Preston Knowles, Louisville Cardinals Charge Back Against Marquette In Big East

The Louisville Cardinals mount a 24-5 run in the last five-and-a-half minutes to seal the victory against conference rival Marquette.

Senior guard Preston Knowles brought the Cardinals to life with his 17 points, with 15 of those points coming in the second half.

Opening with a dismal start to the second half, it appeared as though Louisville (14-3, 3-1 Big East) would be well on their way to their second consecutive loss, as they trailed by 18 with six minutes left. Jimmy Butler and Darius Johnson-Odom, who scored 15 and 16 points, respectively, powered the Marquette offense to holding a steady lead most of the way.

Then, after a steal and breakaway dunk by Stephan Van Treese, the Cardinals began a fast paced run that was classic Rick Pitino basketball: drain three-pointers and get turnovers off the press.

Knowles made four three-pointers with five minutes left, jump-starting the Cardinals offensively.  Terrence Jennings also contributed late in the game, with six rebounds and four free throws made while still behind. The game was sealed by an underneath open basket by Kyle Kuric with four seconds left.

Marquette’s Butler took one last shot, which edged the rim as time expired.

After a tough road loss against top-10 Villanova, this comeback win massively helps Louisville (14-3, 3-1 Big East), as they stay in the Top 25 and near the top of the Big East.  

The Cardinals play next Wednesday against Steve Lavin’s St. John’s Red Storm in the KFC Yum! Center.