When the tip-off started the extra period, it quickly became clear that the Cardinals were done. Despite a strong 40 minutes, collapse was the word to best describe U of L’s effort in OT. Buzzed from an early three-pointer, the Fighting Irish scored 14 unanswered to begin overtime. Regulation and overtime looked like two completely different games. While it is another loss, the Cardinals hung tough in an extremely hostile situation and continue to prove their mettle.
Junior Kyle Kuric led the Cards with 28 points, including an electrifying dunk to end the first half. Kuric earned a technical for staring down Irish guard Scott Martin following the dunk. The call was questionable. It was clear that Kuric said nothing to Scott and no taunting motion was made. Kuric simply looked down then jogged away. Kyle Kuric is the nicest player on the team, and there was absolutely no ill will in his eyes while he glanced down at Scott.
The final play of regulation looked eerily similar to the final play of the Kentucky-Florida game. Both ended in three point attempts a couple feet away from the arc. Preston Knowles missed the final shot, part of a forgettable 5 for 17 return from his ankle injury. While Terrence Jennings played great, the Cards really were hurting for an extra big man with both Gorgui Dieng and Rakeem Buckles still out.
The Cardinals now return home for the #13th ranked Syracuse Orangemen. The Cards need another top notch win to add to their resume to put the lock on a trip to the NCAA Tourney. Buckles and Dieng are both expected to return for the big match-up and should be a big help to the Cardinal rebounding woes.
Clint Hurtt Gets Credit Where Credit is Due
Football Coach Charlie Strong has made no bones on who is to thank for his stellar recruiting class. Coach Clint Hurtt developed tight bonds with countless prospect in South Florida and capitalized when Miami underwent a coaching change to bring players up to the Ville. His supremacy in the Sunshine State is why ESPN.com named him its recruiter of the year.
