To start, I think ND played about as good a first half as we could. We passed well; we played solid defense; we hit some nice shots. We have talent from point to swing/3.
Second half, we were in the game. This is the #1 team (although I think there are better teams) and we hung in there with them.
Josh Hart went off (37ish?) and was getting auto-whistles on some drives....free throws add up.
ND does not have much height nor much baseline talent. That will be our Achilles heal this season. We need Mooney to develop and contribute in a hurry.
Beach had a horrible shooting game. We were in it to the last five minutes and I expected VJ to hit a big shot, as did the team, because they set plays for him. Didn't happen.
Farrell is vastly improved. He is stupid quick and his shot is above average. I am pleasantly surprised at his speed and court vision.
Again, you could say that Brey didn't call a good game last 5 minutes, but we didn't play the burn. We just didn't hit key shots. Against the top ranked team on the road.
It will be another fun year to watch, as we have 9-10 deep, so we'll compete well in the ACC. we won't beat Duke and NC, but we'll fare ok.
Go Irish.