victory

With this win, Louisville remains the only undefeated team in conference play, boasting a perfect 5-0 record. Not only have they been dominant at home, but they have also been exceptional on the road with a 3-0 record in conference play. No other team in the ACC can claim this undefeated road record.

All eight members of the Cardinals’ team took to the course for the first time since The Ally tournament in October. Carmen Griffiths led the way with a dominant performance, winning her match 3 & 1. Rylee Suttor also played impressively, coming out on top with a score of 4 & 3. Beatriz Barrios secured a victory with a score of 3 & 2, while Gabbi Bentancourt prevailed 2 & 1. Hana Ryskova sealed the win for the Cardinals with a score of 2 up. On the flip side, Millie Cottrell suffered a narrow defeat of 1 down, Carly Haines lost 5 & 3, and Molly Lyne fell 2 & 1 in their matches.

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.

Louisville showcased their depth on offense, with six players scoring in double-digits. Jayda Curry and Olivia Cochran led the charge with 12 points each. Curry also contributed with two rebounds, one assist, and two steals, shooting an impressive 5 for 6 from the field. Cochran had a solid all-around game, adding three rebounds, four assists, and a steal, while going a perfect 6 for 6 from the free-throw line.

Starting the match with a comfortable 20-point lead in smallbore, Kentucky held on to their advantage and also emerged victorious in the air rifle event. Their aggregate score of 4732 is the second-highest team score of the season. Leading the way for the Wildcats, Sofia Ceccarello secured top spot in smallbore with a score of 591 and clinched the aggregate honors with a total score of 1188. Emmie Sellers showcased her skills by achieving a career-high-tying score of 598 in the air rifle event.

Louisville once again showcased their dominance in ACC openers, extending their perfect record to 10-0 since joining the league in the 2014-15 season. This marked the third time they have faced a ranked opponent in their ACC opener.

The Cardinals had an impressive offensive performance, with five players scoring in double figures. Jayda Curry had a standout game, delivering a season-high 19 points and showcasing her accuracy by shooting 7-for-12 from the field, including a perfect 2-for-2 from behind the arc. Merissah Russell also had a noteworthy game, scoring a season-high 12 points on 3-for-3 shooting.

Kentucky head coach Kyra Elzy praised Miles’ performance and credited her for adjusting to the opposing defense. Elzy highlighted the importance of Miles being aggressive and making plays. She stated, “To see her cut, make layups, make plays and be aggressive, that’s what we’re going to need from her.”

Brohm acknowledged that his team had some chances in the second half to convert plays and get back in the game, but they were unable to make it work. He also mentioned that all three segments of the team – defense, offense, and special teams – were beaten by USC, and that is ultimately why they lost.

Head coach Kenny Payne expressed his pride in the team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of playing with energy and togetherness. He highlighted the significance of conquering oneself and challenging any doubts or fears that the players may have. Despite some lapses in concentration when they had big leads, Payne acknowledged that it is part of the learning process for a young team.