Louisville women's basketball tops UNC to reach ACC Tournament title game

Jeff Walz's Cardinals defeated the Tar Heels in the ACC Tournament semifinal

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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The Louisville women's basketball team defeated the North Carolina Tar Heels 65-57 in the ACC Tournament semifinals. Imari Berry led the Cardinals with 22 points and a double-double, helping UofL reach the tournament championship game for the first time since 2023. The Cardinals will face top-seeded Duke for the league tournament crown on Sunday.

Why it matters

This win for the Louisville women's basketball team marks their first appearance in the ACC Tournament championship game since 2023, showcasing the program's continued success under head coach Jeff Walz. The Cardinals' victory over a tough North Carolina squad also sets up an intriguing title matchup against powerhouse Duke.

The details

Louisville and North Carolina were neck-and-neck in the first half, with four ties in the opening 10 minutes. But the Cardinals pulled away in the third quarter, outscoring the Tar Heels 17-13 to create the separation they needed. Despite a late comeback attempt by UNC, Louisville was able to ice the game at the free throw line.

  • The game was played on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
  • The championship game against Duke is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

The players

Imari Berry

The Louisville women's basketball guard led the team with 22 points and a double-double in the semifinal win over North Carolina.

Jeff Walz

The head coach of the Louisville women's basketball team, who has guided the program to its first ACC Tournament championship game appearance since 2023.

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What’s next

The Louisville women's basketball team will face top-seeded Duke in the ACC Tournament championship game on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at 1 p.m.

The takeaway

Louisville's victory over North Carolina in the ACC Tournament semifinals demonstrates the Cardinals' ability to win tough games against quality opponents, setting the stage for an exciting championship matchup against powerhouse Duke.