Another yawner, the University of Louisville basketball team blowing out still another Atlantic Coast Conference opponent. Boston College the latest victim by a score of 90-67.
Far too easy of late, resembling some of the winning streaks in the Metro and Conference USA days. Wins are not supposed to come this easily in the ACC. Treasuring each one, however, knowing that there will be some major obstacles straight ahead.
What kept the game interesting was the performance of Deng Adel who seemed to be making up for lost time, scoring in every way possible, living up to the promise expected of him. He would share game scoring honors with Donovan Mitchell with 19 points each.
Signs of a newfound shooting touch from the sophomore forward from Australia. No reluctance, going for it but playing within the system, connecting on seven of 10 field goal attempts, including three of four 3-point shots, and two of two at the free throw line.
“Coach said we needed to step up,” said Adel afterwards. “He told me to be aggressive so that’s what we did.”
Mitchell, meanwhile, was quietly having a very efficient game himself, dishing out four assists, making four rebounds and three steals. He was making seven of 10 field goal attempts as well, including two 3-pointers, and all three of his free throws.
Mangok Mathiang getting in on the act, scoring 16 points on seven of 11 shot attempts. And, yes, two of two free throw attempts.
One never knows which UofL player is going to have a break out game. Don’t be surprised when freshman V. J. King does. He hasn’t been scoring much but when he does he makes it look easy, winding up with 11 points against Boston College.
Louisville travels to Virginia on Monday for a crucial game.. The Cardinals and Cavaliers, with 7-3 conference marks, are tied with Florida State for second place in the ACC. North Carolina is first with an 8-2 conference record.
No danger of anyone nodding off in that one. The odds of another runaway are remote.