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Chat Transcript: Talk Notre Dame basketball with Tom Noie

3:17 pm, January 25, 2012

Tom Noie answered readers' Notre Dame basketball questions in a live chat. Read the transcript.

 Live Chat: Talk Notre Dame basketball with Tom Noie(01/25/2012) 
11:59
sbtnoie: 
Yes.....it really did happen. It was not a dream, though for a good chunk of Saturday night at Purcell Pavilion, it sure seemed like one.

The same Notre Dame team that staggered through many a long night in November and December finally delivered an evening and and effort to remember Saturday against previously unbeaten and top-ranked Syracuse.

The Irish jumped to a fast start. They hit shots. They controlled tempo. They had answers for every time the Orange looked like they would wake up and roar back.

A week of skepticism ended just after 8 Saturday night with fans storming the Purcell Pavilion floor and another No. 1 team losing in South Bend.

Like the win in Louisville, Saturday's game showed just how good this Notre Dame team can be when it makes shots, when it refuses to play fast, when it shares the ball. The trick now becomes can the Irish do it again tonight in the Prudential Center against Seton Hall.

We can discuss tonight's game and the week that was last week on today's Notre Dame hoops chat. Be sure to include your name and hometown with your question or comment.

Off we go.........
Wednesday January 25, 2012 11:59 sbtnoie
12:04
[Comment From Brian (Chicago)Brian (Chicago): ] 
Tom, Loved your articles from Saturday morning to today's from all the coverage of the Cuse game and aftermath. Won't forgot that game for a while. Finally the crowd seemed much better, but that is expected for Cuse of course. Let's see if it lasts. Hope you didn't get trampled! Who will have to step up the most to contain Theodore and Pope tonight? What do you want from Portillos?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:04 Brian (Chicago)
12:09
sbtnoie: 
Brian:

Thanks for the kind words regarding the SBT coverage from Saturday - certainly a night to remember. And since our seats are safely tucked into the corner of third row of media seating (all by design), we were safe and sound out of harm's way.

Jordan Theodore and Herb Pope are going to be tough matchups for Notre Dame tonight. Both are making serious pushes for first-team all-league honors. Pope is one of only two players in the Big East averaging a double-double for points and rebounds. He's a bear around the basket. That will have to be a team effort - Jack Cooley, Scott Martin, maybe Mike Broghammer will get chances to guard him.

Maybe this is a night Joey Brooks plays a few more minutes to slow Theodore. He's a tough cover and was really bad last time out against Villanova - 2-for-16 from the floor.

No matter what the Irish do with Pope and Theodore, they cannot....cannot....cannot let the Pirates get confident from 3 in their own building. Notre Dame was really bad guarding the 3 last time out on the road against Rutgers. Can't let that happen again.

As for Portillo's - the usual. Big beef and a Chicago dog. And hurry up. I'm hungry.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:09 sbtnoie
12:14
[Comment From Brooks Fan-ChicagoBrooks Fan-Chicago: ] 
Tom , thanks to you and the SBT for the great Syracuse coverage. And all year for that matter. Pure gold. But I wonder about your prior answer, as I think one area ND has improved this year is perimeter defense. Has this been a point of renewed emphasis in practice? (And yes, I recall that they don;t let you guys into practice).
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:14 Brooks Fan-Chicago
12:18
sbtnoie: 
Brooks Fan:

Again, thanks for the kudos regarding our coverage. This Irish team may not be as good as last year's outfit, but you can never say the season's not interesting.

As for perimeter defense, not really more of an emphasis in practice, but just having a different type of athlete on the squad helps. Look at the guards this year as opposed to previous seasons.

Eric Atkins, Jerian Grant, Alex Dragicevich and Pat Connaughton. All of them have long arms and are really athletic. They can close out on and bother shooters better than some of the shorter guys of previous teams - Tory Jackson, Kyle McAlarney, Chris Quinn.

I mentioned using Joey Brooks more because of his physical skills and defensive ability. Jerian Grant spent so much time chasing Jeremy Lamb a couple games ago that he had nothing left on offense. Notre Dame is going to have to score tonight as well - Grant can do that if Brooks can concentrate on limiting Theodore.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:18 sbtnoie
12:18
[Comment From PetePete: ] 
Why hasn't Demetrius Jackson committed to the Irish yet? It seems like he's practically on the team already!
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:18 Pete
12:21
sbtnoie: 
Pete:

Great question, and one that has no answer. It has to drive the Notre Dame coaches nuts - the kid's been in the locker room after the wins over Pittsburgh and Syracuse. He's been to practice. He mentions on Twitter before Christmas that he was close to committing..........and then nothing.

There was talk around South Bend earlier in January that Jackson would choose Michigan State.....but if that's the case, he certainly wouldn't be in the Notre Dame locker room Saturday.

So what gives? Who knows? Again, you're dealing with a teenager who's faced with a massive decision. Not an easy situation. Notre Dame has done everything right in this situation. It's now up to Jackson to make a choice.

When that might happen, I don't think anyone knows. Including Jackson.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:21 sbtnoie
12:21
[Comment From Brad in South BendBrad in South Bend: ] 
As Brian mentioned, the coverage surrounding the 'Cuse game was awesome. What a great win and it was an amazing atmosphere. Have you heard anything since the game regarding Demetrius Jackson? I know he was in the locker room after the game Saturday but he was also in the locker room after the Pitt win and still hasn't committed. What is his status and how close are we to signing him? Thanks Tom, and let's get a win tonight!
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:21 Brad in South Bend
12:22
sbtnoie: 
Brad:

Great to hear from you. Pete beat you to the punch with the Demetrius Jackson question - see above for the answer. Take care.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:22 sbtnoie
12:22
[Comment From Tim, NYCTim, NYC: ] 
How do you explain the discrepancy between Jack Cooley's appearance (clumsy) and his effectiveness (very high)? He doesn't look very pretty but sure seems to get the job done. Does he remind you of Bill Lambeer?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:22 Tim, NYC
12:26
sbtnoie: 
Tim:

Good to hear from someone in NYC - currently working from my hotel in midtown before catching the train out to Newark tonight. Thanks for the weather. Quality.

Regardless of how Jack Cooley looks when he plays, Mike Brey likely will tell him, just keep doing it. I know he was the same way when Brey and former Irish assistant coach Gene Cross recruited him out of suburban Chicago. He didn't always look smooth, but you can't argue with the results.

Cooley keeps this up, he's going to make a run at most improved player, and maybe an all-league team, in the Big East. He's moved to the top of the list for team most valuable player honors to date.

The burn offense really suits his style - if the Irish were running and gunning, he'd probably labor to play 25 minutes. But he goes for 30-plus against the 'Cuse.

As for Bill Laimbeer, don't know about that comparison. A little before my time.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:26 sbtnoie
12:26
[Comment From Brian (Chicago)Brian (Chicago): ] 
Was just gonna ask about Brooks. Just seems he isn't in sync with the offense which sucks cause he is able to guard the opposing team's best perimeter player. Just the opposite with Drago, but he was awesome Saturday. Good to see Tom KnightKnighgggplaying well too.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:26 Brian (Chicago)
12:28
sbtnoie: 
Brian:

Don't lose the faith with Joey Brooks just yet. If this season has proved anything, every guy on the roster is going to get his turn. Even when they're struggling (like Dragicevich since the Pittsburgh game) it comes back around and guys are able to respond.

