In order to stay in the top half of the Big East standings throughout the season, Notre Dame knew it had to defend its home court throughout conference play. Despite hosting the No. 1 ranked Syracuse Orange, the Fighting Irish did just that, delivering a complete performance in their 67-58 upset victory over the previously undefeated Orange.
With a focus on controlling the tempo and playing team basketball on the offensive end, the Fighting Irish were able to limit the number of possessions. Notre Dame shot 50% from the field, hitting 20/40, and out-rebounded Syracuse by 13. Jack Cooley led the way for the Fighting Irish, scoring a team-high 17 points and pulling down 10 rebounds for the double-double. Scott Martin chipped in 13 points in the victory, while Jerian Grant scored 11 points and dished out six assists.
Syracuse used its depth to try and rally, with Dion Waiters and James Southerland both coming off the bench to score in double-figures. Southerland scored a team-high 15 points, while Waiters added 11 on just 4/14 shooting from the field.
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