The 'Len' Zone
Notre Dame Snaps Losing Streak with ACC Win
Notre Dame snaps a five-game losing streak with a 69-64 ACC victory at home over Syracuse.

by Len Clark

Coach Micah Shrewsberry
Notre Dame head coach Micah Shrewsberry breaks down the Fighting Irish's hard-fought 69-64 victory over Syracuse.
Shooting Efficiency: The 3-Point Difference
Field Goal Percentage
Syracuse edged out Notre Dame with 47.1% vs 44.9% overall field goal percentage.
3-Point Shooting
Notre Dame's 36.4% from beyond the arc was the game-changer, with Syracuse going 0-9.
Key Performance Metrics

Free Throws
Both teams struggled at the line, with Notre Dame's volume (27 attempts) proving crucial.

Turnovers
Syracuse capitalized better on turnovers, scoring 19 points off Notre Dame's 15 turnovers.

Rebounds
Notre Dame's slight edge in rebounding led to more second-chance points.
Inside vs Outside: Contrasting Strategies
1
Syracuse Dominance Inside
Syracuse outscored Notre Dame 40-28 in the paint.
2
Notre Dame's Perimeter Play
Notre Dame countered with superior outside shooting and 3-point efficiency.
3
Bench Contribution
Syracuse's bench outscored Notre Dame's 25-15, providing crucial support.
Top Performers: Game-Changing Players
Brayden Shrewsberry (Notre Dame)
25 points, 6-11 3FG, 3-3 FT
Donni Freeman (Syracuse)
20 points, 11 rebounds
J.J. Davis (Syracuse)
20 points, 8-12 FG
Notre Dame's Offensive Focus Areas

1

2

3

1

Improve Inside Scoring
Create more high-percentage shots near the rim.

2

Consistent Free Throw Shooting
Improve on 63% free throw percentage.

3

Limit Scoring Droughts
Find ways to score during critical game stretches.
Notre Dame's Defensive Improvements
Better Paint Defense
Address gaps in interior defense to prevent easy baskets.
Close Out Shooters
Improve perimeter defense to contest 3-point shots effectively.
Reduce Turnovers
Enhance ball security to limit opponent's extra possessions.
Strategic Takeaways for Notre Dame

1

Exploit 3-Point Strength
Design plays to create open looks beyond the arc.

2

Enhance Bench Production
Increase bench scoring to relieve pressure on starters.

3

Balance Inside-Outside Game
Combine perimeter shooting with improved paint presence for a well-rounded offense.