Even Knight, who logged a DNP-CD in the Louisville game stayed with it and was huge against Syracuse.

It's tough with Brooks because he is so offensively-challenged. What does he do well? it would help if he was a knock-down foul shooter - then he could get to the basket and get fouled. But he hits only 62.8 percent from the line. Gotta be better.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:28 sbtnoie
12:29
[Comment From Sam, BostonSam, Boston: ] 
A two part question: Why does Notre Dame seem to be affected by inconsistency? If you were forming a team for this year, would you select Jack Cooley or Herb Pope for your center?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:29 Sam, Boston
12:33
sbtnoie: 
Sam:

Inconsistency in terms of what? Play? Production?

A major part of it is having such a young team, and having guys in such new roles trying to figure it all out. It's one thing to be good against Pittsburgh in that win, but as good as the Irish were that night, they had to be even better the next time out against Cincinnati.

It's one thing to win at Louisville and then at home against South Florida, but this team is still learning you have to be really, really, really good the next time out against Connecticut.

As for taking Herb Pope or Jack Cooley? Man, tough call. If it was for only one year, I'd take Pope who seems to be in the same mode Ben Hansbrough was in last year as far as chasing greatness and getting his team to the NCAA tournament. He's played every single game like no one can deny him.

But Cooley has another year after this one - he could be really good next year, too. Start with Pope, but follow with Cooley as your sixth man.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:33 sbtnoie
12:33
[Comment From Brian (Chicago)Brian (Chicago): ] 
Whoops got screwed up there....Don't let Chris Christie steal the Portillos, interesting the connection he has with Brey. Pretty cool. How confident are you that ND can have the same intensity against the lower trier teams to close the season? lower
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:33 Brian (Chicago)
12:35
sbtnoie: 
Brian:

Really confident. Look, if Notre Dame can win at Louisville and win at home over undefeated Syracuse, the Irish could beat any team remaining on their schedule. They just have to understand to bring the same type of mindset into the game against DePaul or Rutgers or Villanova or St. John's or Providence as they did in the big wins.

Their margin for error is too slim for anything less. If they can do that, then Notre Dame is in the 10-league win range, and you know what that means.......
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:35 sbtnoie
12:36
[Comment From Sam, BostonSam, Boston: ] 
Does Notre Dame's upcoming Big East schedule seem to be highly favorable? In my opinion, games at UCONN and West Virginia seem to be the only 2 games that might not be highly competitive. Tom, please comment.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:36 Sam, Boston
12:38
sbtnoie: 
Sam:

Absolutely. Look at what happens when February arrives. Five of Notre Dame's final nine league games are away from home. Of the four road games, two are against teams - Villanova and St. John's - that are near the bottom of the league standings.

Marquette is going to be a tough one to get at home, but it is at home. If Notre Dame can beat Syracuse at Purcell Pavilion, it can beat Marquette.

Take care of business at home, steal one or two on the road and suddenly you're in the discussion come Selection Sunday (not saying they're going to the NCAA tournament) because you're flirting with a finish in the top half of the Big East.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:38 sbtnoie
12:38
[Comment From Bob, Roch NYBob, Roch NY: ] 
Beating a very athletic Syracuse team, albeit undermanned without Fab Melo, must be encouraging given the issue ND has historically had with such teams, how good do you think this Irish team will be by this time next year?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:38 Bob, Roch NY
12:40
sbtnoie: 
Bob:

They're going to be really, really good even before a decision is reached on Tim Abromaitis and/or Scott Martin returning for a fifth year.

Everyone else is coming back (as we know now). There's a talented recruiting class on the way. Garrick Sherman becomes eligible. As thin as the rotation has been this season - and it's been scary bare at times - that's not going to be the case next season.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:40 sbtnoie
12:40
[Comment From Bill, New YorkBill, New York: ] 
Since each 6th year petition to the NCAA is examined independently, is there any remote chance that both Scott Martin and Tim Abromaitis could each be granted a 6th year of eligibility? Also, if all 13 players on next year's roster return to compete, could both Scott Martin and Tim Abromaitis join the team as walk ons?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:40 Bill, New York
12:42
sbtnoie: 
Bill:

There's always a chance one or both or neither could be back next year. It's going to be a stretch for the NCAA to green-light two sixth years off one team.

If one or both return, there would have to be some creative roster management to bring them back as scholarship players. Notre Dame will have the full allotment of 13 on scholarship without either.

Might be a headache, or a nice problem to have for Brey. We'll see.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:42 sbtnoie
12:42
[Comment From Bill, New YorkBill, New York: ] 
If Demetrius Jackson takes his talents elsewhere, would you still believe that Notre Dame's point guard position would still be in excellent shape with both Eric Atkins and Jerian Grant?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:42 Bill, New York
12:45
sbtnoie: 
Bill:

Before this season, I would say no. Now I feel differently in watching Grant work for long stretches this season as the primary handler.

I remember fans were really concerned in preseason about what would happen if Atkins fell into foul trouble. Look what happened against Syracuse. Atkins goes to the bench, Grant takes over. Dragicevich helps handle. Connaughton does some stuff. The Irish weathered that problem nicely.

Jackson would be a great get, but it wouldn't set the program back if it didn't work out.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:45 sbtnoie
12:45
[Comment From Brian (Chicago)Brian (Chicago): ] 
Thanks for answering all my questions!!! I swear its the computer screwing up my writing, not me! Last one: will the NCAA tourny committee really hurt ND with their non-conference losses to Maryland and Georgiaa? or will hte end of the BE regular season and tournament play cont for more?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:45 Brian (Chicago)
12:48
sbtnoie: 
Brian:

That's a question that remains to be answered by how the rest of the Big East shakes out.

Say Notre Dame finishes ninth or 10th in the league and is right there on the cusp of earning an NCAA tournament bid. The selection committee is going to want to see what the Irish did in non-league play. There's really nothing there. Yes, they played a tough schedule, but they really needed to get one of those wins (Georgia, Indiana, Maryland) to sway any late decision in their favor.

In that case, it would hurt.

Then again, if the Irish can find some way to finish seventh, maybe even eighth, there might not be a debate. Either way, it might be a really close call as in one of the first four out or one of the first four in.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:48 sbtnoie
12:48
[Comment From Bob, New JerseyBob, New Jersey: ] 
West Virginia seems to be the surprise team in the Big East so far this year. Do you ever recall Notre Dame winning a game in Morgantown? I seem to recall David Graves being called for a touch foul with 1 second left about 10 years ago, and the Irish lost at the buzzer due to those free throws.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:48 Bob, New Jersey
12:51
sbtnoie: 
Bob:

West Virginia doesn't have to be the surprise team in the league for Morgantown to be a tough place to play of late.

Notre Dame has lost in its last three trips to WVU Coliseum after having won four in a row. The teams David Graves was on won twice his final two years there.

The game you're thinking of might be the Chris Quinn team when it lost 71-70 in the closing seconds of that 2005-06 season where the Irish seemingly lost every game by one or two points late in regulation or overtime.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:51 sbtnoie
12:51
[Comment From Brooks Fan-ChicagoBrooks Fan-Chicago: ] 
Tom, a source of concern for me coming down the stretch in the Syracuse game was their press on our inbounds and double (and sometimes triple) teams trapping the ball. I worry about our handling that kind of pressure, and hope the team has been spending some time on that.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:51 Brooks Fan-Chicago
12:53
sbtnoie: 
BFC:

Exactly, which is why I wondered if the Orange were going to make a serious push to get back in the game. The Irish have shown they can handle the press - and long as they stay strong in their habits and not get flustered.

