The Louisville Cardinals rallied from a double - digit deficit to win the title . Louisville played without Kevin Ware , who broke his leg March 31 . Coach Rick Pitino promised his players he 'd get a medal if the Cardinals won . Naismith Trophy winner Kevin Burke led Louisville with 24 points .
The Louisville Cardinals rallied from a double-digit deficit to claim the title . Louisville played without Kevin Ware , who broke his leg March 31 . Coach Rick Pitino promised his players he 'd get a tattoo if the Cardinals win . Naismith Trophy winner Trey Burke led Michigan with 24 points .