COL BKB: Louisville 94, Providence 76

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Feb. 18 (UPI) -- Preston Knowles touched off a 22-3 run early in the second half Wednesday that sent No. 7 Louisville coasting past Providence 94-76.

Edgar Sosa led the way with 18 points and five other players scored in double figures for the Cardinals (20-5, 11-2 Big East).

Louisville is tied for second place in the conference race with Marquette and Pittsburgh, a half game behind Connecticut.

It was the Cardinals' second straight win after suffering a one-sided loss to Notre Dame. Louisville has won 12 out of 14.

Terrence Williams added 17 points with eight assists and six rebounds.

Providence held a 46-45 lead at the half, but Knowles ignited the big run with a jumper. Louisville eventually built a 72-56 lead with 8:38 to play.

Providence (16-10, 8-6) was led by 15 points each from Sharaud Curry, Weyinmi Efejuku and Jonathan Kale.