A week after the Cardinals big win over in-state rival Kentucky, the now No. 6 Louisville basketball team will host Virginia tonight at 7pm on ESPN2. As of now, Louisville is a 3-point favorite over the Cavaliers.
Virginia is a team best-known for their smothering half-court defense and low scoring games. Virginia lost many key players off last year’s team, they looked to reload with transfer Austin Nichols but he was dismissed from the team early this season. London Perrantes will be the biggest threat to Louisville tonight, he’s a pass/defend-first point guard who has given Louisville fits in their last few meetings. Still, their offense leaves a lot to be desired (69.8PPG). Both teams are top 5 in defensive efficiency (UVA 2, UL 4) so this game will more than likely be low scoring which plays into Virginia’s favor more often than not. Louisville will have to find offense in a defense dominated game in order to win tonight.
While Virginia’s defense is staggering (47.2 points allowed per game), their offense is lacking. Louisville is riding high after the win a week ago, that confidence is key going into this game. The first few shots might not fall, but the Cards find a way to win tonight by a final score of 68-60 with big performances from Deng Adel and Jaylen Johnson.
Go Cards!
