No. 18 Notre Dame is set to face Ole Miss in an exciting matchup during the ACC/SEC Challenge. This game marks a significant moment for the Irish, as they will play at the Sandy and John Black Pavilion for the first time. The contest is scheduled to tip off at 9 p.m. ET, and fans can tune in to ESPN2 to watch Tiffany Greene and Carolyn Peck provide the broadcast.
Game Background and Team Performance
Notre Dame enters this game with a record of 5-1, fresh off a dominant 83-51 victory over Central Michigan on November 24. In that game, Hannah Hidalgo was the standout performer, scoring 25 points. Four other players also made substantial contributions: KK Bransford, Iyana Moore, Cassandre Prosper each scored 12 points, and Gisela Sanchez added 10.
Malaya Cowles led the team in rebounds, securing seven against the Chippewas. Notably, the Irish recorded 22 steals in that game. This achievement marks the first time since the 2012-13 season that Notre Dame has registered two games with over 20 steals.
Notre Dame’s National Rankings
- Notre Dame leads the nation in steals, averaging 18.3 steals per game.
- Hidalgo is a top individual performer, averaging 6.2 steals per game.
- The Irish rank 32nd nationally with a field goal percentage of 47%.
- Prosper and Bransford are the only two players in the ACC shooting over 50%: Prosper at 53.7%, Bransford at 50.8%.
Matchup Insights
Thursday’s game features a clash of two high-scoring teams. Notre Dame averages 82.8 points per game, ranking 24th nationally, while Ole Miss leads slightly with an average of 83.7 points per game, placing 21st nationally. Historically, Notre Dame holds an all-time record of 1-0 against Ole Miss, with their only previous matchup occurring in the Second Round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament, where the Irish triumphed 71-56 in South Bend.
This upcoming challenge presents an opportunity for both teams to showcase their offensive capabilities and defensive skills. The Irish will look to extend their winning streak and build upon their impressive season thus far.
