On Monday, the University of Notre Dame will host the University of Pittsburgh for an exciting matchup in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). This game marks the 2025-26 season home opener for the 18th-ranked Notre Dame team. With a current record of 9-2 and a strong start of 1-0 in the ACC, Notre Dame is looking to continue its winning streak against Pittsburgh, who holds a record of 7-7 and is 0-1 in conference play. The game is scheduled to be broadcast on the ACC Network at 6 p.m., presented by the Indiana Donor Network.
Recent Performance and Player Highlights
Notre Dame has demonstrated impressive performance this season. Their standout player, Hannah Hidalgo, was recently honored as part of the USBWA National Team of the Week. In a notable game against Bellarmine on December 21, she recorded a historic triple-double featuring 30 points, 13 steals, and 10 assists. This achievement set a record for the program, marking the first 30-point triple-double in its history.
Another key player, Cassandre Prosper, has been consistently scoring, hitting at least 20 points in the last four games. She has also contributed significantly on the boards, achieving two double-doubles with 13 and 14 rebounds in matches against Morehead State and Bellarmine, respectively. Additionally, de Jesus is excelling with the third-best assist-to-turnover ratio in the ACC, averaging 2.6, which ranks 35th nationally.
Defensive Strengths and Team Statistics
Notre Dame leads the nation in several defensive categories, averaging 16.8 steals per game. Four players—Hidalgo, Prosper, de Jesus, and Malaya Cowles—are all averaging at least 2.0 steals per game, outpacing other ACC teams. This defensive prowess, combined with strong offensive numbers, positions the Irish well in the conference.
- Notre Dame averages 85.2 points per game.
- The team holds a field goal percentage of 48.4%.
- The free throw percentage is commendable at 80.2%.
- Notre Dame enjoys a turnover margin of 11.4.
Historically, Notre Dame has dominated the series against Pittsburgh. The Irish have defeated the Panthers in the last eight meetings and hold an all-time record of 37-4 against them. Furthermore, Notre Dame remains unbeaten at home this season, boasting a perfect record of 7-0 and an impressive average of 92.9 points scored per game.
With such a commanding performance, the Irish are well positioned to secure another victory against Pittsburgh in this highly anticipated ACC home opener.
