Louisville BB Legend Milt Wagner Keeps 1986 Win Streak Alive

Wagner's clutch free throws sealed a dramatic 70-69 victory over Memphis State.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 6:05pm

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In the final regular season game of Louisville's 1985-86 NCAA championship season, the Cardinals narrowly defeated Memphis State 70-69 thanks to a pair of clutch free throws by Milt Wagner in the closing seconds. The win extended Louisville's win streak to 17 games as they headed into the Metro Conference tournament.

Why it matters

The dramatic victory over Memphis State was a key moment in Louisville's championship run, showcasing the team's resilience and the leadership of veteran guard Milt Wagner. The game also highlighted the passionate fan support at Freedom Hall, which hosted a then-record crowd of over 19,000.

The details

With just seconds remaining and Louisville clinging to a one-point lead, Memphis State's Andre Turner missed a free throw that would have given the Tigers the lead. Louisville's Billy Thompson rebounded the ball and found Milt Wagner, who was fouled on his shot attempt. Wagner calmly sank both free throws to seal the 70-69 victory for the Cardinals.

  • The regular season finale against Memphis State took place on March 2, 1986.
  • Louisville's 17-game win streak lasted from February 10 to March 31, 1986.
  • The Metro Conference tournament, hosted at Freedom Hall, followed the regular season finale.

The players

Milt Wagner

A veteran guard for the Louisville Cardinals, known for his clutch free throw shooting and leadership on the team.

Billy Thompson

A Louisville forward who rebounded the ball and found Milt Wagner for the game-winning free throws.

Andre Turner

A Memphis State player who missed a crucial free throw in the closing seconds that could have given the Tigers the lead.

Denny Crum

The head coach of the Louisville Cardinals, who praised Milt Wagner's ability to perform under pressure.

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What they’re saying

“I've said before there's no player I'd rather have at the free throw line under pressure than Milt Wagner. That's why they call him Ice – he's always been able to come through in those situations for us.”

— Denny Crum, Louisville Head Coach

What’s next

Louisville went on to win the Metro Conference tournament, hosted at Freedom Hall, and then defeated Duke, Kansas, and LSU in the NCAA tournament to claim the national championship.

The takeaway

Milt Wagner's clutch performance in the regular season finale against Memphis State was a defining moment in Louisville's 1986 championship season, showcasing the team's resilience and the leadership of its veteran players. The dramatic victory in front of a record Freedom Hall crowd highlighted the passionate support for the Cardinals and set the stage for their postseason run to the national title.