Louisville Basketball vs. Virginia: Everything You Need To Know
By Caleb Hall
The Louisville Cardinals will travel to Charlottesville today as they take on the Virginia Cavaliers, in which both teams are trying to figure out who they are in 2024 (more Louisville than Virginia).
Louisville has lost 4 of their last 5 games, and after losing by 19 points to Kentucky at home, the Cardinals need any answers they can get in playing more quality basketball. As for Virginia, they are in the same spot. The Cavaliers were ranked just a week ago, but after losing by 23 points to Memphis and 22 points to 6-7 Notre Dame they fell out of the rankings and are looking for answers as to what went wrong.
Kenny Payne's leash is getting tighter and tighter at Louisville and any wins at this point will help his very, very improbable cause to stay as the head coach at the end of the year.
Louisville vs. Virginia. UVA -14.5. 10-3 (1-1). 01/03/2023. ESPN2. 5-7 (0-1). 438. 7:00 PM. 446
How Can I Watch/Listen To Louisville vs. Virginia?
- Date: Wednesday, January 3rd
- Time: 7:00 PM
- Venue: John Paul Jones Arena
- TV/Streaming: ESPN2 or FuboTV
- Radio: 93.9 The Ville
What Are The Betting Odds For Louisville vs. Virginia?
As I currently write this article Louisville is a -13.5 point underdog against Virginia, with the over/under being 129.5. Louisville is also +1100 on the moneyline, while Virginia is -2000 on the moneyline.
What Injuries Are Louisville Dealing With?
As with the past couple of weeks, it is unknown whether JJ Traynor or Dennis Evans will suit up for this game against Virginia. Even head coach Kenny Payne said "he doesn't know" when talking about if either of the forwards will play tonight. Louisville needs more forward/center depth later in games, and when playing a team like Virginia having guys like Evans and Traynor would be very helpful.
Final Score Prediction For Louisville vs. Virginia:
Both of these teams have been struggling as of late, but Virginia certainly has the edge, especially when looking at their overall season so far. While the Cavaliers have dropped a couple of duds in the past week, their season before that has been very consistent with wins over Florida, Texas A&M, and Syracuse. While Louisville on the other hand has not had any wins over any power 6 teams.
I expect Louisville to try and capitalize on Virginia's recent struggles, which could result in some good moments for the Cardinals early on. However, Virginia will eventually get it going and put the Cardinals away.
I expect Louisville to keep it close for maybe a half, but Virginia will pull away in the 2nd half and win comfortably. Giving Kenny Payne another loss, and making his future at Louisville even more shaky.