During a routine block attempt , Ware landed awkwardly and snapped his right shin , drawing gasps of horror as the bone protruded through his skin . 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 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 .