1. Louisville will take advantage of USF defense
The final factor is USF’s defense, which has struggled due to its fast-paced style. The Bulls allow over 76 points per game and rank outside the top 100 in several defensive categories. Opponents average 8.3 made threes on 24.3 attempts per game, both ranking in the bottom 100 nationally.
USF also allows nearly 62 shot attempts per game, placing them in the bottom 50 in that category. That plays directly into Louisville’s strengths, as the Cardinals already average 61 shot attempts per game (54th nationally), a number that could increase in this matchup.
Overall, USF’s offensive style creates opportunities on both ends of the floor. While the Bulls can score, they also give opponents more chances to do the same. Against a Louisville team that thrives on efficiency and can match tempo, that trade-off could be decisive. If Ryan Conwell and Adrian Wooley can shoot effectively, the Cardinals should have the edge needed to move on to the second round.