CHARLOTTE, NC - Chucky Hepburn hit a stunning buzzer-beater, delivering the No. 13 Louisville Cardinals a thrilling 75-73 victory over the Stanford Cardinal on March 13, 2025, during the quarterfinals of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) tournament. This exhilarating match unfolded at the Spectrum Center, where the stakes were high and tension palpable.
The contest showcased dramatic swings, as Stanford leaped to an impressive 52-37 lead early in the second half, showcasing the team’s resilience after their recent loss to Louisville just five days prior. Yet, Louisville, the No. 2 seed, refused to back down, rallying fiercely. Chucky Hepburn, who found his rhythm late, scored 15 of his 20 points during the second half, including the defining shot.
Louisville’s Terrence Edwards Jr. also played a pivotal role, contributing 25 points to anchor the comeback and secure the team’s 10th consecutive win. Edwards’ performance, along with Hepburn's late-game heroics, epitomizes Louisville's surge as they advanced to the ACC tournament semifinals for the first time since joining the conference.
Despite the setback, Stanford demonstrated remarkable grit, having recently defeated rival California with strong contributions from players such as Maxime Raynaud and Oziyah Sellers. Sellers led Stanford's scoring with 22 points, showcasing his sharp shooting—he went 7-of-12 from the field, including 4-of-6 from beyond the arc. Maxime Raynaud, limited by foul trouble, finished with 17 points and five rebounds.
The ebb and flow of the game kept fans on the edge of their seats. Stanford initially built momentum through well-timed shooting and strategic plays. A sequence of baskets propelled them to their largest lead of 15 points with 13:34 left, compelling Louisville to flip the script on their season-ending match-up.
But Louisville’s late-game adjustments proved pivotal. After trailing at halftime for the first time this season against ACC opposition, they quickly regained their footing. A remarkable 10-for-11 shooting stretch allowed the Cardinals to erase Stanford's lead, setting up what would be a thrilling conclusion.
When it mattered, Stanford’s defense forced key turnovers, including one from Chisom Okpara, who capped off his 10 points with clutch plays, tying the game at 73-all with just 32 seconds left to play. Yet, Louisville held firm, managing the clock and keeping the final possession for Hepburn.
With only seconds left, and under immense pressure, Hedepburn seized the moment. He grabbed the ball off the rebound, pivoted, and sank the jumper, sealing the game for Louisville. This win places Louisville squarely among the contenders, signaling their readiness to challenge for the ACC title.
Stanford finished the tournament with optimism, displaying promising skillsets under pressure after their competitive debut season within the ACC. With their overall record now standing at 20-13, they are poised to seek opportunities beyond the NCAA tournament, possibly eyeing the National Invitational Tournament or the newly established College Basketball Crown.
After the game, Kentucky coach Kyle Smith praised his team’s effort, acknowledging their progress and the potential for growth moving forward. Though disappointed, he expressed belief in his team's potential, particularly highlighted by their competitive spirit against established programs.
Looking forward, the Cardinals aim for redemption and improvements as they reflect on this close contest, and excitement brews for the future of Stanford basketball within the ACC.