Louisville Buries South Carolina State 104–45 in Season Opener Blowout

by Louisville Men’s Basketball Beat Writer for CSZ, Taylor Kopp

Louisville opened its season in emphatic fashion Monday night, dismantling South Carolina State 104–45 at the KFC Yum! Center. The Cardinals dominated every phase of the game, shooting 53 percent from the field and knocking down 12 three-pointers while forcing 25 turnovers from the Bulldogs.

After jumping out to a double-digit lead just three minutes into the game, Louisville never looked back, building its advantage to as many as 67 points late in the second. The Cardinals’ balance was on full display — five players scored in double figures, led by Khani Rooths, who finished with 20 points on 7-of-11 shooting. Isaac McKneely added 17 points, connecting on five three-pointers, while J’Vonn Hadley nearly posted a double-double with 13 points and nine rebounds.

Louisville’s offensive rhythm was matched by its defensive effort. The Cardinals held South Carolina State to just 23 percent shooting and 2-for-19 from beyond the arc, capitalizing on Bulldog mistakes to score 36 points off turnovers. Guard Mike Brown Jr. orchestrated the offense with precision, dishing out six assists to go along with 11 points, while Rico Conwell added 12 points and two steals.

For South Carolina State, offensive struggles persisted all night. The Bulldogs managed only 13 made field goals and went scoreless for long stretches in both halves. Raynie Wright led the team with 11 points, and Noa Treadwell chipped in six, but no player reached double figures until late in the second half.

The Cardinals return to action later this week looking to build on their most lopsided victory in recent memory, while South Carolina State will seek a reset before returning home for its next matchup.