When it comes to conference play, anything goes.  That's what #2 Syracuse and #23 Notre Dame found out as they were both knocked out of the Big East Tournament by their unranked opponents.

Cincinnati 71, #2 Syracuse 68

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Cincinnati had already knocked off one Big East giant in Georgetown, but they weren't finished just yet. They make their way into the Big East final with their 71-68 win over the heavily favored Syracuse Orange on Friday night.  The Bearcats were once again led by Yancy Gates, who had 18 points in the win, and Sean Kilpatrick, who also knocked down 18 points and dished five assists.

Syracuse struggled out of the gate, but came back to make it a game in the second half.  Dion Waiters was a big part of that, he had 28 points for 'Cuse.  He was one of just two members of Syracuse in double figures last night.  Just 9 points for Kris Joseph, who grabbed no rebounds, and Scoop Jardine only netted 6 points.

Louisville 64, #23 Notre Dame 50

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The Irish had trouble with South Florida the night before, and Louisville was riding high on that win over #9 Marquette.  The Cardinals hit hard, and hit fast as they rolled over Notre Dame into the Big East final.  Gorgui Dieng was big in the Louisville win, 16 points and 6 rebounds. Peyton Silva would knock down 13 points, dish out 9 assists and grab 8 boards.

Notre Dame did not look good, shooting just 35%.  As a team they only knocked down 2 of 17 from three point range.  Not a pretty night.  Highest scorer on the team was Eric Atkins, who had 12 points.

Big East Final is on ESPN Saturday night at 9pm.

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