The #15 Louisville Cardinals dominated the Pittsburgh Panthers in a 77-44 victory at the Petersen Events Center. The Cardinals showcased their defensive prowess, allowing only 44 points, extending their streak to 42 consecutive wins when holding their opponents to 59 points or less. Over the past nine seasons, Louisville boasts an impressive 149-4 record in such games.
Louisville’s suffocating defense was on display throughout the game, forcing 24 turnovers against the Panthers. This marks the 12th time this season that the Cardinals have forced 20 or more turnovers in a single game. Additionally, they limited Duke to only six points in the fourth quarter in their previous win. This season, Louisville has already held their opponents to single-digit quarters 10 times, a significant improvement from the 22 single-digit quarters from the previous season.
The Cardinals have been dominant against unranked opponents, amassing a 195-10 record in their last 205 games. Their success extends beyond this season, as Louisville has accumulated 191 wins and a remarkable .849 winning percentage since the start of the 2017-18 season.
Furthermore, Louisville has been exceptional in road games, with a 66-13 record since the start of the 2017-18 season. Currently, they rank fourth in the NCAA in road wins and fifth in road winning percentage (.835) during that span. This season alone, the Cardinals hold a 4-1 record in road games.
In their victory over Pitt, Louisville capitalized on their opponent’s mistakes, scoring 34 points off turnovers. This marks the fourth game this season in which they have scored 30 or more points off their opponent’s turnovers. Additionally, the Cardinals dominated in the paint, tallying 36 points against the Panthers. They have now scored 30 or more points in the paint in 13 games this season.
Individually, Olivia Cochran continued her impressive streak, notching double-digit points for the eighth consecutive game with 10 points alongside four rebounds and a steal. Kiki Jefferson also contributed with 10 points, four rebounds, two assists, and zero turnovers. Jefferson has scored in double figures in 10 of her last 11 games.
Sydney Taylor led the Cardinals in scoring with 13 points, hitting three three-pointers while adding four rebounds, four assists, a block, and a steal. It was her fourth time leading the team in points this season and her third time tying a season-high with three three-pointers. Eylia Love tied a career-high with five assists, contributing eight points, four rebounds, and three steals. Nyla Harris pulled down a team-best six rebounds to go along with eight points, two assists, and a steal. Jayda Curry scored nine points, including two three-pointers, while also recording three assists and two steals.
Louisville’s dominant defensive performance and balanced team contributions led them to a convincing victory over Pitt. The Cardinals continue to assert themselves as one of the top teams in the NCAA, with their suffocating defense and efficient scoring.
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