ACC top match-up: Louisville defeats Notre Dame 100-67

Louisville dominated the night, securing a 100-67 victory over Notre Dame. The 33 point win over the higher-ranked Fighting Irish was the Cardinals’ first top five victory at home in history under the direction of Head Coach Jeff Walz.

Notre Dame simply did not have the means to beat a healthy Louisville tonight.  Injuries heavily impacted team dynamic. Fighting Irish starters played extended minutes due to the shallow bench; only seven scholarship players suited for the game.

Marina Mabrey (Notre Dame) was forced into the point guard position. She played 34 minutes and finished with 14 points and five rebounds.  The intensity and depth of Louisville clearly wore down on her and she became an easy target in later minutes.

Arike Ogunbowale (Notre Dame) was held to 2-9 on the field, and finished with five points. The Irish were offensively led by Jackie Young, who finished with 23 points.

Louisville outnumbered Notre Dame in every single category statistically.  The Cardinals shot 65.1% from the floor, 64.7% from range, while Notre Dame shot 44.3% (FG) and 41.7% (3PT).  Louisville out-rebounded Notre Dame 35 to 25 as well.

The backcourt was the rock of the Louisville victory.  Guard Asia Durr and forward Myisha Hines-Allen scored 36 and 31 points, respectively.  The two combined totaled Notre Dame’s 67 points. Durr went 8-for-10 from three.  Hines-Allen added 12 rebounds to her 31 points, accentuating her versatility.

Tonight, records were set.  Louisville’s 100 point mark makes them the first team to score triple digits against Notre Dame since 1998.  Also, for the first time since 2009, Louisville defeated Notre Dame.

After tonight’s home win, Louisville’s record is unblemished in both conference and on the season (19-0, 5-0).  Notre Dame falls to 15-2, 4-1.  Louisville will face Pittsburgh next on Jan. 18 at 7pm ET.   Notre Dame will host Boston College on Jan. 14 at 1pm ET.