Cross makes clutch plays, lifts Louisville over NC State

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Matt Cross blocked a 3-pointer and made a 3-pointer in the final minute, Louisville scored the game’s final nine points and the Cardinals defeated NC State 73-68 in the ACC opener for both teams. After Louisville’s Noah Locke hit a 3-pointer that tied the game at 68 with 1:33 to go, Cross blocked a 3-pointer attempt by Jericole Hellems then buried the go-ahead 3-pointer from the left corner with 28 seconds to go. Cam Hayes missed a 3-pointer for the Wolfpack with 12 seconds left and Jarrod West capped the scoring, making two free throws with 7 seconds remaining.