In an intense matchup between two ranked teams, the #19 Louisville Cardinals emerged victorious with a 59-51 win over the #23 Washington Huskies. The game took place at the KFC Yum! Center with an attendance of 8,018 passionate fans.
The Cardinals showcased their defensive prowess once again, improving their record to 2-1 this season against ranked opponents. Louisville extended a remarkable winning streak, securing their 40th consecutive victory when holding their opponents to 59 points or less.
Over the past nine seasons, the Cardinals have proven to be dominant when limiting their opponents’ scoring, boasting an impressive 147-4 record in games where they allow 59 points or less. Their defensive tenacity proved effective against Washington, as they held the Huskies to only 51 points.
In the first half, Louisville managed to score 31 points, the highest amount of points Washington has allowed in the opening half this season. The Cardinals displayed their offensive capabilities, shooting 43.3 percent from the floor, which was the highest shooting percentage an opponent has achieved against Washington this season.
Despite forcing a season-low 14 turnovers against the Huskies, Louisville capitalized on these turnovers and converted them into 21 points. This has been a recurring theme for the Cardinals this season, as they have managed to score 20 or more points off turnovers in nine games.
Head coach Jeff Walz continues to bring success to the Cardinals, boasting an impressive 97-16 record in the month of December. Over the past six seasons, Louisville has showcased their dominance in December with a 37-3 record.
In nonconference play, the Cardinals have been nearly unstoppable under Coach Walz, who has led the team to a remarkable 185-35 (.841) record against nonconference opponents in regular season play. This year, Louisville finished nonconference play with an 11-2 record, marking the 12th time under Walz they have achieved 10 or more wins in the nonconference. They have now accumulated an impressive 88-12 record in nonconference play over the past eight seasons.
The Cardinals have consistently been a force to be reckoned with in recent years, boasting 188 wins and an astounding .847 winning percentage since the start of the 2017-18 season. These impressive statistics place Louisville at third in total wins and fifth in winning percentage across the NCAA during that time span.
Additionally, the Cardinals dominated the boards, outrebounding Washington 40-26 in Wednesday’s victory. This marks the eighth game this season that Louisville has achieved 40 or more rebounds, further highlighting their rebounding prowess.
Points in the paint played a crucial role in the Cardinals’ victory, as they totaled 34 points against Washington. This marks the 11th game this season in which Louisville has scored 30 or more points in the paint, demonstrating their ability to penetrate and score close to the basket.
On an individual level, Olivia Cochran led the Cardinals with 14 points on an efficient 5-for-7 shooting, while also contributing seven rebounds. Cochran, a consistent scoring threat, has now scored 10 points or more in nine games this season, leading the team in this category. She also maintained her impressive shooting percentage, shooting 50 percent or better from the floor in nine games so far.
Nyla Harris was another standout player for Louisville, scoring 11 points on a 5-for-7 shooting performance and securing four rebounds. Harris has proven herself as a consistent scorer, achieving 10 or more points in seven games this season. Additionally, she has shot 50 percent or better from the floor in nine games.
Nina Rickards showcased her defensive skills, tying her career-high with five steals. In addition to her steals, Rickards contributed six points, four rebounds, and two assists. She has consistently provided assists this season, achieving two or more assists in 12 out of the 13 games thus far. Rickards also recorded her fourth game this season with two or more steals.
Kiki Jefferson played a significant role in the victory, tallying eight points and leading the team with eight rebounds. This marks the third time this season that Jefferson has led the Cardinals in rebounds.
Sydney Taylor rounded out the Cardinals’ notable performances, scoring eight points, grabbing five rebounds, and dishing out two assists. Taylor has achieved eight or more points in 10 games this season and has secured five or more rebounds in three games.
The Louisville Cardinals demonstrated their strength in both offense and defense, with standout performances from numerous players. As they continue to display their dominance on the court, their record-breaking success under Coach Walz speaks volumes about the team’s talent and dedication.
