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“We knew that, traditionally, their DNA is the three-point shot, and the other important piece is the driving of the basketball and offensive rebounding. I am disappointed and frustrated that we worked on this for a few days and got in the game and did not execute,” said Payne. “It falls on me, the staff, the players, all of us. Nobody is without blame and we all are talking about how we hold each other accountable more than we already do.”

It was a balanced offensive effort for Louisville, as Olivia Cochran led the way with 16 points and 11 rebounds for her second double-double of the season. Fellow teammate Nyla Harris also had an impressive performance, contributing 16 points and nine rebounds. Kiki Jefferson rounded out the double-digit scorers with 12 points, four rebounds, and two assists.

In their most recent matchup, the Cardinals fell short against DePaul with a final score of 75-68. However, Arkansas State comes into this game with some momentum after routing UAB 87-68 to end their three-game losing streak.

Louisville enters this clash with momentum on their side, as they are currently riding a four-game winning streak. Their most recent victory was a dominant 80-40 performance against NC A&T on December 3 at home. The Cardinals’ defense once again proved to be formidable, as they secured their 38th consecutive win when holding their opponents to 59 points or less. In fact, Louisville has limited their opponents to 59 points or fewer in five of their nine games this season.

Louisville displayed a balanced attack against the Aggies, as five players scored in double figures and seven players contributed with six points or more. This depth of scoring is a key factor for the Cardinals, as they had 10 players contribute on the scoreboard. The team’s ability to involve multiple players in the scoring allows for a well-rounded offense.

The Cardinals are coming off a three-game win streak, including a 64-58 road win over No. 19/20 Ole Miss in the ACC/SEC Challenge. They managed to overcome a halftime deficit and went on a 7-0 run in the third quarter to secure the win. This game marked the Cardinals’ 37th consecutive win when holding opponents to 59 points or less.

Head coach Dani Busboom Kelly was quick to express her gratitude for the opportunity to host the tournament at the Yum! Center, recognizing the commitment of the university and the impact it has on the sport of volleyball. She praised Western Michigan as a formidable opponent, acknowledging their impressive season and highlighting the skills of their setter Logan Case and libero Andelyn Simkins.

After trailing 27-22 at halftime, Louisville came out strong in the second half, shooting an impressive 55% from the field and making 16 of 22 free throws. Junior forward Brandon Huntley-Hatfield commented on the team’s motivation, saying, “We just wanted to remember last year and how it went. Louisville vs. Bellarmine – we all knew what was at stake. They’re a very good team. A very, very disciplined team. So, we just wanted to have the right focus, one through 15. We just wanted to come out here and be different than last year, and I feel like we did that.”

The Cardinals have already faced Wright State earlier this season, defeating them 3-1. Head coach Dani Busboom Kelly expressed excitement about playing them again and acknowledged the tough competition. She also highlighted the special opportunity to play at home in front of their fans.

– The Cardinals are coming off a thrilling overtime win against New Mexico State, with head coach Kenny Payne securing his first overtime victory. Meanwhile, Bellarmine suffered a close 62-58 loss on the road against West Virginia coached by former Cardinal assistant Scott Davenport.