NCAAB · Final

Louisville Cardinals Edge SMU Mustangs in Close Contest

Wednesday, March 11, 2026, 2:45 PM ET · Spectrum Center

Louisville Cardinals 62, SMU Mustangs 58, final. Our NCAAB picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.

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Quick answers

Who won SMU Mustangs vs Louisville Cardinals?

Louisville Cardinals beat SMU Mustangs 62-58 at Spectrum Center on March 11, 2026.

Who was favored in SMU Mustangs vs Louisville Cardinals?

Louisville Cardinals were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -305 (about 75% implied). The favorite won.

In a tightly contested game, the Louisville Cardinals narrowly defeated the SMU Mustangs with a final score of 62-58. This matchup was particularly noteworthy as it showcased the competitive spirit of both teams, with Louisville improving its record to 24-9 and SMU finishing the season at 20-14. The game took place at the Spectrum Center and was marked by a series of lead changes and clutch plays in the second half.

Louisville came into the game with a recent record of 7-3 over their last ten games, riding a two-game winning streak. They averaged 85.4 points scored per game while allowing 76.6 points during this stretch. Their last five games saw them winning three, with an average of 81.0 points scored and 75.6 points allowed. At home, they maintained a perfect record of 4-0 in their last four games, demonstrating their strong performance on their home court.

On the other hand, SMU had a more mixed form, finishing their last ten games with a record of 5-5 and entering the game with a one-game winning streak. They averaged 81.9 points scored and allowed 78.7 points during this period. In their last five games, they struggled, winning only one and averaging 75.4 points while allowing 81.0 points. Their away record was notably weaker, with just one win in their last five away games.

The two teams had met three times in the previous seasons, with Louisville holding a 2-1 advantage in the head-to-head record. Their most recent encounter prior to this game was on February 18, 2026, where SMU emerged victorious with a score of 95-85. However, Louisville had previously defeated SMU at home on January 31, 2026, with a score of 88-74.

In terms of injuries, the block did not provide specific details, so the impact of player absences on either side remains unclear. However, both teams were expected to field competitive lineups, as reflected in the betting lines.

The market had Louisville favored by 7.5 points according to DraftKings, with a total set at 164.5. The odds indicated a home money line of -305 for Louisville and +245 for SMU, suggesting that Louisville was the clear favorite going into the matchup.

As for the game's conditions, it was held in a neutral venue at the Spectrum Center, which typically offers a balanced environment for both teams. The atmosphere was charged, with fans from both sides creating an exciting backdrop for the contest.

Throughout the game, viewers were treated to a display of skill and determination, particularly in the second half. Key moments included Jaron Pierre Jr.'s clutch three-pointer that briefly put SMU ahead, followed by a series of lead changes as both teams fought for control. Ryan Conwell emerged as a pivotal player for Louisville, making significant contributions, including a step-back jumper that helped secure the victory.

In summary, the game between the Louisville Cardinals and SMU Mustangs was a thrilling encounter that highlighted the competitiveness of college basketball. Louisville's ability to hold off SMU in the closing moments of the game underscored their resilience and determination as they advanced in the postseason.

Odds

Book	Spread	Total	Moneyline
DraftKings	LOU -7.5	164.5 o -108 / u -112	SMU Mustangs +245 · Louisville Cardinals -305

What these prices pay on $100 · What these numbers mean

Leaders

PointsRyan Conwell16Louisville Cardinals
AssistsIsaac McKneely5Louisville Cardinals
ReboundsIsaac McKneely7Louisville Cardinals
PointsJaron Pierre Jr.17SMU Mustangs
AssistsBoopie Miller4SMU Mustangs
ReboundsJaden Toombs9SMU Mustangs

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