 retired today for @LouisvilleMBB! Enjoy the moments Russ, #MadAntsBasketball is with you!#RUS2 🔴⚫️ pic.twitter.com/pGFmU7HiVP— Fort Wayne Mad Ants (@TheMadAnts) January 22, 2022
Yum Center, fans get emotional
I've gotta be honest, I almost lost it when Russ Smith's grandmother went and hugged Russ.
Not many grandma's get to see their grandchild's jersey/number retired.— Mark Blankenbaker (@UofLSheriff50) January 22, 2022
Today is a special day for me.
UofL bball has been a massive part of my life forever, but Russ Smith took all of the fun parts to a different stratosphere.
Not only an unreal player but a beloved teammate and overall person with a Hollywood-esque story.
No one will ever compare. pic.twitter.com/qJfpN9n5vr— Presley Meyer (@meyer_presley) January 22, 2022
Smith's father calls for return of 2013 title banner
Big Russ Smith gets a loud ovation from the fans when he said, "We need that 2013 Championship banner back up!" And points up to the rafters in the KFC Yum Center.
— Jody Demling (@jdemling) January 22, 2022
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Former Louisville basketball coach Rick Pitino celebrates Russ Smith
