By Chris O’Grady

Louisville blazed past South Alabama University on a snowy Saturday afternoon 97-70, moving the Cards to 6-0 for the first time since 2005.

                “We achieved just about every goal I had for this game,” said head coach Rick Pitino.  “The guys are playing extremely hard right now.”

                Sophomore forward Mike Marra scored a career-high 23 points to lead the Cards.  Though his shot faltered in the second half, Pitino said Marra’s basketball knowledge was the key to his success.

                “The good thing about Mike is he’s a very smart player,” said Pitino.  “Even when his shot wasn’t falling he did things to make the team better.”

                Sophomore point guard Peyton Siva, who Pitino had planned to rest on Saturday, played 25 minutes as reserve Russ Smith was held out with a knee injury.  Siva scored 15 points, also a high for the second year Cardinal.

                “Peyton Siva has been playing great basketball for us, especially in practice,” said Pitino.  “I think this was the first time you guys have gotten to see it, but I’m very proud of where he’s at.  He is becoming a tremendous leader for this team.”

                Louisville never trailed in the game, and Elisha Justice dribbled out the clock just three points short of 100.  Sophomore Rakeem Buckles registered a double-double – his second of the year, with 12 points and 14 rebounds.

                “I was out there trying to get as many boards as I can, it’s something coach has been on me about since the Marshall game,” said Buckles. 

                Sophomore Martino Brock had 24 points to lead the Jaguars, who fell to 2-5.  Freshman center Augustine Rubit had 15 points and 14 rebounds as well.  Buckles spoke about how the team keeps its focus against teams such as South Alabama, against whom they are heavily favored.

                “You just prepare for each team and try to accomplish your goals,” said Buckles.  “And you try to go out and every fun every minute you’re out there.  You practice hard all week and your reward is to play the game.”

                The Cards return to play on Wednesday Dec. 8 against the University of San Francisco at the Yum! Center, but much of the focus will be on an upcoming game against the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, a team coach Pitino says has impressed him as much as any in the country.

                “We’re looking forward to playing Vegas,” said Marra.  “They’re a great team, but we have got to take care of San Francisco first.”