The Louisville Cardinals proved it could win without leading scorer Asia Durr in a 70 – 42 decision over the Pittsburgh Panthers.
On resting Durr, Coach Jeff Walz explained, “Asia has been playing a ton of minutes for us, just the knee was a little sore.”
He continued, “She still warmed up and everything in case something would happen where if she needed to play, she was able to play.”
In Durr’s absence, Louisville was led by sophomore Dana Evans. Evans knocked down 4 three- pointers, collecting 16 points and 7 rebounds.
The Cardinals came out hot, outscoring the Panthers, 23 – 6 in the first frame and 18 – 6 in the second.
Louisville held Pittsburgh to 14% shooting in the first half, limiting the Panthers to only 3-made field goals.
Kauai Bradley led the Panthers in the first half knocking down 2 triples in the second quarter.
Louisville led Pittsburgh, 41 – 12 at halftime.
Despite Louisville’s hefty lead, the Cardinals came out flat in the third quarter.
The Panthers connected on its first two field goals and knocked down 1-of-2 free throws. Pittsburgh outscored Louisville 8-2 in the opening minutes of the third quarter.
The Panthers ultimately led the Cardinals in the third frame, 15-14.
Pittsburgh tried to claw its way back from a 29-point first half deficit, but was unsuccessful.
The Cardinals found success on the boards, out-rebounding the Panthers, 48 – 31. Louisville also forced 19 turnovers.
Dana Evans paced the Cardinals with 16 points. Kylee Shook added 12 and 7 rebounds, while Sam Fuehring collected 10 points. Louisville had 9 players record points.
Next up, the Cardinals face the UConn Huskies on Thursday, January 31st in a marquee match up. Tip off is at 7PM at the KFC Yum! Center.
