Nov. 29, 2023 – SJB Pavilion was ablaze with excitement as the #22/19 Louisville Cardinals secured a hard-fought victory over the #19/20 Ole Miss Rebels. With a final score of 64-58, the Cardinals showcased their resilience and skill throughout the game.
Louisville’s success from the free throw line played a crucial role in their win, as they shot an impressive 25-for-36. This marks the fifth game this season where they have made 20 or more free throws, with the Cardinals boasting a flawless 4-0 record in those games. It came as no surprise that they entered the game ranked 5th in the country for free throws made per game, averaging 19.9.
This victory against Ole Miss marked Louisville’s first win against a ranked opponent this season, a significant accomplishment for the team. Last season, they achieved four wins against ranked teams and have an impressive overall record of 38-22 against ranked opponents over the past seven seasons.
The Cardinals’ performance on the road has been exemplary, with a 2-0 record this season and a notable 10-5 record on the road last year. Since the start of the 2017-18 season, Louisville has boasted an astonishing 64-12 record in true road games. Their dominance on the road places them third in the NCAA for road wins and fourth in winning percentage (.842) over that span.
Maintaining their stellar defensive prowess, the Cardinals extended their streak to 37 consecutive games where they allowed 59 or fewer points. This incredible feat demonstrates their ability to stifle opponents and control the pace of the game. Over the past nine seasons, Louisville boasts a remarkable 143-4 record when limiting opponents to 59 or fewer points.
Under coach Walz, November has proven to be a successful month for the Cardinals, with an impressive 93-18 record. In the past seven seasons alone, the team has recorded a remarkable 41-5 record in November. When it comes to nonconference foes in regular-season play, the Cardinals have dominated with a 181-34 record (.842) under Walz. Over the past eight years, they have maintained an 83-11 record in non-conference play.
The Cardinals’ overall performance in recent years has solidified their standing as a powerhouse in collegiate basketball. Since the start of the 2017-18 season, Louisville has secured 184 victories, placing them fourth in the NCAA. Additionally, they boast an enviable winning percentage of .848, ranking them fifth in the NCAA during that same span.
Defensively, the Cardinals imposed their will on Ole Miss, forcing an impressive 21 turnovers. This marks the sixth consecutive game where they have forced 20 or more turnovers, highlighting their ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Individually, Kiki Jefferson shined once again for the Cardinals, leading the team in scoring with 16 points for the second consecutive game. Jefferson has now scored in double figures for three consecutive games, consistently providing an offensive spark.
Nina Rickards continued her impressive scoring streak, tallying double figures for the fourth consecutive game with 15 points against Ole Miss. She also showcased her versatility by leading the team with three assists and three steals. Rickards has impressed with her playmaking ability, recording two or more assists in every game this season.
Sydney Taylor played a crucial role for the Cardinals, leading the team in rebounds with six while contributing eight points and sinking two three-pointers. Taylor has been exceptional from beyond the arc, scoring multiple threes in six consecutive games and accumulating seven games with two or more three-pointers this season.
The Louisville Cardinals have once again shown their tenacity and skill on the court, securing a hard-fought victory over a ranked opponent. With their dominant defense, consistent scoring contributions, and impressive road record, they continue to solidify their status as a force to be reckoned with in collegiate basketball.
