Notre Dame faces SMU Wednesday night at 7 p.m. ET.
LC
by Len Clark
Notre Dame's Key Players
Markus Burton
Burton leads Notre Dame with 21.3 ppg. He is vital to the Irish offense. Can he ignite the team?
Tae Davis
Davis averages 15.7 ppg and 5.5 rpg. He is a key secondary scorer for Notre Dame. Watch his performance.
Braeden Shrewsberry
Shrewsberry averages 13.7 ppg. He is a deep threat. His shooting can change the game.
These players will be key to Notre Dame's success. Their performance is crucial. Can they lead the team to victory?
SMU's Dynamic Trio
Boopie Miller
Miller averages 13.4 ppg and 5.7 apg. His playmaking is essential to SMU.
Chuck Harris
Harris scores 12.5 ppg. He shoots 44.5% from 3PT. His accuracy is a threat.
Matt Cross
Cross averages 11.9 ppg and 8.2 rpg. He dominates the boards for SMU.
SMU's trio poses a significant challenge. Their balanced play is effective. Notre Dame must contain them.
Key Matchup: Burton vs. SMU's Defense
Markus Burton must navigate SMU's perimeter defense. Can he create scoring opportunities?
SMU allows just 32.5% from beyond the arc. They have a solid defense.
X-Factor: Three-Point Defense
1
Notre Dame Struggles
Irish allow 31.8% from deep. This has been a defensive weakness. Can they improve?
2
SMU's Accuracy
Mustangs hit 38.2% from beyond the arc. Their shooting is a major threat.
3
Key Shooters
Harris and Oquendo are SMU's top shooters. Notre Dame must contain them.
SMU's Advantages
1
Depth
SMU has superior depth. Their bench can contribute effectively.
2
Effectiveness
The Mustangs are strong on both ends. Their balanced play is effective.
3
Rebounding
SMU controls the boards. They dominate rebounding battles.
4
Tempo
They dictate the tempo of the game. This disrupts opponents.
These factors give SMU a distinct advantage. Notre Dame must overcome them. Can they rise to the challenge?
Predicted Game Flow
1
1
Competitive Start
Expect a close first half. Both teams will battle intensely.
2
2
SMU Pulls Ahead
The Mustangs may take over later. Their advantages could prevail.
Final Prediction
SMU's depth and effectiveness on both ends of the court provide them with a distinct advantage. Anticipate a competitive first half before SMU pulls ahead in the latter stages.