Louisville Survives and Advances in ACC Tournament

Cardinals overcome cold shooting night to defeat SMU 62-58

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Louisville men's basketball team earned a hard-fought 62-58 victory over SMU in the second round of the ACC Tournament. Despite shooting poorly from the field, the Cardinals found a way to win and advance to the next round.

Why it matters

This win keeps Louisville's hopes alive for an ACC Tournament championship and potential higher seed in the NCAA Tournament. The Cardinals proved they can win even when their shots aren't falling, showcasing the team's resilience and defensive prowess.

The details

Louisville trailed for much of the game, but a late 6-0 run by Vangelis Zougris helped spark the comeback. The Cardinals limited SMU star Boopie Miller to just 4-of-17 shooting on the night. Adrian Wooley had a strong game at the free throw line, going 7-of-8.

  • The game was played on March 11, 2026 in the second round of the ACC Tournament.

The players

Pat Kelsey

The head coach of the Louisville Cardinals men's basketball team.

Vangelis Zougris

A Louisville player who had a strong performance off the bench, including a key 6-0 run to help spark the comeback.

Isaac McKneely

A Louisville player who discussed adjusting to the team's fast-paced style of play and his confidence in his teammates.

Adrian Wooley

A Louisville player who was effective at drawing fouls and getting to the free throw line, going 7-of-8 on the night.

Boopie Miller

The star player for SMU who was held in check by Louisville's defense, shooting just 4-of-17 from the field.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“A lot of credit to SMU. Andy is a really good coach. We played down at their place a couple weeks ago, and they just kicked the crap out of us. So ton of respect for them. Their offensive firepower is as good as anybody in the country.”

— Pat Kelsey, Head Coach (si.com)

“Just being there every day, same attitude, same mentality, I try to keep showing up every day, and that's what I did. I think it's paying off right now.”

— Vangelis Zougris, Player (si.com)

“Credit to him, credit to these guys beside me, they played really well today, make it really easy on me. Zeus sets the best screens in the country so he gets me a lot of open shots.”

— Isaac McKneely, Player (si.com)

What’s next

Louisville will face Miami in the quarterfinals of the ACC Tournament on March 12, 2026.

The takeaway

This game showcased Louisville's resilience and defensive prowess, as the Cardinals found a way to win despite an off shooting night. The team's veteran leadership and ability to make key plays down the stretch will serve them well as they continue their postseason run.