Every team is going to want to speed up the game against Notre Dame. But the Irish have smart guys who have to understand that, and know that if they don't panic, all can be OK.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:53 sbtnoie
12:53
[Comment From GuestGuest: ] 
Pete Coto De Caza, CA Ok Ok Fritz Hoefer Bookstore Basketball founder sent me to my room for saying Syracuse would kill us by 30. I'm sorry - can I come out now. I now believe.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:53 Guest
12:55
sbtnoie: 
Pete:

Yes, you can come out now.

I didn't think Syracuse would win by 30, but based on what I saw from Notre Dame against Connecticut and against Rutgers, I figured Syracuse would beat the Irish. They looked sooooooo overmatched against the Huskies, and the Orange are deeper and more talented.

Like Mike Brey said in Tuesday's SBT - it was sort of the perfect storm of everything coming together in Notre Dame's favor. When the Irish hit shots early, it got everyone to believe. And then they delivered.

Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:55 sbtnoie
12:55
[Comment From Tim, AlbanyTim, Albany: ] 
Troy Murphy led the Big East in rebounding during 2 seasons. Do you think that Jack Cooley is as tenacious a rebounder as Troy Murphy was?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:55 Tim, Albany
12:57
sbtnoie: 
Tim:

Not yet. Troy was really, really, really good right away as a freshman. You could tell early one that he was better than everyone else. He played like a pro.

Jack Cooley doesn't have the natural talent as Murphy, but man, does he squeeze everything out of what he does have.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:57 sbtnoie
12:57
[Comment From Tim, AlbanyTim, Albany: ] 
Would you say that Notre Dame has a deeper bench than Seton Hall? Does Herb Pope have an adequate back up if the Irish can get him into foul trouble?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:57 Tim, Albany
1:00
sbtnoie: 
Tim:

Just based on minutes, Notre Dame's bench is deeper - the Irish have eight guys who log double-figures for minutes; the Pirates have seven. Pope is one of four Hall starters playing at least 30 minutes a game.

As much as we've talked about Pope and Theodore, keep an eye on one Fuqan Edwin. He leads the league in steals (58), is second on the squad in scoring (14.3 ppg.) and can be a matchup nightmare.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:00 sbtnoie
1:00
[Comment From Bob, Roch NYBob, Roch NY: ] 
What are the early views on Kaetena in practices so far?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:00 Bob, Roch NY
1:02
sbtnoie: 
Bob:

Still too early, but he looks the part of a skilled big man. I haven't seen him practice, but I did watch him go through pre-practice shooting drills last week. He has a soft touch around the basket and can step out and hit a shot.

The Irish coaches are taking their time with him - he didn't go in any five-on-five situations last week because he was still learning the system. Notre Dame would like to take it slowly with him through the summer.

The Irish are going on a foreign tour to Canada in August. That might be the time to figure out if Katenda can play at this level.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:02 sbtnoie
1:08
sbtnoie: 
Quick story - last time Notre Dame played in the Prudential Center (where game is tonight), I left the building wondering if the college career of three-time All-American Luke Harangody was over.

Harangody was hurt late in the second half of a 90-87 loss to Seton Hall on Feb. 11, 2010. He suffered a bone bruise to his right knee and missed five games. Harangody returned and had one really big game - in the Big East Championship but never really was the same.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:08 sbtnoie
1:16
[Comment From Sam, BostonSam, Boston: ] 
With the talent level of the basketball team elevated for next year and beyond, can't all Notre Dame fans finally realistically expect deep runs into the Big East or the NCAA tournament if Lady Luck with herselection bracket is on their side? Also, I still believe that we have a difference of opinion about the basketball playing talents of Arik Armstead. Even though he probably will go somewhere else, his great basketball game combined with all the other returning Irish players still helps me see the Irish cutting down the nets if he decides to come to South Bend.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:16 Sam, Boston
1:21
sbtnoie: 
Sam:

We're still beating that Arik Armstead drum? How in the world can anyone - you me, a recruiting analyst - project how good Armstead could be after he's played only one year of high school hoops. And he was average at best - 12 points, nine rebounds. That certainly doesn't scream Big East player of the year.

Here's the thing with him - the kid is by all accounts the No. 1 college football prospect still uncommitted. That means he's supposed to be really, really, really good. Like play as a freshman good. Like go to the NFL one day good.

Say Armstead did choose Notre Dame. If he's as good as his press clippings, he would live, breathe, sleep in the Gug from July through January. When would he have time to concentrate on hoops. If there was a chance he could play both, Brian Kelly would DEMAND that Armstead not pick up a basketball until January at the earliest.

Arik Armstead will be really good at one.....sport....only. It will be the sport he chooses to concentrate on.

As for the first part of your question, we should EXPECT deep runs into the Big East Championship and NCAA tournament every year. Whether that happens is an entirely different matter. A whole lot of luck is part of the equation, and the Irish have fallen far short in that department.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:21 sbtnoie
1:22
[Comment From Tim, NYCTim, NYC: ] 
During these busy bb times, I wonder how and when the players find time to be students. When on the road, for example, do they have planned study time without attending class, and when the game ends tonight, do they linger on the coast before the Conn game or come home?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:22 Tim, NYC
1:27
sbtnoie: 
Tim:

Now that the spring semester has started, Notre Dame's travel is a bit tricky. Take this week.

For tonight's game at Seton Hall, the Irish went to a full day of class on Tuesday, practiced, had dinner then hopped their charter into Newark Liberty International Airport last night.

Notre Dame will play tonight's game, then head straight for the airport and its charter flight back to South Bend - regardless of what time the Irish finally get back to campus, they'll be in all their classes on Thursday and class again on Friday before leaving sometime Saturday for Hartford and Sunday's game against Connecticut.

Again, the Irish will charter home immediately after Sunday's game to be in class on Monday. Some schools might stay out - South Florida, for example, was on the road for something like six straight days between games - and that was when classes were IN session.

Pat Holmes, the basketball program's academic adviser, usually travels with the team during the week to help coordinate classwork.

Notre Dame historically has been in New York for the Big East Championship during midterm exams, and Holmes has given tests or had papers be written in a hotel conference room before games.

It's these little things that fans don't see - or take for granted - that underscore how tough it is to compete in this league - or any league - in this day and age of late starts/travel. It can be a grind.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:27 sbtnoie
1:27
[Comment From Sam, BostonSam, Boston: ] 
Now that Tom Knight seems ready for prime time, why doesn't Mike Brey play the combo of Jack Cooley and Tom Knight to elevate their strengths together in the low post?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:27 Sam, Boston
1:29
sbtnoie: 
Sam:

That would work well, say, Sunday against Connecticut against fellow bigs Andre Drummond and Alex Oriakhi. Not so much against teams that like to go with smaller, quicker lineups. It's hard enough for Jack Cooley to chase a smaller guy, but Cooley and Knight? Yikes. Defensive mismatches all around.

Let's see Knight build off what he did Saturday. He was good. Now he has to be better, then maybe he's ready for more.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:29 sbtnoie
1:30
[Comment From Bob, New JerseyBob, New Jersey: ] 
During recent games how does Notre Dame's free throw accuracy percentages compare with earlier in the year?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:30 Bob, New Jersey
1:34
sbtnoie: 
Bob:

It was a little better earlier in the year when Notre Dame had a decided height and talent advantage against a good chunk of the teams it played. The Irish were 24-of-29 (82.8 percent) against Mississippi Valley State, 22-of-28 (78.6) against Delaware State and 21-of-28 (75 percent) against Bryant.

