The Louisville men’s basketball team will compete for the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament title on Friday, following a thrilling overtime win against West Virginia. Despite a slow start and struggles with outside shooting, the Cards mounted an 11-point comeback in the second half. Point guard Chucky Hepburn was the standout player, scoring a career-high 32 points and grabbing six steals, while also drawing 13 fouls to earn 17 free throws, making 14. His performance helped Louisville overcome a tough shooting night, where they made just 7-of-28 (25%) from three-point range, and kept West Virginia’s Javon Small to 26 points and seven assists.
The first half was a defensive struggle, reminiscent of old Big East matchups, with West Virginia leading 28-24 at the break. The second half featured more offense, and both teams exchanged runs. In overtime, Louisville took control early, with Reyne Smith hitting a three-pointer off an offensive rebound. Hepburn then scored the next six points, including a three-point play, while Kasean Pryor added a key steal and layup. Hepburn sealed the win with free throws.
Smith finished with 15 points, hitting four threes, while Pryor contributed 13 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks. Terrence Edwards added 10 points and seven rebounds. Louisville advances to the Battle 4 Atlantis final for the third time in as many appearances and will face either Arizona or Oklahoma for the championship.
