3 things we learned: UK 69, UofL 61

Kentucky+Wildcats+forward+Anthony+Davis+goes+for+a+layup+during+the+first+half+of+the+UK+vs.+Louisville+National+Semi-finals+at+the+Super+Dome+in+New+Orleans%2C+Louisiana+March+31%2C+2012..+Photo+by+Brandon+Goodwin

Kentucky Wildcats forward Anthony Davis goes for a layup during the first half of the UK vs. Louisville National Semi-finals at the Super Dome in New Orleans, Louisiana March 31, 2012.. Photo by Brandon Goodwin

By David Schuh

  • This game proved more than any other how much UK’s offense has improved since New Year’s Eve. The Cats again shot more than 50 percent from the field, which may have been the difference in the game. This Louisville team has been known to struggle on offense, and the Cats efficiency was the key to the win. The Cats didn’t shoot as well from the 3-point line as they did the past two games, but they attacked the Louisville frontcourt and put up enough points to keep the game out of reach.
  • The player of the year showed why he’s so good. Anthony Davis played a big game on the biggest of stages. He finished with 18 points, 14 rebounds and five blocks. His play on both sides of the court was crucial to holding the Cards off.
  • When challenged in the second half, the young Cats answered the call. Louisville tied the game with nine minutes left, but UK answered, holding the Cardinals to two points for the next six minutes. Davis’ defense inside was key, forcing Louisville to settle for outside jumpers the majority of the second half. The freshmen held their poise, and the Cats move on to the National Championship on Monday night.