Louisville appeals 'draconian' NCAA penalties in escort case

Louisville says the NCAA ''abused'' its authority when it disciplined the school for a sex scandal that could result in the loss of its 2013 national basketball championship.

The school also says in a 68-page appeal released Friday that the governing body imposed ''draconian'' penalties and ignored the school's self-imposed discipline. Louisville banned itself from the 2016 postseason after its investigation uncovered violations.

This is the latest step in a case that began nearly two years ago. Escort Katina Powell alleged in a book that former Cardinals staffer Andre McGee hired her and other dancers for sex parties with recruits and players from 2010 to 2014.

The NCAA vacated up to 123 victories in which ineligible players received improper benefits. It also suspended Louisville coach Rick Pitino for failing to monitor McGee.