PORTLAND, OR – 4-seed Louisville survived a low-scoring slug-fest with 5-seed New Mexico to advance to the Sweet Sixteen with a 59-56 triumph in their NCAA Tournament West Regional 3rd round game.
Russ Smith’s 17 points eclipsed his scoring average by nearly six to pace the Cardinals (28-9). Louisville will face the winner of the 3rd round game between Michigan State and St. Louis.
Drew Gordon totaled 21 points to lead New Mexico (28-6) in a losing effort.
Kevin Calabro and Bill Frieder called the action on the Westwood One Radio Network.