Bria Smith, the No. 8 overall prospect in the class of 2011, picked Louisville over perennial powerhouse Tennessee on Wednesday.

"The help from my family was pretty much why I chose them," Smith said of the Cardinals. "I had a lot of support from my coaches and family this time around and I am glad that they will be close enough to see me play. It will allow them to see a lot of games since I will be playing in the Big East."

Smith was a four-year starter and McDonald's All-American at the renowned Christ the King High School in New York, averaging 21.1 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game as Christ the King compiled a 21-9 record during her senior season.

Jeff Walz has already signed the class' No. 12 prospect, Sarah Hammond, a 6-2 forward from Mount Vernon, Ky. 

Smith and freshman All-American Shoni Schimmel figure to make up one of the most dynamic backcourts in college basketball.