Reagan Bender, a standout guard from Sacred Heart Academy in Louisville, Kentucky, has reaffirmed her commitment to the University of Louisville’s women’s basketball program. Standing at 5-foot-10, Bender’s decision to join the Cardinals over other offers, including one from Western Kentucky, underscores her dedication to contributing to Louisville’s basketball legacy.
Throughout her high school career, Bender was instrumental in leading Sacred Heart to four consecutive state championships. Over her four years as a starter, she amassed 1,818 points and 477 rebounds, showcasing her scoring ability and versatility on the court. Her impressive performance included hitting 212 three-pointers, highlighting her proficiency from beyond the arc.
In her senior year, Bender averaged 13.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.9 steals per game, demonstrating her all-around game and leadership. Her efforts culminated in an 18-point performance in the state championship game against McCracken County, securing her fourth-straight state title. These achievements earned her a spot on the all-tournament team and recognition on The Courier Journal’s All-Seventh Region girls basketball team.
Transitioning to her freshman year at Louisville in the 2024-25 season, Bender has already begun to make her mark. She tallied a season-best seven points against Grambling State and scored her first collegiate points in a game against Morehead State. Her collegiate debut came against a formidable opponent, the #5/#6 ranked UCLA, indicating the coaching staff’s confidence in her abilities.
Bender’s commitment to Louisville is deeply personal, as her grandfather, Bob Bender Sr., graduated from the University of Louisville in 1957 and was inducted into the university’s Hall of Fame in 1992. This family connection adds a layer of significance to her decision to play for the Cardinals.
Head coach Jeff Walz has expressed enthusiasm about Bender joining the team, noting her high basketball IQ, shooting ability, and defensive tenacity. Her versatility allows her to play multiple positions on the perimeter, providing the team with valuable flexibility. Walz believes that Bender’s winning mentality and experience will be significant assets to the program.
Bender’s reaffirmation of her commitment to Louisville comes at a time when the program is aiming to maintain its status as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball. Her decision reflects her belief in the team’s direction and her desire to contribute to its success on a national level.
As she continues her freshman season, Bender is focused on developing her skills and adapting to the collegiate level of play. Her early performances indicate a promising future, and she is poised to become an integral part of the Cardinals’ lineup in the years to come.
Off the court, Bender is known for her strong work ethic and commitment to her studies. Balancing academics and athletics, she exemplifies the student-athlete model, earning respect from coaches, teammates, and peers alike.
Looking ahead, Bender aims to build on her early successes and help lead Louisville to conference championships and deep NCAA tournament runs. Her dedication to the program and her teammates is evident, and she is determined to leave a lasting legacy at the University of Louisville.
In reaffirming her commitment to the Cardinals, Reagan Bender has demonstrated not only her loyalty to the program but also her readiness to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Her journey is one to watch as she continues to grow and make an impact in women’s college basketball.