The Louisville women's basketball program has consistently shown its prowess, proving it can hold its own against the nation's elite teams. This season, their competitive spirit was particularly evident in a tight two-point defeat against South Carolina, a game that, despite being a loss, highlighted their strength and resilience. This performance, among others, has positioned them favorably for the upcoming NCAA Tournament.
ESPN bracketologist Charlie Creme emphasized that Louisville's narrow loss to South Carolina, where they were just a missed three-pointer away from victory, was arguably their most impressive showing. South Carolina, known for overwhelming opponents with an average winning margin of over 31 points, found themselves in a genuine contest against Louisville. This ability to challenge a dominant force like South Carolina underscores Louisville's competitive caliber and their potential to go deep in the tournament.
As the regular season draws to a close, Louisville, currently ranked 12th in the NET rankings, boasts an exceptional record, including a perfect 8-0 on the road. Their season is marked by significant victories and a remarkable 14-game winning streak, during which they triumphed over three ranked opponents. While a recent loss to Virginia added a minor blemish, their other four defeats came against highly-ranked teams, often in close contests. This competitive performance in losses, alongside their substantial wins, strengthens their resume for the NCAA Tournament selection committee.
Initially projected as a No. 4 seed, Louisville has surpassed expectations. While a recent shift places them as a No. 3 seed in ESPN's bracketology after the Virginia loss, the team has a clear path to reclaim a No. 2 seed. By winning their remaining regular-season games and reaching the ACC Tournament championship, they could significantly boost their seeding. With a secured No. 2 seed and a double bye in the ACC Tournament, they are well-positioned to make a strong run.
Looking ahead, Louisville faces Georgia Tech on Thursday and Notre Dame on Sunday in their final regular-season matchups. Following these, they will compete in the ACC Tournament quarterfinals on March 6. Their strong season performance suggests they are a strong candidate to host the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament, a significant advantage they last held in 2022, provided they avoid an unexpected early exit from the ACC Tournament.
The Cardinals' consistent performance, resilience in tough matchups, and strong record against various quadrant teams illustrate their readiness for postseason play. Their ability to exceed initial expectations and maintain a high level of competition throughout the season has made them a team to watch as March Madness approaches, with their sights set firmly on a deep tournament run.