The Cardinals soar over the Irish.

The Louisville Women’s Basketball team defeated Notre Dame in the ACC Championship game.

The women’s team celebrates their first ACC championship title. Former Bullitt East student shares her victory experience with teammates. Local fans show support and recognition towards the ladies.

On Sunday, the Louisville Women’s Basketball team faced off against Notre Dame in the ACC Championship game. The Cardinals have never made it to the finals of the ACC Tournament before. Each Louisville starter scored in double figures. The Cards defeated the Irish 74-72.

Asia Durr, ACC player of the year, hit four free throws in the final seconds helping her team achieve the victory. Overall, Durr scored 17 points. The Cardinals shot 45 percent against the Irish. Another leading scorer during the game was Arica Carter, finishing with a total of 16 points.

Even though former East student Lindsey Duvall is a redshirt this year, she has been supporting her team every step of the way. “It’s such a great privilege to be a part of such a great team with such great players,” said Duvall. Duvall has motivated her team every step of the way, cheering as loud as she can on the sidelines of the court. “I think we will be very well prepared for the NCAA tournament. We have a great coaching staff that delivers us a great game plan,” said Duvall. Duvall is hopeful that the fan base will show out and support the cards in the first two rounds of the NCAA tournament. As for next year’s season, Duvall is excited to bring her hard work to the court.

The Louisville fans have been through difficult controversy dealing with the men’s team, so this victory for the women’s is a big relief. Some fans around town have travelled along the journey with the ladies, while some show equal support right at home on the TV.

Mark Oechsli, Louisville fan for over 25 years, has travelled with the women through their ACC journey. “This team is the most special and talented ever at Louisville. I expect them to play great defense and make a strong run to the final,” said Oechsli. Oechsli plans to travel with the Lady Cardinals for the NCAA Tournament, starting March 23. “As for supporting the basketball team, we need to fill the KFC Yum! Center for first two NCAA rounds,” said Oechsli. The Cards are predicted to be a number one seed and make it far into the NCAA tournament.