LOUISVILLE, Ky. — In a commanding performance, Terrence Edwards Jr. led the way for Louisville, scoring 27 points while also contributing 10 assists with only two turnovers. The Cardinals maintained control throughout most of the game, ultimately defeating a struggling Miami team 88-78 on Saturday.

Reyne Smith added 26 points, and J’Vonne Hadley chipped in 12 for Louisville, which now holds an impressive record of 18-6 overall and 11-2 in the ACC. The team showcased their offensive efficiency, shooting 49.3% from the field (33 for 67) and an impressive 91.7% (11 for 12) from the free-throw line.

For Miami, reserve A.J. Staton-McCray scored 22 points while Matthew Cleveland contributed 21 points and both Lynn Kidd and Divine Ugochukwu scored 10 points each. Notably, Cleveland has now scored over 20 points in six consecutive games, highlighting his offensive capabilities despite the team’s struggles.

The Cardinals set the tone in the first half with a shooting percentage of 54.1% (20 for 37), as Edwards, who was 6 for 9 from the field, netted 15 points during this period. However, Louisville guard Chucky Hepburn was sidelined due to a groin injury sustained just minutes into the second half during a recent road victory against Boston College.

In Hepburn’s absence, Noah Waterman stepped up dramatically, executing a slam dunk followed by a three-pointer, helping the Cardinals to a 19-14 lead with 11:51 left before halftime. By the end of the first half, Louisville held a 46-38 advantage.

While Miami did attempt a comeback with a quick 14-6 run early in the second half, bringing the score to 52-49, they were unable to close the gap further.

Looking ahead, Miami will be facing Syracuse on Tuesday, while Louisville is set to travel to play N.C. State on Wednesday.