What Louisville HC Kenny Payne Said Following Syracuse’s 94-92 Loss,See what the Cardinals’ head coach had to say following their defeat over the Orange.
In Syracuse, New York, the Louisville men’s basketball team showcased evident defensive struggles during their away game against Syracuse, resulting in a 94-92 defeat at the JMA Wireless Dome.
Following the loss, Head Coach Kenny Payne praised Syracuse for their hard play and effective attacks, particularly in the paint. Despite acknowledging the team’s overall effort and some standout individual performances, such as Tre White, Brandon Huntley-Hatfield, and Skyy Clark, Payne expressed disappointment in falling just short of victory against a home team with a 10-1 record.
When addressing the need for defensive improvement, Payne emphasized continuous work, drills, and the importance of discipline in practice. He stressed the collective responsibility of the team to excel defensively, acknowledging inevitable breakdowns and the necessity for players to cover for each other. Payne highlighted the significance of communication and diligence in executing defensive strategies.
Regarding the team’s composure, especially in critical moments, Payne acknowledged both positive and negative aspects. While noting progress in playing to win rather than playing not to lose, he urged the team to be smarter, avoid fouling shooters, and make better decisions, particularly in shot selection.
On the disputed end-of-game goaltending call, Payne shared the officials’ viewpoint but expressed skepticism, insisting on reviewing the footage himself. He emphasized the team’s focus on creating their own opportunities rather than relying on favorable calls.
Addressing the issue of porous fastbreak defense, Payne identified turnovers as a primary concern, leading to opponent baskets. He stressed the need for improved ball control and highlighted the delicate balance between attacking the lane and maintaining floor balance. Payne emphasized the importance of communication to prevent scoring opportunities for the opponents in transition after successful offensive plays.
