In a highly anticipated matchup between two top-ranked teams, the No. 18 Louisville Cardinals saw their six-game winning streak come to an end with an 86-62 loss to the No. 17 UConn Huskies. The Cardinals put up a valiant effort, but ultimately could not keep up with the strong offensive performance from the Huskies.
Leading the way for the Cardinals was Kiki Jefferson, who had an impressive game with 19 points, six rebounds, and five assists. This performance marked her seventh consecutive game scoring in double figures. Olivia Cochran also had a solid showing with 12 points and six rebounds, while Sydney Taylor contributed 13 points and three assists.
Both teams got off to a hot start in the first quarter, as they were able to convert on their shots at a high rate. The Cardinals were especially efficient, hitting seven consecutive shots from the floor. They trailed by just one point at the end of the first quarter, with a score of 28-27 in favor of the Huskies.
The second quarter saw UConn pull ahead by as much as nine points, but Jefferson took matters into her own hands and brought the Cardinals back into the game. She scored the team’s last 11 points of the quarter, allowing them to reduce the deficit to just four points heading into halftime.
Despite their best efforts, Louisville was unable to mount a comeback in the third quarter. UConn outscored them 19-9 in that frame, extending their lead and making it increasingly difficult for the Cardinals to catch up. The final quarter saw the Huskies put the game out of reach, securing the victory.
Next up for the Cardinals is a home game against the Washington Huskies on Wednesday, December 20. This will be their final game before the holiday break and will be nationally televised on the ACC Network. Louisville will look to bounce back from their loss and end the year on a high note.
