The third-ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish (10-2, 1-0 ACC) face off against the Virginia Cavaliers (8-5, 0-1 ACC) this Sunday at the Purcell Pavilion. The Irish, fresh off an impressive 118-49 victory over Eastern Michigan, look to extend their dominance at home, where they are unbeaten this season.
Series History and Stakes
Notre Dame holds a commanding 10-3 series lead over Virginia, including a perfect 4-0 record at home. Their last matchup in January 2024 ended in an 86-76 Irish victory in Charlottesville. Head coach Niele Ivey, on the verge of her 100th career win, aims to guide her team to its sixth consecutive ACC home opener victory.
Players to Watch
Notre Dame’s offensive firepower has been led by Hannah Hidalgo, who averages 25.8 points per game, ranking second nationally. Graduate guard Olivia Miles adds depth with her playmaking abilities, averaging 6.7 assists per game, and has notched two triple-doubles this season. Sophomore guard Sonia Citron provides consistency, averaging 16.6 points over her last five games.
Virginia will lean on head coach Amaka Agugua-Hamilton’s defensive schemes to counteract Notre Dame’s offensive efficiency. The Cavaliers, led by Kymora Johnson, aim to rebound from their recent ACC loss and improve on their 0-1 conference start.
Key Statistics
Notre Dame boasts the nation’s best three-point shooting percentage (43.4%) and averages 88.8 points per game, seventh nationally. Their defensive effort has been equally impressive, holding opponents to under 40% shooting in nine games this season. Virginia, meanwhile, averages 73.5 points per game, with a strong rebounding presence led by a team average of 44 boards per contest.
Broadcast Information
Catch all the action on ACC Network with Matt Schumacker and Debbie Antonelli on the call. Sean Stires will provide radio commentary on 96.1 FM WSBT. Live updates are available on Twitter at @ndwbb.
Notre Dame looks to maintain its top-tier form and set the tone for the new year as the Cavaliers aim for an upset.