Hearing the news yesterday about one of my favorite Cardinals was shocking and my heart goes out to him, his wife and his family. Kyle Kuric is a “Louisville Man” and gave it his very best every time he put on the uniform. He was a big reason for an impromptu Final Four in 2012 and had one moment that will cement him forever in the Cardinal history books.
Freedom Hall was the home of the Louisville Cardinals for 54 years. If the walls could talk they would tell stories about the six national title games and regional titles that where held there. They would also have some great stories about the 683 victories that our Cardinals had while calling the place home. In those 683 victories there are some very memorable moments but the one that happened on March 6th 2010 might just be one of the best of them all.
#1 Syracuse would be the final opponent to visit the hallowed Hall. The moment for a big game like this couldn’t have been more fitting. The stage was set and it was time for the show to begin. The Syracuse stars lived up to their ranking in the first half dominating the Cardinals inside the paint 26 to 12. At one point in the first half Cuse would stretch the lead to 8 but a shot by Edgar Sosa would cut the lead to 5 to end the half at 35-30.
With things looking much the same early in the second half with the score 42-39 the Cardinals found their inside game and an unlikely hero would emerge from the bench. Then reserve Kyle Kuric would put his stamp on the Louisville program with a second half performance that will live forever in Cardinal lore. Kuric was described as a one man wrecking crew by all publications as he made 9 of 11 shots from the field with four of those being 3 pointers.
The Cardinals would take the lead in the second half and never look back. With 4 minutes left king Kyle would put a bow on his performance with a dunk that would put the Cardinals up 10. The final score would be 78-68 beating #1 Syracuse and adding one last highlight to their 54 year old home.
This game had all the pageantry for a final home game in one of the most storied venues in all of college sports. “It’s an unbelievable moment,” Kuric said. “It’s what every kid dreams of.” Rick Pitino would say of the moment “this building will close, but what our legends have done for our university will never pass and close.”
When you hear that a guy who brought you so much excitement is ill it makes you wish you could do something to give back to him. Besides your thoughts and prayers there is something else Cardinal Nation can do. You can send Kyle Kuric a message of support to the below address.
Fans can send cards/letter for Kyle Kuric to this address:
Kyle Kuric
c/o Dr. Kuric
4001 Kresge Way, Suite 238
Louisville KY 40207
#L1C4
I know Kyle is getting the best medical help and I know that his courage and drive will get him through this challenging time. Be sure to send him your support letter. He will have his brain surgery on Thursday so keep those prayers going up as well.