Get ready for an exciting basketball season as the Notre Dame men's team gears up for their first preseason exhibition game this Friday night!
The Return of Basketball in October!
Notre Dame is set to face off against Butler at Hinkle Fieldhouse, reigniting a historic rivalry. With a record of 72-31 in their favor, the Irish are looking to continue their dominance. However, it's been a while since their last visit to Hinkle, making this game even more intriguing.
A Look at the Bulldogs
Butler, led by Coach Thad Matta, has been busy in the off-season, adding some key transfers to their roster. Players like Michael Ajayi, Yame Butler, and Jalen Jackson bring a new dynamic to the team. And let's not forget their top-25 recruiting class, which will surely add some spark to the court.
The Shrewsberry Connection
Coach Micah Shrewsberry has a special connection with Butler, having served as an assistant coach under Brad Stevens during their championship runs. This adds an extra layer of intrigue to the game, as Shrewsberry returns to face his former team.
Preseason Exhibitions: A Fine-Tuning Act
These preseason games are crucial for the Irish to get into top form before the official season opener on November 3. They provide an opportunity to test strategies and refine skills, ensuring the team is ready for the challenges ahead.
The Core Remains Strong
For Notre Dame, player retention and development are key. The Fighting Irish have managed to keep their highest-scoring percentage in the ACC for the second year running, with an impressive 55.1%. This stability is a testament to Coach Shrewsberry's approach.
Meet the Backcourt Duo
Leading the charge are junior guards Markus Burton and Braeden Shrewsberry, who form one of the best backcourt duos in the ACC. With a combined 35.3 ppg, they are a force to be reckoned with. Burton, in particular, had an outstanding sophomore season, averaging 21.3 ppg, which ranked him third nationally amongst returners. He's a player to watch out for, as he continues to improve and lead his team.
The Addition of Towt: A Rebounding Machine
Carson Towt, the nation's top rebounder from last year, has transferred to Notre Dame. Paired with Markus Burton, one of the top scorers in the country, this duo is a powerhouse. Towt's ability to dominate the boards will be a game-changer for the Irish.
A Highly-Rated Recruiting Class
Coach Shrewsberry has also brought in a talented group of freshmen, forming the highest-rated recruiting class in Notre Dame's modern history. Players like Tommy Ahneman, Ryder Frost, Brady Koehler, and Jalen Haralson bring a mix of skills and potential to the team. This class is set to make an impact and continue the program's tradition of player development.
The Schedule: A Challenging Road Ahead
The Irish have a tough road ahead, with away games against Ohio State, Missouri, Kansas, and TCU. They will also host some exciting matchups, including the ACC/SEC Challenge game against the Missouri Tigers. The schedule is designed to test the team's mettle and prepare them for the rigors of the season.
The Bend: A Jersey with a Story
The Fighting Irish have unveiled a new black and gold jersey, 'The Bend', which pays homage to the city of South Bend. From the script inspired by the Madison Oyster Bar to the font reminiscent of Studebaker cars, this jersey is a tribute to the city's history and culture.
So, basketball fans, mark your calendars for this Friday's game! It's going to be an exciting start to the season, and we can't wait to see how the Irish perform. Who do you think will come out on top? Let's discuss in the comments!
