LOUISVILLE, Ky., Jan. 28 (UPI) -- Nate Daniels and Larry O'Bannon had 17 points apiece Wednesday night as No. 4 Louisville used a decisive run late in the first half to down Houston, 64-48.
Kevin Willard served as head coach for the Cardinals in the absence of Rick Pitino, who announced Monday he is taking a leave of absence to treat a medical condition that has been causing him pain for several months.
Pitino reportedly is considering returning on Saturday, when the Cardinals face Marquette.
Louisville (16-1, 6-0 C-USA) won its 16th straight game. The Cardinals used a 23-5 burst in a 12-minute span of the first half to put away the Cougars.
Houston (7-10, 2-4) has dropped three straight overall and lost eight in a row against Louisville.
Andre Owens led the Cougars with 15 points but had eight of Houston's 22 turnovers.
