Louisville Cardinals vs Eastern Kentucky Colonels Picks and Predictions December 28th 2024

Louisville looking for another 3-point flurry vs. EKU

Coming off back-to-back stellar shooting performances, Louisville has the chance to match last season’s win total when they host Eastern Kentucky (EKU) this Saturday afternoon.

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Louisville’s Hot Streak Behind the Arc

The Cardinals (7-5) have caught fire from beyond the arc, making a combined 29 three-pointers in their last two games. After sinking 14 threes in a hard-fought loss to then-No. 5 Kentucky on Dec. 14, Louisville upped the ante by hitting 15 of 29 triples in a decisive 90-76 win over Florida State on Dec. 21.

Reyne Smith was electric off the bench against Florida State, draining six treys, while Terrence Edwards showcased his long-range talent with five three-pointers in the loss to Kentucky.

“We played with great poise,” head coach Pat Kelsey said after the Florida State win. “Our guys did an excellent job finding open shooters, especially when someone had a hot hand.”

Edwards’ Resurgence Fuels Louisville

Edwards has been a revelation since overcoming a shooting slump earlier in the season. After a tough 2-for-13 outing against Ole Miss on Dec. 3 led to him losing his starting spot, he has rebounded with consistent performances, scoring 21, 22, 23, and 19 points in his last four games. His effort has earned him a return to the starting lineup, making him a key player to watch against EKU.

Meanwhile, Chucky Hepburn, who has connected on seven threes in the last two games, continues to lead the Cardinals in scoring with 15.3 points per game. Edwards provides a strong second option, averaging 14.3 points.

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EKU Eyes an Upset

Eastern Kentucky (6-6) is preparing for a major test against Louisville before beginning Atlantic Sun Conference play. The Colonels are fresh off a 91-80 loss to Jacksonville State on Dec. 21 but showed flashes of offensive brilliance.

Senior Devontae Blanton put on a show, scoring a career-high 36 points on 13-of-26 shooting. With 1,707 career points, Blanton is a cornerstone of the program, leading EKU with 16.4 points per game this season.

“Devontae is a special story,” EKU coach A.W. Hamilton said earlier this year. “He’s one of the guys who stuck with the program and made it his home. He could play anywhere in the country, but he chose to stay at Eastern. He’ll go down as one of the best players in program history.”

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Louisville’s 3-Point Barrage vs. EKU’s Perimeter Defense
   The Cardinals have been lethal from deep, averaging 14.5 made threes in their last two games. EKU must tighten their perimeter defense to avoid falling behind early.
2. Devontae Blanton vs. Louisville’s Defense
   Blanton’s ability to dominate offensively could pose challenges for the Cardinals. Louisville must find ways to limit his scoring while containing EKU’s supporting cast.
3. Terrence Edwards’ Momentum
   Edwards’ resurgence has been a critical boost for Louisville. His confidence and scoring touch could be decisive if he continues his current form.

Louisville’s Dominance in the Series

Louisville holds a commanding 50-22 all-time record against EKU. This historical dominance underscores the Cardinals’ stature in the matchup, but EKU’s determination and Blanton’s leadership could make for a closer contest.

What’s at Stake

For Louisville, maintaining their red-hot shooting and securing another win would be a major confidence booster as they push toward conference play. For EKU, a victory would be a monumental upset and a testament to Blanton’s leadership heading into the Atlantic Sun season.

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Conclusion

The clash between Louisville and EKU promises an intriguing matchup of styles. Louisville will look to ride their three-point momentum, while EKU leans on Blanton’s scoring ability to keep the game competitive. If the Cardinals continue their shooting brilliance, they could secure an eighth win. However, an inspired performance from Blanton and EKU could make this a closer game than expected.