In a dominant performance, the #15 Louisville Cardinals defeated the Wake Forest Demon Deacons with a final score of 83-62 at the KFC Yum! Center. The Cardinals showcased their prowess on both ends of the court and came away with a convincing victory.
Louisville’s success in ACC play over the years is unparalleled. With a record of 130-24 (.844) since the 2014-15 season, they stand as the only program with a winning percentage of .800 or higher in the ACC over the past decade. Their eight additional conference wins compared to the second-best team during that period solidify their dominance.
Maintaining their undefeated streak at home against unranked ACC opponents during conference play since their entrance into the league in 2014-15, the Cardinals proved once again why they are a force to be reckoned with. Shooting an impressive 55.4 percent from the floor, they displayed their offensive efficiency by surpassing the 50 percent mark for the fifth time this season. Their success in shooting was complemented by a season-best performance from beyond the arc, as they shot 63.6 percent (7-for-11) from three.
Louisville’s defensive tenacity was on full display as they forced Wake Forest into committing 19 turnovers. This marked the fourth consecutive ACC game in which they have forced 19 or more turnovers. The Cardinals’ solid defensive efforts against unranked opponents were evident once again, as they boast a record of 196-10 in their last 206 games against such teams.
Six players for Louisville achieved double-figure scoring in the victory, highlighting their depth and offensive firepower. This marks the second instance this season in which they have had six or more players score in double digits, and they remain undefeated in those games. Additionally, seven players tallied eight or more points, which has become a recurring theme for the team this season. This marked the third time they have achieved this feat, and they came away with a win in each of those games.
The Cardinals also showcased their ability to distribute the ball effectively, as Olivia Cochran dished out a team-best four assists. Cochran continued her impressive streak of double-digit scoring performances, making it nine games in a row with her team-high 12 points. She displayed her shooting efficiency once again by converting 50 percent of her field goal attempts.
Nyla Harris had a perfect shooting performance, going 5-for-5 from the floor to contribute 10 points to the team. This marked the second occasion this season where she shot 100 percent from the field. She has consistently scored in double figures, achieving this feat for the ninth time this season.
Kiki Jefferson continued her scoring prowess with 10 points and provided four assists to facilitate the team’s offensive success. She has now scored 10 or more points in 11 of her last 12 games.
Sydney Taylor made her mark from beyond the arc, connecting on two of her four attempts and accumulating 11 points. Her ability to score consistently has been evident this season, as she has reached double figures in eight games. Making multiple three-pointers has also become a trademark of her game, achieving this feat in 10 games this season.
Merissah Russell contributed to the scoring effort by tallying 10 points, including two three-pointers. She also secured a season-best five rebounds, displaying her versatility. Russell has now scored in double digits in five games this season, with three of those instances coming against ACC opponents. She has also demonstrated her ability to knock down threes, achieving this feat for the third time this season.
Jayda Curry stepped up with a team-leading 12 points, shooting 5-for-6 from the floor and 2-for-2 from behind the arc. She also made contributions on the defensive end with two steals, exhibiting her all-around game. Curry has proven to be a consistent scorer, leading the team in points for the third time this season and achieving double figures in six games. Her ability to connect from beyond the arc has been pivotal, as she has made multiple threes in six games this season.
Elif Istanbulluoglu provided a solid performance off the bench, tallying nine points on an efficient 4-for-5 shooting. She also made a three-pointer for the second consecutive game, showcasing her shooting prowess.
Nina Rickards showcased her playmaking ability by tying her season-high of five assists. This marked the third occasion this season in which she achieved this feat, displaying her ability to distribute the ball effectively.
Overall, the Cardinals demonstrated their dominance with a well-rounded team effort. Their offensive efficiency, defensive intensity, and depth were on full display as they secured another victory in ACC play. With their impressive record and consistent performances, Louisville has solidified themselves as a formidable contender in college basketball.
