(AP Photo/Al Behrman)
It was the end of the regular season rivalry between Louisville and Cincinnati. And the 99th meeting between these teams would not disappoint. Joining the football team the Cardinals basketball team took the final game on Cincys home turf beating the Bearcats in an instant classic 58-57. The regular season series ends with the Cardinals leading 56-43 spanning the Metro Conference, Missouri Valley , Conference USA, Big East and AAC. Cards now move into first place in the AAC at 12-2 and 23-4 on the season.
When we look back on this season it is that 9 day lay-off that was the turning point. Before that break the Cardinals were struggling to find their defensive identity, players weren’t certain of their roles and they were struggling to find any consistency. Since that break they are 4-0, players have settled into their roles on the team, they have moved back into the top 10 of offensive and defensive efficiency ratings, and have been playing with a sense of purpose. A team that we were wondering if they could win a few games in March now looks like a group that could defend their title.
I said from day one when Terry Rozier committed to play for the Cardinals that he was going to be something special. I’ve followed this kid on his journey to Louisville and he has lived up to every expectation I had. He was the difference maker today and without him on the court Louisville wouldn’t have won this game. This kid is one of; if not the premiere freshman in college basketball. He leads the Louisville offense like he’s played for four years. After today it is very clear that he is our best option for point guard going forward. He played 22 minutes today shot over 60%, had 11 points, 6 rebounds, 1 steal, two assist(including game winning) and didn’t have any turnovers. In 536 minutes played this season he only has 15 turnovers. Unreal for a freshman. I get giddy when I think about this kid as a sophomore.
Montrezl Harrell is also a kid that has grown up before our eyes. He has also become one of the premiere big men in college basketball. Today he had his 7th double-double of the season leading the way with 21 points and 10 rebounds. We better enjoy these next few weeks with him because he will be headed to the NBA next season.
And you can’t say enough about the production Mango and VanTreese have provided in that 5 spot. Coach Pitino said that in order for this team to have a shot that it would have to be these guys who stepped up their games. They have answered his call and have had 35 rebounds and 33 points in the last four games. Drastic improvement from these guys especially Mango who is really starting to play more aggressive.
Last but certainly not least is the player that I’ve had more enjoyment following and watching than any other in my lifetime Russ Smith. I am a firm believer in Karma and today our Hero got some good as he was able to hit the game winning shot. This guy has given his heart and his soul to the University of Louisville and in a era of the one and done has proven that it can still happen the old fashion way. He epitomizes the Louisville First brand and he deserved that moment today more than anyone. I am really gonna hurt when we have to tell him good-bye in a few weeks but it’s been a helluva ride. He finished today with 10 points, 3 rebounds, 5 assist, and 3 steals.
Man what a game! A fitting end to what has been an incredible series. Our grandfathers, fathers and now we have got to watch the Cardinals and Bearcats do battle. I hope that this rivalry can continue in the future so my son can also watch these teams go at it. College sports are all about rivalries and this is one of the best.
The beards keep growing and it’s on to the next as the Cardinals look to run the table and possibly still claim that number one seed. This was a great win today folks. Enjoy the rest of this day and wear that Cardinal gear with pride. No Shave Till Dallas!
