Louisville Ends Four-Year Drought with Win Over Kentucky
The No. 12 Louisville Cardinals ended a four-year losing streak against the No. 9 Kentucky Wildcats with a 96–88 victory, delivering a long-awaited moment of relief for Card Nation.
Early Offensive Surge
Louisville started strong as Ryan Conwell hit an early free throw, followed by two consecutive three-pointers. A quick connection between Sananda Fru and Conwell extended the lead to double digits before the first media break. The offense found rhythm early, scoring efficiently from the perimeter and the paint. Fru and Aly Khalifa dominated inside, while Brown kept the pace steady and organized.
Building Momentum
The Cardinals went on a 15–2 run, seizing total control and building a lead as high as 20 points during the first half. Their energy and precision on both ends made it appear that the game might become a runaway victory.
Kentucky Fights Back
Refusing to concede, Kentucky countered late in the first half. A series of defensive stops and quick conversions helped them close the gap. Drives from Otega Oweh and several threes by Collin Chandler reduced Louisville’s lead to single digits before halftime. The Cards entered the break with a 53–46 advantage, turning what looked like a blowout into a more competitive contest.
“Louisville led by as many as 20 in the first half and looked firmly in control.”
Author’s Summary
Louisville snapped a four-year losing streak to Kentucky with a strong start, steady teamwork, and enough composure to withstand a late Wildcats rally.