The Irish have connected on at least 70 percent of their foul shots in three of their first seven league games - Cincinnati (72.7), Louisville (75.9) and Syracuse (70.4). Notre Dame was really bad against Rutgers (5-of-13, 38.5 percent), but that stat is a little misleading.

Over the final 10 minutes of the game, the Irish missed only two free throws, but also missed eight layups. That would have really made a difference.

When Notre Dame can control the tempo and play at its pace, it usually has the legs to hit free throws. When other teams speed up the Irish, and they spend a good majority of time chasing and trying to guard quicker guys (Connecticut, Rutgers), they struggle shooting free throws.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:34 sbtnoie
1:34
[Comment From Dan - ChicagoDan - Chicago: ] 
Assuming, Abro and Martin don't come back next year, do you see a starting front line of Cooley, Connaughton, & Biedschield?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:34 Dan - Chicago
1:36
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Too early to tell. Do you start a freshman in Cameron Biedscheid instead of Garrick Sherman who already has two years of college under his belt? Do you want to play big or play fast.

There will be plenty of time to figure out how all the pieces fit. Cameron Biedscheid, by all indications, is really good. I'd like to see him play pickup in the summer to see how his game fits before ticketing him as a sure-fire starter.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:36 sbtnoie
1:36
[Comment From Bob, New JerseyBob, New Jersey: ] 
Based on what you're hearing as well as your previous answer to a question above, would you say that the chances of Eric Katenda playing on next year's team are looking somewhat better?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:36 Bob, New Jersey
1:37
sbtnoie: 
Bob:

Too early to tell. If anything, it might make Mike Brey's decision tougher. In the days after Katenda suffered the injury that cost him visit in his left eye, Brey was pretty adamant - the kid's career was over. No chance at ever playing.

He's since hedged away from that. I don't know if Brey will know in the next three or four months just what, if anything, Katenda can offer.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:37 sbtnoie
1:38
[Comment From AnitaAnita: ] 
A couple of weeks ago, Angelo DiCarlo from that "other" South Bend TV station's sports department, Tweeted that Notre Dame had 'no shot" against Syracuse. Please feel free to razz him on behalf of the fans in chat the next time you see him.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:38 Anita
1:41
sbtnoie: 
Anita:

Truth be told, Angelo is a graduate of Syracuse and probably just feeling a little pride about the alma mater when the Orange were ranked No. 1 and flying through the first 20 games of the season without a loss.

Honestly, there probably were a lot of people around town believing Notre Dame had no shot Saturday. based on the previous two games (Connecticut, Rutgers), I was one of them.

I was on record saying that if Notre Dame beat Connecticut, it would beat Syracuse. But the way the Irish played against the Huskies, who just were a whole lot better that day, I wondered how Notre Dame would fare against a better Orange team.

I didn't know the shots would fall. I didn't know Purcell Pavilion could actually hold that much juice for 40 minutes. I didn't know Syracuse could be as disinterested as it seemed.

Glad I was wrong.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:41 sbtnoie
1:41
[Comment From Dan, Fremont, INDan, Fremont, IN: ] 
Hey Tom how about that crowd Saturday? On their feet 2:30 into the game. One local reporter used the word frenzied.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:41 Dan, Fremont, IN
1:43
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Crowd finally elevated their game - but come one, nationally televised game against the nation's top-ranked team in a place that has such history.

Make sure you get back to me about how well the crowds were for DePaul and Rutgers and West Virginia and Providence.

If you're going to bring it against the 'Cuse, no excuse not to bring it every other night as well.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:43 sbtnoie
1:43
[Comment From Bill, New yorkBill, New york: ] 
Do you think that Eric Atkins and Jerian Grant are driving to the hoop as much as they could? With their great free throw shooting accuracy, it seems that they should try to exploit their driving ability more.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:43 Bill, New york
1:44
sbtnoie: 
Bill:

Good point. I would love to see both get to the basket more, but part of that may be by design. With Cooley and Martin operating close to the basket, and Connaughton usually on the wing, sending Grant or Atkins to the basket leaves Notre Dame open for some run-outs in case of a miss/block/turnover.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:44 sbtnoie
1:44
[Comment From Dan - ChicagoDan - Chicago: ] 
What are the chances of Auguste and/or Burgett getting redshirted next year?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:44 Dan - Chicago
1:45
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Probably pretty good given the history of Mike Brey holding guys back to get them older and stronger. Especially if Abromaitis or Martin come back. One of those guys returns, there will be minimal minutes to go around.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:45 sbtnoie
1:45
[Comment From trec, chicagotrec, chicago: ] 
Will it be the burn tonight?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:45 trec, chicago
1:47
sbtnoie: 
trec:

Burn it will be. Mike Brey was very clear in today's SBT story - the tempo has to be to Notre Dame's liking. If it's an open-floor game of getting up and and down, he believes the Irish have "no shot."

Control the tempo, slow down Seton Hall and frustrated the Pirates into guarding. Do that, and get a lead, and suddenly a seven-point cushion becomes like a 12-point lead because of minimal possessions.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:47 sbtnoie
1:47
[Comment From Bill, New YorkBill, New York: ] 
Until Eric Katenda took sick during his junior year of high school, wasn't he a consensus top 50 recruit?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:47 Bill, New York
1:48
sbtnoie: 
BIll:

Indeed he was. He was top 100 early in his senior season before dropping. I haven't seen much of him, but the bits and pieces I saw before practice last week underscore that the kid's a talent. We'll see what happens.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:48 sbtnoie
1:49
[Comment From Todd, chicagoTodd, chicago: ] 
Will it be the burn tonight?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:49 Todd, chicago
1:49
sbtnoie: 
Todd:

You and trec brothers? Just kidding. Yep. First one to 60 wins tonight at The Rock.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:49 sbtnoie
1:52
[Comment From Bill, New YorkBill, New York: ] 
It seems that the matchup against UCONN is the worst for Notre Dame in the entire Big East since UCONN has many long athletic and super quick players. If the Irish successfully control tempo by holding the ball til under the 10 second mark, do you think that the game next Sunday can at least be competitive?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:52 Bill, New York
1:54
sbtnoie: 
Bill:

Yes, especially since UConn has some issues since the teams last met. That can work in Notre Dame's favor to where the Huskies might think, hey, we've got problems, but we beat these guys earlier this month, so this is going to be easy.

Connecticut will have not played in the previous eight days. Notre Dame could steal it, just as it did last year at Gampel on Senior Day.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:54 sbtnoie
1:55
[Comment From Bill, New YorkBill, New York: ] 
A follow up question: Could you compare the atmosphere for the Irish playing at the large venue in Hartford to that of playing at the Gampel Pavilion at the Storrs campus?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:55 Bill, New York
1:57
sbtnoie: 
Bill:

When it's packed, the XL Center is a tougher place to play. That arena was built for hockey (Hartford Whalers back in the day) and the seats are almost right on top of you. Gampel can get loud, but it reminds me a lot of Purcell Pavilion where the noise kind of fades away.

Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:57 sbtnoie
1:57
[Comment From The Dude, Columbus, OHThe Dude, Columbus, OH: ] 
Tom - where do we end the season record, NCAA, NIT or out of all tourney's?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:57 The Dude, Columbus, OH
1:59
sbtnoie: 
Dude:

Nice handle. If I had to say today I'd say the NIT - the non-league resume may see this team come up short. But again, the Irish can find a way to finish 9-9 and that gets them to eighth place in the league, then there's a chance.

Just take care of business at home, steal a few (a big one or two) on the road and head for the Big East Championship knowing that a win or two would help is all you can ask at this point.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:59 sbtnoie
1:59
[Comment From Mike, MilwaukeeMike, Milwaukee: ] 
From the geography of their high schools, which are only a mile apart, Dragicevich and Cooley have suburban roots north of Chicago which isn't a likely breeding ground for the toughness that they show on the court. Instead of recruiting from city blacktops, for which Al McGuire was famous at Marquette, maybe ND should be trolling the north shore library system for talent.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:59 Mike, Milwaukee
2:00
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Good one. And watch out, this here SBT writer has deep, deep, deep roots in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. And the streets are meaner than you might think!
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:00 sbtnoie
2:00
[Comment From John, ChampaignJohn, Champaign: ] 
I have a simple suggestion. Whenever anyone questions the competency of Coach Brey please write "Syracuse". A simply masterful job. I hope Coach K does not retire anytime soon as we may lose him to Duke.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:00 John, Champaign
2:03
sbtnoie: 
John:

Great point. Unfortunately. if the Irish struggle tonight, too many people will say it's because of Mike Brey. Guy's a bum. Get rid of him. Start over.

So wrong. The guy can coach. Yes, he's fallen short in the NCAA tournament on more than one occasion, but you can't overlook the entire body of work. Can't.

Look at what Notre Dame accomplished in the last year - Jan 24, 2011 to Jan. 24, 2012. The Irish have beaten Pittsburgh twice, once at Petersen Events Center. They've beaten Connecticut twice. They won at Louisville. They beat previously undefeated and No. 1 Syracuse. They beat Wisconsin and Gonzaga. They almost won a regular-season league championship and were some nine minutes away from playing for the Big East Championship.

Brey has his faults, but the guy can coach.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:03 sbtnoie
2:06
[Comment From Tim, AlbanyTim, Albany: ] 
With Navy now in line to join the Big East for football, does it make it more likely that Notre Dame will continue to play in a strong Big East basketball conference with its long standing members as well as teams from Houston, Central Florida and the like?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:06 Tim, Albany
2:08
sbtnoie: 
Tim:

No, especially with news that the Big 12 plans to talk about expansion. If the Big 12 wants to be the Bigger 12, Louisville and Cincinnati make the most sense, which further cripples the Big East.

Unless the Big East adds Pittsburgh, Syracuse and West Virginia, the most logical spot for Notre Dame remains the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Will that ever happen?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:08 sbtnoie
2:12
[Comment From Dan, Fremont, INDan, Fremont, IN: ] 
I watched countless BE games and I'd submit that our crowd (the locals) isn't all that dissimilar from most BE venues. Case in point is saturday's @Marquette vs. Pitt. In a close game the locals sat on their hands until the very end.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:12 Dan, Fremont, IN
2:14
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

For a program that has had home win streaks of 45 and 29 and had been undefeated at home three of the previous five years, it makes you wonder how they did it.

Purcell Pavilion may rank eighth - on a good day - in terms of toughest home court atmospheres in the league. And not a lot of people inside the hoops program would disagree.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:14 sbtnoie
2:14
[Comment From Tim, AlbanyTim, Albany: ] 
A follow up question: Do you believe that even with Pittsburgh and Syracuse jumping ship, the Big East basketball conference with the UCONNS, Georgetowns, Marquettes etc, easily trumps the ACC for basketball which seems to have to rely on its storied past?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:14 Tim, Albany
2:16
sbtnoie: 
Tim:

To a point, but it becomes so watered down and un-Big East like. Now instead of getting a Syracuse-Pittsburgh matchup on a Friday night in the Garden, you're getting early-round matchups of Houston against USF or SMU against St. John's.

Part of the allure of the Big East Championship was that so many teams had such a strong presence in New York - Syracuse, Pittsburgh, heck even West Virginia.

I don't know the league becomes better by trading that for Central Florida. Yikes.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:16 sbtnoie
2:21
[Comment From Sam, BostonSam, Boston: ] 
Comparing entire rosters, I seem to think that the UCONN team has more talent top to bottom than Syracuse, but is lacking team chemistry as well as a Kemba Walker to constantly get them out of jams. Tom, please comment.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:21 Sam, Boston
2:22
sbtnoie: 
Sam:

I'll take Syracuse, where guys like Dion Waiters and James Southerland could start for any team in the league. Connecticut is right there, but trailing with no Boatright. Managing the minutes on those rosters cannot be easy.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:22 sbtnoie
2:22
[Comment From Tim, NYCTim, NYC: ] 
Your comment about a Canadian trip in August may be a good decision by Brey. After he took the boys to Barbados, Maui, and Ireland in the recent past, the team didn't seem as hungry to return for work in South Bend.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:22 Tim, NYC
2:23
sbtnoie: 
Tim:

I'm skeptical of a foreign tour. The last two foreign tours this team took - to Barbados and to Ireland - it went to the NIT both seasons. Coincidence? I think it might be more of a grind.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:23 sbtnoie
2:23
[Comment From Bill, New YorkBill, New York: ] 
Since the Big East basketball conference seems to be down this year, how many teams do you see getting bids to the dance? Also, how many regular season Big East wins will it take to get there?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:23 Bill, New York
2:26
sbtnoie: 
Bill:

That's the $64,000 question, and one that doesn't yet have an answer. Can 9-9 get the Irish into seventh? Eighth? That, at the very least, will keep the Irish in the discussion come Selection Sunday.

The criteria for what Notre Dame needs to do to get to the NCAA tournament has changed since league play started. Back in December, I said that the Irish needed to win the Big East Championship for a shot. But that was before Pittsburgh was a train wreck, Villanova was bad and Louisville so inconsistent.

That might help Notre Dame, but even at 9-9, that means the Irish are going to New York at 17-13. Man, that's a lot of losses to stake your claim as one of the nation's top 68.


Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:26 sbtnoie
2:26
[Comment From Lawrence, South BendLawrence, South Bend: ] 
Which ND basketball player gives the best interviews? Who's personality sticks out most on the team?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:26 Lawrence, South Bend
2:28
sbtnoie: 
Lawrence:

On this team, the most quotable guy is Jack Cooley. He's funny, engaging and often speaks from the heart. That's quote gold right there. Eric Atkins is right there in terms of offering the big-picture response.

Joey Brooks has all-interview potential if he ever becomes a real key guy in the rotation.

There's really not a bad guy on this team to interview. There are guys who maybe won't give you the good quote, but they try. That hasn't always been the case.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:28 sbtnoie
2:28
[Comment From Dan, Fremont, INDan, Fremont, IN: ] 
The atmosphere isn't going to match any arena where the students ring the court. I was very disappointed when the new configuration didn't feature students on the sidelines. Money trumped creating a better home advantage. I do think the change weeded out a lot of older locals which has helped.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:28 Dan, Fremont, IN
2:30
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Ha! Are you serious? Nobody at Notre Dame will go on the record with this, but when the idea of the students ringing the court (like Duke and Michigan State) was being seriously discussed, one of the main concerns was that there would be too many nights where they would be empty seats.

