Saturday the Cards put East Tennessee State away with a lethargic effort. Louisville won despite shooting just 36.4 percent, including just 6-for-30 from beyond the arc. Trailing 10-7 early, Louisville went on an 18-0 run to take a 25-10 lead.

East Tennessee State never really threatened again, but wouldn’t go away. The Cardinals won their home opener, the final one at Freedom Hall, the Cards’ home court since 1956. Louisville, which was the last ranked team to start the season, began a stretch of three home games in as many days, as part of the Hall of Fame Showcase.

Game Two of the Showcase was today against defending MEAC Champion Morgan State.

Again, while the Cardinals were never really threatened, they couldn’t put the challenger away until the final horn sounded. Louisville never trailed after the first four minutes and even led by 15 at the half, 50-35. However, the Cardinals allowed Morgan State to cut it to five on several occasions late. The Cards took full advantage from the free throw line though, shooting 33-of-41 (81%) from the charity stripe.

Samardo Samuels had 23 points and 12 rebounds. Preston Knowles contributed 13 points, five rebounds and five assists. Lil’ Eddie was the only other Cardinal in double digits with 12 points. Jared Swopshire had nine points and nine boards as 12 of the 13 players who saw the court scored. Stephan Van Treese is the only Cardinal who didn’t get a bucket, missing his only shot in the two minutes of action he saw.

Miller will be along later with a more in depth look at the Cardinals efforts. Louisville will take on Appalachian State tomorrow night in their third game in as many days.