Tip-off: 1 PM ET | TV: The CW | Radio: 960 WSBT-AM
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish (10-12, 4-7 ACC) look to get back on track when they host the Virginia Tech Hokies (10-13, 5-7 ACC) in a critical ACC showdown at Purcell Pavilion. This game marks the continuation of Notre Dame’s "574 Day," an event celebrating the South Bend community, which proved to be a good omen last year in a blowout win over Virginia.
Both teams are navigating up-and-down seasons, each looking to establish consistency heading into the final stretch before the ACC Tournament. With Notre Dame holding a narrow 5-4 home record against Virginia Tech, the Irish aim to take advantage of their home-court edge and even the all-time series at 11-11.
Breaking Down the Matchup
Notre Dame: Finding Stability
Head coach Micah Shrewsberry’s squad has shown flashes of promise but remains in search of a winning formula. The Irish are fresh off a 60-67 road loss to Florida State, their second straight defeat, but they have been solid at home (8-2) this season.
Key Players to Watch:
- Markus Burton (G, So.) – The Irish’s offensive catalyst, averaging 22.0 PPG in ACC play (2nd in the league), and coming off multiple strong performances from beyond the arc.
- Braeden Shrewsberry (G, So.) – The three-point specialist is hitting 40.4% from deep in ACC play, ranking among the best in the conference.
- Tae Davis (F, Jr.) – A consistent scoring option (15.5 PPG), capable of contributing on both ends.
Notre Dame’s efficiency from three (37.8%) and defensive rebounding (3rd in the ACC) will be crucial in limiting Virginia Tech’s second-chance opportunities.
Virginia Tech: Riding Momentum
The Hokies enter this matchup having won two of their last three, including impressive back-to-back road wins over Florida State and Virginia. Mike Young’s squad thrives when their offense flows through Tobi Lawal (F, Jr.), who has been on a tear, averaging 15.2 PPG and 7.4 RPG in ACC play.
Key Players to Watch:
- Tobi Lawal (F, Jr.) – A versatile forward with four double-doubles this season.
- Jaden Schutt (G, r-So.) – The Hokies' top three-point shooter with 50 makes on the season.
- Mylyjael Poteat (C, Gr.) – A physical presence in the paint, fresh off a double-double against SMU.
Virginia Tech’s ability to crash the offensive boards and force turnovers (13.2 forced TOs per game) could spell trouble for an Irish team that has struggled in turnover margin (-0.7).
Keys to the Game
For Notre Dame:
Defensive Efficiency – The Irish allow just 69.9 PPG, slightly better than Tech’s 73.0. Containing Lawal and limiting second-chance opportunities will be pivotal.
Three-Point Shooting – Shrewsberry and Burton will need to stay hot from deep, especially against a Tech defense that allows opponents to shoot 33.6% from beyond the arc.
Turnover Control – Virginia Tech has thrived in close games (4-0 in games decided by 1-3 points). Notre Dame must limit mistakes in crunch time.
For Virginia Tech:
Establish Inside Presence – Lawal and Poteat must control the paint and exploit Notre Dame’s occasional struggles in post defense.
Fast Start – The Hokies have averaged 81.6 PPG in their last five wins over the Irish. Setting the tempo early will be crucial.
Limit Burton’s Impact – If they can force someone else to beat them, the Hokies will increase their chances of leaving South Bend with a win.
Len’s Prediction: Notre Dame 72, Virginia Tech 68
Statistically, these teams are evenly matched, but Notre Dame’s 8-2 home record gives them a slight edge. Markus Burton’s ability to take over in key moments, coupled with the Irish’s perimeter shooting, should be enough to outlast a surging Hokies squad. Expect a tight, hard-fought battle with the Irish pulling away late to even their ACC record at home.
Check out Len Clark's full breakdown of this upcoming game at the Len Zone!