How do you think that would play on national TV?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:30 sbtnoie
2:30
[Comment From Jim, OhioJim, Ohio: ] 
how likely will UConn utilize a full court press against the Irish...especially when Atkins is on the bench? The Irish had a tough time breaking the press with Grant handling the point.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:30 Jim, Ohio
2:31
sbtnoie: 
Jim:

Better worry about Seton Hall first. The Pirates like to play up-tempo and get other teams playing fast, especially when they play at home.

Win or lose tonight, Notre Dame should feel confident heading back out to Hartford for Sunday's game. The Irish won the last time they played at UConn at Gampel. And they know they have to be a whole lot better than they were the first time around.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:31 sbtnoie
2:31
[Comment From Dan, ChicagoDan, Chicago: ] 
Does this season count as a full red-shirt for Katenda even though he didn't enroll until mid-year?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:31 Dan, Chicago
2:33
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Don't know for sure because the Irish can get into the whole technicality of Katenda getting hurt and maybe not being physically able to enroll in the fall. That will be a gray area to address if and when he ever plays.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:33 sbtnoie
2:33
[Comment From Brian (Chicago)Brian (Chicago): ] 
Whoa Mike from Milwaukee. Maybe Glenbard/Glenbrook aren't breeding grounds, but look at other suburban HS in Chicago and that is basketball at its core right there. Just ask Johnathon Peoples. Isiah Thomas, Doc Rivers, Evan Turner, too many names to count. You tell him Tom. I'd take Chicago bball over NY.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:33 Brian (Chicago)
2:34
sbtnoie: 
Brian:

Uh-oh, a Chicago versus New York battle. Always have to go with the hometown on those debates, but picking the Windy City over those legendary pickup games in Rucker Park?

Tough call.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:34 sbtnoie
2:40
[Comment From WOOFWOOF: ] 
Tom, Do you ever remember the Joyce Center being louder than on Sat. Night?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:40 WOOF
2:42
sbtnoie: 
Woof:

There was one game against Connecticut early in the 2007-08 season where it was really rocking after Kyle McAlarney hit some early 3s to help the Irish win. It was pretty crazy last year when Notre Dame connected on 20 3s in the win over Villanova.

But Saturday is right there. Top three for sure.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:42 sbtnoie
2:42
[Comment From Dan - ChicagoDan - Chicago: ] 
Isn't the rule that the NCAA allows 5 school years at most for a player to compete (not necessarily playing years). What is the precedent on this? When and why have certain played been allowed a 6th year? Do most of these petitions to the NCAA for a 6th year succeed or fail?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:42 Dan - Chicago
2:44
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Easy - players are granted a sixth year if they are injured early enough in seasons. If Tim Abromaitis had been hurt in January, there would be no debate - his career would be over. Same with Scott Martin.

There's no concrete evidence to say if the sixth-year petitions fail or not. Each case is different, as it will be for Abromaitis and Martin.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:44 sbtnoie
2:44
[Comment From PetePete: ] 
Mike Brey sure does have soe sound bites from his interviews, what's been your favorite?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:44 Pete
2:46
sbtnoie: 
Pete:

Favorite during his tenure? Man, that's a lot of quotes. All I know is that many writers around the league listen to Brey and mention to me "Man, I wish I worked with him more than my guy. He's the best."

He does get it.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:46 sbtnoie
2:46
[Comment From Peter from JerseyPeter from Jersey: ] 
You have any extras for tonight?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:46 Peter from Jersey
2:46
sbtnoie: 
Best I can do is an extra seat on the train out of New York Penn Station to the game. Will that do?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:46 sbtnoie
2:46
[Comment From Dan - ChicagoDan - Chicago: ] 
Did Martin even play in pre-season games his first year eligible at ND? I know he didn't play actual games.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:46 Dan - Chicago
2:47
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Nope. He was hurt in preseason practice. Never got a chance to play in exhibition games.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:47 sbtnoie
2:49
[Comment From Bill, New YorkBill, New York: ] 
Notre Dame seems to be hitting the jackpot in the recruiting game. What has changed recently? The roster for the next few years is looking more and more like that of a Duke team that is loaded with talent. Tom, your thoughts please.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:49 Bill, New York
2:50
sbtnoie: 
Bill:

Recruiting often goes in cycles - some years you hit it, some years you don't. Notre Dame has done a good job of identifying early the guys they want and then staying on them.

It's not been a case of saying, Oh, gotta recruit Indiana kids better. Burgett committed early in his junior year. They've been on Demetrius Jackson since his freshman year.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:50 sbtnoie
2:51
sbtnoie: 
All right, gotta call it a chat day for now - still a work night for some of us. Appreciate all the questions and comments. We'll be back again next week, same day (Wednesday), same time (Noon).

If you have a question or comment that cannot wait, drop me a note at tnoie@schurz.com" target="_blank" >tnoie@schurz.com. Thanks again. Have a great week.

Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:51 sbtnoie
2:51
 

 
 
 



Tom Noie answered readers' Notre Dame basketball questions in a live chat. Read the transcript.


Tom Noie answered readers' Notre Dame basketball questions in a live chat. Read the transcript.

 Live Chat: Talk Notre Dame basketball with Tom Noie(01/25/2012) 
11:59
sbtnoie: 
Yes.....it really did happen. It was not a dream, though for a good chunk of Saturday night at Purcell Pavilion, it sure seemed like one.

The same Notre Dame team that staggered through many a long night in November and December finally delivered an evening and and effort to remember Saturday against previously unbeaten and top-ranked Syracuse.

The Irish jumped to a fast start. They hit shots. They controlled tempo. They had answers for every time the Orange looked like they would wake up and roar back.

A week of skepticism ended just after 8 Saturday night with fans storming the Purcell Pavilion floor and another No. 1 team losing in South Bend.

Like the win in Louisville, Saturday's game showed just how good this Notre Dame team can be when it makes shots, when it refuses to play fast, when it shares the ball. The trick now becomes can the Irish do it again tonight in the Prudential Center against Seton Hall.

We can discuss tonight's game and the week that was last week on today's Notre Dame hoops chat. Be sure to include your name and hometown with your question or comment.

Off we go.........
Wednesday January 25, 2012 11:59 sbtnoie
12:04
[Comment From Brian (Chicago)Brian (Chicago): ] 
Tom, Loved your articles from Saturday morning to today's from all the coverage of the Cuse game and aftermath. Won't forgot that game for a while. Finally the crowd seemed much better, but that is expected for Cuse of course. Let's see if it lasts. Hope you didn't get trampled! Who will have to step up the most to contain Theodore and Pope tonight? What do you want from Portillos?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:04 Brian (Chicago)
12:09
sbtnoie: 
Brian:

Thanks for the kind words regarding the SBT coverage from Saturday - certainly a night to remember. And since our seats are safely tucked into the corner of third row of media seating (all by design), we were safe and sound out of harm's way.

Jordan Theodore and Herb Pope are going to be tough matchups for Notre Dame tonight. Both are making serious pushes for first-team all-league honors. Pope is one of only two players in the Big East averaging a double-double for points and rebounds. He's a bear around the basket. That will have to be a team effort - Jack Cooley, Scott Martin, maybe Mike Broghammer will get chances to guard him.

Maybe this is a night Joey Brooks plays a few more minutes to slow Theodore. He's a tough cover and was really bad last time out against Villanova - 2-for-16 from the floor.

