Louisville’s defense fails, allowing Syracuse to win./cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72880077/1800922552.0.jpg)
In an away game against Syracuse in upstate New York, the Louisville men’s basketball team faced a setback, losing 94-92 at the JMA Wireless Dome on Wednesday night. The Cardinals, with a current record of 7-16 (2-10 ACC), had recently broken a six-game losing streak by defeating Florida State but struggled defensively against Syracuse, now marking 13 losses in their last 16 games since starting the season at 4-3.
Despite a commendable offensive and rebounding performance by Louisville, shooting 53.8 percent from the field and dominating the boards with a 40-21 advantage, their defensive woes allowed Syracuse to shoot an impressive 60.8 percent and convert 10-of-22 three-point attempts. The Orange capitalized on free throws, going 22-of-33 compared to Louisville’s 11-of-15, and capitalized on 17 forced turnovers, garnering 23 points.
The game’s conclusion was controversial, as Skyy Clark’s game-tying three-pointer was followed by a disputed goaltending call on a block attempt by Kaleb Glenn. Despite replay evidence suggesting a clean block, the officials upheld the call. Louisville had a final chance for a game-winning three at the buzzer, but Clark’s attempt fell short. Clark led Louisville in scoring with 23 points, supported by Brandon Huntley-Hatfield’s 19-point and 13-rebound double-double, Tre White’s 17 points and 12 rebounds, and Mike James’ 12 points. Syracuse’s Chris Bell led all scorers with a career-high 30 points.
The first half of the game saw both teams exchanging runs, with eight lead changes and six ties by halftime. Despite Louisville’s 10 turnovers leading to 13 points for Syracuse, their rebounding prowess provided 12 second-chance points.
Looking ahead, Louisville will return home for a matchup against Georgia Tech at the KFC Yum! Center on Saturday, Feb. 10, with tip-off scheduled for 6:30 p.m. EST.
