(Indianapolis, IN) – Kentucky proved ‘state superiority Friday night with a ‘Sweet Sixteen’ win over Louisville, giving them a two-game sweep over their bitter rivals. The Wildcats put on a furious comeback over the final 5:32 to pull out a 74 to 69 win and earn a trip to Sunday’s ‘Elite Eight’ game against Michigan.
John Calipari
Kentucky trailed by 7 points with 4:33 to play and bullied their way to offensive rebounds and clutch three-point baskets for the win. Alex Poythress didn’t score until there 4:10 left in the game and he provided the finishing kick with 6 late points and a blocked shot. Julius Randle started slowly but worked his way to a double-double with 15 points and 12 rebounds.
Head Coach John Calipari said Poythress won the game for Kentucky.
Poythress’ free throw gave the team their first lead (67-66) since they led 2 to 0. After a Russ Smith jumper regained the lead for Louisville, an Aaron Harrison trey gave Kentucky a lead they would never relinquish.
Louisville struggled at the free throw line (13 for 23) and allowed the Wildcats to grab 15 offensive rebounds. Head Coach Rick Pitino said those were the two factors that cost his team the win.
Four Wildcats reached double figures with Dakari Johnson and Aaron Harrison matching Randle’s team high 15 point total and Andrew Harrison scoring 14. Russ Smith scored 23 and Luke Hancock scored 19 in defeat.
Kentucky swept their bitter rivals in an electric atmosphere at Lucas Oil Stadium. They will tangle with Michigan on Sunday for a chance to head back to the Final Four.
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