New York (Sports Network) - The final game of the storied Big East Tournament was one that Louisville refused to lose, even after falling behind by 16 points to Syracuse.
Montrezl Harrell posted 20 points and the fourth-ranked Cardinals dominated the second half to down the No. 19 Orange, 78-61, in the championship game Saturday night.
James Southerland set a Big East tourney record for most 3-pointers made, but when the Syracuse senior forward picked up his fourth personal foul with 15 1/2 minutes left, the game changed quickly.
The Orange were in front 45-29 at the time, but the Cardinals then embarked on an incredible 27-3 surge to take the lead.
Peyton Siva had 11 points and eight assists for Louisville (29-5), which ran its winning streak to 10 games and will likely gain not only a top seed for the NCAA Tournament, but maybe the No. 1 seed overall when the brackets are revealed Sunday evening. Luke Hancock and Russ Smith each had 10 points.
C.J. Fair had 21 points for the Orange (26-9), who will gain an at-large bid.
