Complete run-aways are rare in college basketball these days, even more rare for the University of Louisville which prides itself on defense and, more often than not, struggles on offense.
Not this night.
UofL had its act together, clicking on all cylinders, denying the Panthers any semblance of self-respect in a 106-51 win on Pitt’s home court Tuesday. Louisville jumping on top 51-18 at the half and never looking back.
Such a thorough and complete trouncing that Pitt coach Kevin Stallings had had enough, collecting two early technical fouls, allowed to leave the game early. Actually he was ejected, but he really didn’t want to be there.
Donovan Mitchell, highly motivated following a six-point performance in the loss to Florida State, taking his game to a new level. Fearless, aggressive, confident, his best collegiate performance with 29 total points, including hitting six of eight shots from behind the 3-point line.
Anas Mahmoud, resembling Kareem Abdul-Jabbar at times, making up for a disappearing act against Florida State. Some day soon, hopefully in late March, he’s going to put three or four good games together. Making all seven of his shots in this one for 14 points. Couple of blocks, one of them traveling half way down court, and two steals.
Ryan McMahon maybe providing a preview of his future, drilling five of eight 3-point attempts. Five assists is equally impressive.
Louisville has now won the last 10 games against Pittsburgh. Never taking the Panthers lightly, unfortunately for them.