Louisville Battles Boston College: Game Preview

The Louisville Cardinals (11-4, 1-2) are set to face off against the Boston College Eagles (7-8, 0-2) at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky. This matchup promises excitement as Louisville enters the game as a favorite by 22.5 points.

Series History

Historically, Louisville holds an edge over Boston College in their matchups, leading the series 11-8. In their most recent encounter on February 5, 2025, Louisville secured a decisive victory with a score of 84-58 in Chestnut Hill.

Projected Lineups

• Louisville Cardinals:
  • G Adrian Wooley (6-4, 200, So.)
  • G Isaac McKneely (6-4, 195, Sr.)
  • G Ryan Conwell (6-4, 215, Sr.)
  • F J’Vonne Hadley (6-7, 210, Sr.)
  • C Sananda Fru (6-11, 245, Jr.)
• Boston College Eagles:
  • G Fred Payne (6-1, 185, So.)
  • G Luka Toews (6-1, 190, So.)
  • G Donald Hand Jr. (6-5, 210, Jr.)
  • F Jayden Hastings (6-9, 240, So.)
  • C Boden Kapke (6-11, 255, Jr.)

Boston College’s Season Overview

Boston College is struggling significantly this season under head coach Earl Grant. Entering the weekend, they rank last in the ACC across several metrics. Currently rated 159 on KenPom, they represent the lowest ranking among power conference teams.

The Eagles have had a tough season thus far, recording losses to teams like Florida Atlantic, LSU, and Tulane. Their current conference play has not yielded success, starting off with two consecutive losses.

Key Players

Despite the struggles, Donald Hand Jr. remains a bright spot for Boston College. Averaging 15.5 points per game, he is viewed as a promising talent for future transfers. However, his shooting percentages are down, and he recently struggled with turnovers in a game against NC State.

The Eagles also rely on Fred Payne, noted for his playmaking abilities and outside shooting skills. Yet, the team lacks offensive depth, ranking 275th in the nation for adjusted offensive efficiency.

Defensive Strengths

While Boston College’s offensive performance is concerning, they excel defensively, particularly around the rim. The Eagles have a 2-point percentage defense ranking of 35th nationally and a block percentage ranking of 34th. Their game plan focuses on slowing the pace and minimizing fouls.

Coaching Records and Milestones

• Coach Pat Kelsey is 168-65 in conference play and aims for his 300th career victory with a win on Saturday.
• Boston College has an all-time record of 8-17 on January 10th, with their last outing resulting in a loss to Syracuse in 2024.
• Louisville has yet to lose when leading with five minutes left in a game under Kelsey, boasting a 38-0 record in such scenarios.

As Louisville prepares to take on Boston College, their goal will be to control the game tempo and utilize their offensive depth to overpower a struggling Eagles squad. The matchup has the potential for significant implications in the conference standings.