Louisville took care of business with a convincing 90–70 win over California, using balanced scoring, control of the glass, and timely shooting to pull away late.
The Cardinals shot 46% from the field and knocked down 14 three-pointers, building a lead that stretched to as many as 26 points in the second half.
A brief 6–0 California spurt in the final minute did little to change the tone of a game Louisville largely dictated from start to finish.
Ryan Conwell led the way with a game high 26 points, burying six triples and adding four assists as the engine of the Cardinals’ offense.
Adrian Wooley followed with 21 points on an efficient 9-of-15 shooting, while Sananda Fru delivered a strong interior presence with 13 points and a game high 14 rebounds. J’Vonne Hadley chipped in 11 points and eight boards, and Isaac McKneely added 11 points, giving Louisville five players in double figures and steady production across the lineup.
Louisville’s advantage on the glass proved decisive. They out-rebounded Cal 49–32. 14 of those rebounds were offensive boards that led to extra possessions. The Cardinals also protected the ball well, committing just 10 turnovers, and capitalized from the free throw line at an 86% clip.
California was led by C.J. Bell’s 20 points and Jayden Pippen’s 17, but struggled to find consistent offense, shooting just 34% overall.
Conwell’s three-pointer at the 1:09 mark pushed the lead to its largest margin and effectively sealed the result, capping a complete performance for the Cardinals as they closed strong and never let Cal seriously threaten down the stretch.
Louisville will take on Duke Jan. 6 at the Yum Center. Cards are hoping start guard Mikel Brown Jr will return against the Blue Devils.
