LEXINGTON, Ky. (WDRB) – No. 18-ranked Louisville made just three of its final 18 shots, and went 0-for-6 in overtime, with several costly turnovers, as No. 20 Kentucky erased a seven-point deficit to end a seven-game losing streak in the rivalry with a 71-61 victory.
Georgia Amore, an All-American at Virginia Tech who followed coach Kenny Brooks to Kentucky, led the Wildcats with 19 points and nine assists. Louisville got 14 points from freshman Imari Berry, all in the second half, including three straight three-pointers to put the Cardinals up 46-39 with just over a minute to play in the third quarter.
But Louisville could not continue the hot shooting. The Cardinals seemed determined to pound the ball into the post, where Kentucky, the nation’s shot top-blocking team coming in, blocked nine shots.
Kentucky got all of its scoring from its five starters. Teonni Key had 17 points, Dazka Lawrence 12 and Clara Strack 10.
Louisville got 12 points from Tajianna Roberts and no other player scored in double figures.
Despite forcing 24 Kentucky turnovers, Louisville turned it over 19 times. Kentucky led points in the paint 38-30 and second-chance points 10-3. The game featured six ties and nine lead changes.
Kentucky made 13 of 18 free-throws, including some big ones down the stretch and in overtime. Louisville went 9-for-15 at the line.
Louisville’s next game is at home on Thursday night against Morehead State. Kentucky faces Fort Wayne Monday at 6.
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