Miami- on Jan. 10, 2024, The Miami Hurricanes suffered their first home loss against the Louisville Cardinals.
The Hurricanes came into this game hoping to secure their 3rd ACC win and improve their total record to 12-3, after dropping a close one last week against in-conference opponent Wake Forest.
On the other hand, the Cardinals came into this game with a total record of 5-9(0-3 in ACC play), they came into Miami’s Watsco center also looking to snap a 22 road game losing streak.
The first half started off strong for Louisville with Mike James scoring 16 of the cardinals first 18 points. These points would help give the cardinal a small 20-14 lead.
On the next few possessions for Miami, Guards Bensley Joseph and Kyshawn George splashed two threes to start the Hurricanes 14-3 run.
The two teams would go on to keep battling, as the Miami Hurricanes held on to a small 41-37 lead to end the first half of play.
In the start of the 2nd half of the game, Louisville was able to tie the game at 43 a piece, however an 8-0 Miami Hurricanes run created a solid cushion between the two teams.
With a 56-47 lead, the Hurricanes looked like they were finally going to pull away, however the Cardinals fought and would go on to tie the game being 57-57 with two big time threes from Curtis Williams.
The game would continue back and forth until the Cardinals would go on and pull away, ultimately stunning the Hurricanes 80-71.
Turnovers and handfuls of missed shots caused Miami to lose this game.
Throughout the game both teams had several turnovers with over 11 from both sides, however the Cardinal were able to capitalize on more of their opportunities outscoring the canes 24-13 on turnover points.
Louisville came into hostile territory ready as well as hungry to beat a final four team, they played aggressively, with high intensity and with grit.
Miami will be looking to bounce back in its upcoming games, before having to play powerhouses in UNC along with Duke.
ACC LOOK AHEAD
The Hurricanes will be on the road against the Virginia Tech Hoagies (10-5) on Saturday, Jan. 13 at 7p.m.
The Cardinals will take on the NC State Wolfpack at home on Saturday, Jan. 13 at 12p.m.
STORY AND COVER PHOTO: Fenthon/Top Shot Files