No matter what the Irish do with Pope and Theodore, they cannot....cannot....cannot let the Pirates get confident from 3 in their own building. Notre Dame was really bad guarding the 3 last time out on the road against Rutgers. Can't let that happen again.

As for Portillo's - the usual. Big beef and a Chicago dog. And hurry up. I'm hungry.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:09 sbtnoie
12:14
[Comment From Brooks Fan-ChicagoBrooks Fan-Chicago: ] 
Tom , thanks to you and the SBT for the great Syracuse coverage. And all year for that matter. Pure gold. But I wonder about your prior answer, as I think one area ND has improved this year is perimeter defense. Has this been a point of renewed emphasis in practice? (And yes, I recall that they don;t let you guys into practice).
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:14 Brooks Fan-Chicago
12:18
sbtnoie: 
Brooks Fan:

Again, thanks for the kudos regarding our coverage. This Irish team may not be as good as last year's outfit, but you can never say the season's not interesting.

As for perimeter defense, not really more of an emphasis in practice, but just having a different type of athlete on the squad helps. Look at the guards this year as opposed to previous seasons.

Eric Atkins, Jerian Grant, Alex Dragicevich and Pat Connaughton. All of them have long arms and are really athletic. They can close out on and bother shooters better than some of the shorter guys of previous teams - Tory Jackson, Kyle McAlarney, Chris Quinn.

I mentioned using Joey Brooks more because of his physical skills and defensive ability. Jerian Grant spent so much time chasing Jeremy Lamb a couple games ago that he had nothing left on offense. Notre Dame is going to have to score tonight as well - Grant can do that if Brooks can concentrate on limiting Theodore.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:18 sbtnoie
12:18
[Comment From PetePete: ] 
Why hasn't Demetrius Jackson committed to the Irish yet? It seems like he's practically on the team already!
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:18 Pete
12:21
sbtnoie: 
Pete:

Great question, and one that has no answer. It has to drive the Notre Dame coaches nuts - the kid's been in the locker room after the wins over Pittsburgh and Syracuse. He's been to practice. He mentions on Twitter before Christmas that he was close to committing..........and then nothing.

There was talk around South Bend earlier in January that Jackson would choose Michigan State.....but if that's the case, he certainly wouldn't be in the Notre Dame locker room Saturday.

So what gives? Who knows? Again, you're dealing with a teenager who's faced with a massive decision. Not an easy situation. Notre Dame has done everything right in this situation. It's now up to Jackson to make a choice.

When that might happen, I don't think anyone knows. Including Jackson.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:21 sbtnoie
12:21
[Comment From Brad in South BendBrad in South Bend: ] 
As Brian mentioned, the coverage surrounding the 'Cuse game was awesome. What a great win and it was an amazing atmosphere. Have you heard anything since the game regarding Demetrius Jackson? I know he was in the locker room after the game Saturday but he was also in the locker room after the Pitt win and still hasn't committed. What is his status and how close are we to signing him? Thanks Tom, and let's get a win tonight!
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:21 Brad in South Bend
12:22
sbtnoie: 
Brad:

Great to hear from you. Pete beat you to the punch with the Demetrius Jackson question - see above for the answer. Take care.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:22 sbtnoie
12:22
[Comment From Tim, NYCTim, NYC: ] 
How do you explain the discrepancy between Jack Cooley's appearance (clumsy) and his effectiveness (very high)? He doesn't look very pretty but sure seems to get the job done. Does he remind you of Bill Lambeer?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:22 Tim, NYC
12:26
sbtnoie: 
Tim:

Good to hear from someone in NYC - currently working from my hotel in midtown before catching the train out to Newark tonight. Thanks for the weather. Quality.

Regardless of how Jack Cooley looks when he plays, Mike Brey likely will tell him, just keep doing it. I know he was the same way when Brey and former Irish assistant coach Gene Cross recruited him out of suburban Chicago. He didn't always look smooth, but you can't argue with the results.

Cooley keeps this up, he's going to make a run at most improved player, and maybe an all-league team, in the Big East. He's moved to the top of the list for team most valuable player honors to date.

The burn offense really suits his style - if the Irish were running and gunning, he'd probably labor to play 25 minutes. But he goes for 30-plus against the 'Cuse.

As for Bill Laimbeer, don't know about that comparison. A little before my time.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:26 sbtnoie
12:26
[Comment From Brian (Chicago)Brian (Chicago): ] 
Was just gonna ask about Brooks. Just seems he isn't in sync with the offense which sucks cause he is able to guard the opposing team's best perimeter player. Just the opposite with Drago, but he was awesome Saturday. Good to see Tom KnightKnighgggplaying well too.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:26 Brian (Chicago)
12:28
sbtnoie: 
Brian:

Don't lose the faith with Joey Brooks just yet. If this season has proved anything, every guy on the roster is going to get his turn. Even when they're struggling (like Dragicevich since the Pittsburgh game) it comes back around and guys are able to respond.

Even Knight, who logged a DNP-CD in the Louisville game stayed with it and was huge against Syracuse.

It's tough with Brooks because he is so offensively-challenged. What does he do well? it would help if he was a knock-down foul shooter - then he could get to the basket and get fouled. But he hits only 62.8 percent from the line. Gotta be better.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:28 sbtnoie
12:29
[Comment From Sam, BostonSam, Boston: ] 
A two part question: Why does Notre Dame seem to be affected by inconsistency? If you were forming a team for this year, would you select Jack Cooley or Herb Pope for your center?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:29 Sam, Boston
12:33
sbtnoie: 
Sam:

Inconsistency in terms of what? Play? Production?

A major part of it is having such a young team, and having guys in such new roles trying to figure it all out. It's one thing to be good against Pittsburgh in that win, but as good as the Irish were that night, they had to be even better the next time out against Cincinnati.

It's one thing to win at Louisville and then at home against South Florida, but this team is still learning you have to be really, really, really good the next time out against Connecticut.

As for taking Herb Pope or Jack Cooley? Man, tough call. If it was for only one year, I'd take Pope who seems to be in the same mode Ben Hansbrough was in last year as far as chasing greatness and getting his team to the NCAA tournament. He's played every single game like no one can deny him.

But Cooley has another year after this one - he could be really good next year, too. Start with Pope, but follow with Cooley as your sixth man.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:33 sbtnoie
12:33
[Comment From Brian (Chicago)Brian (Chicago): ] 
Whoops got screwed up there....Don't let Chris Christie steal the Portillos, interesting the connection he has with Brey. Pretty cool. How confident are you that ND can have the same intensity against the lower trier teams to close the season? lower
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:33 Brian (Chicago)
12:35
sbtnoie: 
Brian:

Really confident. Look, if Notre Dame can win at Louisville and win at home over undefeated Syracuse, the Irish could beat any team remaining on their schedule. They just have to understand to bring the same type of mindset into the game against DePaul or Rutgers or Villanova or St. John's or Providence as they did in the big wins.

Their margin for error is too slim for anything less. If they can do that, then Notre Dame is in the 10-league win range, and you know what that means.......
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:35 sbtnoie
12:36
[Comment From Sam, BostonSam, Boston: ] 
Does Notre Dame's upcoming Big East schedule seem to be highly favorable? In my opinion, games at UCONN and West Virginia seem to be the only 2 games that might not be highly competitive. Tom, please comment.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:36 Sam, Boston
12:38
sbtnoie: 
Sam:

Absolutely. Look at what happens when February arrives. Five of Notre Dame's final nine league games are away from home. Of the four road games, two are against teams - Villanova and St. John's - that are near the bottom of the league standings.

