That's what tournament wins can do for a squad.
With victories over UC Irvine and Northern Iowa, the Cardinals' outlook is much different than it was after losing two of three entering the tournament. Fourth-seeded Louisville (26-8) is preparing for a rematch against Atlantic Coast Conference foe North Carolina State (22-13) on Friday night in Syracuse, New York.
Coach Rick Pitino credits part of his team's rebound to the maturation of the Cardinals' freshmen, including Quentin Snider, who inherited the point guard role following last month's dismissal of senior Chris Jones. Improved defense also has helped Louisville reach a school-record fourth straight Sweet 16 berth.