Marquette is going to be a tough one to get at home, but it is at home. If Notre Dame can beat Syracuse at Purcell Pavilion, it can beat Marquette.

Take care of business at home, steal one or two on the road and suddenly you're in the discussion come Selection Sunday (not saying they're going to the NCAA tournament) because you're flirting with a finish in the top half of the Big East.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:38 sbtnoie
12:38
[Comment From Bob, Roch NYBob, Roch NY: ] 
Beating a very athletic Syracuse team, albeit undermanned without Fab Melo, must be encouraging given the issue ND has historically had with such teams, how good do you think this Irish team will be by this time next year?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:38 Bob, Roch NY
12:40
sbtnoie: 
Bob:

They're going to be really, really good even before a decision is reached on Tim Abromaitis and/or Scott Martin returning for a fifth year.

Everyone else is coming back (as we know now). There's a talented recruiting class on the way. Garrick Sherman becomes eligible. As thin as the rotation has been this season - and it's been scary bare at times - that's not going to be the case next season.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:40 sbtnoie
12:40
[Comment From Bill, New YorkBill, New York: ] 
Since each 6th year petition to the NCAA is examined independently, is there any remote chance that both Scott Martin and Tim Abromaitis could each be granted a 6th year of eligibility? Also, if all 13 players on next year's roster return to compete, could both Scott Martin and Tim Abromaitis join the team as walk ons?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:40 Bill, New York
12:42
sbtnoie: 
Bill:

There's always a chance one or both or neither could be back next year. It's going to be a stretch for the NCAA to green-light two sixth years off one team.

If one or both return, there would have to be some creative roster management to bring them back as scholarship players. Notre Dame will have the full allotment of 13 on scholarship without either.

Might be a headache, or a nice problem to have for Brey. We'll see.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:42 sbtnoie
12:42
[Comment From Bill, New YorkBill, New York: ] 
If Demetrius Jackson takes his talents elsewhere, would you still believe that Notre Dame's point guard position would still be in excellent shape with both Eric Atkins and Jerian Grant?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:42 Bill, New York
12:45
sbtnoie: 
Bill:

Before this season, I would say no. Now I feel differently in watching Grant work for long stretches this season as the primary handler.

I remember fans were really concerned in preseason about what would happen if Atkins fell into foul trouble. Look what happened against Syracuse. Atkins goes to the bench, Grant takes over. Dragicevich helps handle. Connaughton does some stuff. The Irish weathered that problem nicely.

Jackson would be a great get, but it wouldn't set the program back if it didn't work out.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:45 sbtnoie
12:45
[Comment From Brian (Chicago)Brian (Chicago): ] 
Thanks for answering all my questions!!! I swear its the computer screwing up my writing, not me! Last one: will the NCAA tourny committee really hurt ND with their non-conference losses to Maryland and Georgiaa? or will hte end of the BE regular season and tournament play cont for more?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:45 Brian (Chicago)
12:48
sbtnoie: 
Brian:

That's a question that remains to be answered by how the rest of the Big East shakes out.

Say Notre Dame finishes ninth or 10th in the league and is right there on the cusp of earning an NCAA tournament bid. The selection committee is going to want to see what the Irish did in non-league play. There's really nothing there. Yes, they played a tough schedule, but they really needed to get one of those wins (Georgia, Indiana, Maryland) to sway any late decision in their favor.

In that case, it would hurt.

Then again, if the Irish can find some way to finish seventh, maybe even eighth, there might not be a debate. Either way, it might be a really close call as in one of the first four out or one of the first four in.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:48 sbtnoie
12:48
[Comment From Bob, New JerseyBob, New Jersey: ] 
West Virginia seems to be the surprise team in the Big East so far this year. Do you ever recall Notre Dame winning a game in Morgantown? I seem to recall David Graves being called for a touch foul with 1 second left about 10 years ago, and the Irish lost at the buzzer due to those free throws.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:48 Bob, New Jersey
12:51
sbtnoie: 
Bob:

West Virginia doesn't have to be the surprise team in the league for Morgantown to be a tough place to play of late.

Notre Dame has lost in its last three trips to WVU Coliseum after having won four in a row. The teams David Graves was on won twice his final two years there.

The game you're thinking of might be the Chris Quinn team when it lost 71-70 in the closing seconds of that 2005-06 season where the Irish seemingly lost every game by one or two points late in regulation or overtime.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:51 sbtnoie
12:51
[Comment From Brooks Fan-ChicagoBrooks Fan-Chicago: ] 
Tom, a source of concern for me coming down the stretch in the Syracuse game was their press on our inbounds and double (and sometimes triple) teams trapping the ball. I worry about our handling that kind of pressure, and hope the team has been spending some time on that.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:51 Brooks Fan-Chicago
12:53
sbtnoie: 
BFC:

Exactly, which is why I wondered if the Orange were going to make a serious push to get back in the game. The Irish have shown they can handle the press - and long as they stay strong in their habits and not get flustered.

Every team is going to want to speed up the game against Notre Dame. But the Irish have smart guys who have to understand that, and know that if they don't panic, all can be OK.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:53 sbtnoie
12:53
[Comment From GuestGuest: ] 
Pete Coto De Caza, CA Ok Ok Fritz Hoefer Bookstore Basketball founder sent me to my room for saying Syracuse would kill us by 30. I'm sorry - can I come out now. I now believe.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:53 Guest
12:55
sbtnoie: 
Pete:

Yes, you can come out now.

I didn't think Syracuse would win by 30, but based on what I saw from Notre Dame against Connecticut and against Rutgers, I figured Syracuse would beat the Irish. They looked sooooooo overmatched against the Huskies, and the Orange are deeper and more talented.

Like Mike Brey said in Tuesday's SBT - it was sort of the perfect storm of everything coming together in Notre Dame's favor. When the Irish hit shots early, it got everyone to believe. And then they delivered.

Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:55 sbtnoie
12:55
[Comment From Tim, AlbanyTim, Albany: ] 
Troy Murphy led the Big East in rebounding during 2 seasons. Do you think that Jack Cooley is as tenacious a rebounder as Troy Murphy was?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:55 Tim, Albany
12:57
sbtnoie: 
Tim:

Not yet. Troy was really, really, really good right away as a freshman. You could tell early one that he was better than everyone else. He played like a pro.

Jack Cooley doesn't have the natural talent as Murphy, but man, does he squeeze everything out of what he does have.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:57 sbtnoie
12:57
[Comment From Tim, AlbanyTim, Albany: ] 
Would you say that Notre Dame has a deeper bench than Seton Hall? Does Herb Pope have an adequate back up if the Irish can get him into foul trouble?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 12:57 Tim, Albany
1:00
sbtnoie: 
Tim:

Just based on minutes, Notre Dame's bench is deeper - the Irish have eight guys who log double-figures for minutes; the Pirates have seven. Pope is one of four Hall starters playing at least 30 minutes a game.

As much as we've talked about Pope and Theodore, keep an eye on one Fuqan Edwin. He leads the league in steals (58), is second on the squad in scoring (14.3 ppg.) and can be a matchup nightmare.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:00 sbtnoie
1:00
[Comment From Bob, Roch NYBob, Roch NY: ] 
What are the early views on Kaetena in practices so far?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:00 Bob, Roch NY
1:02
sbtnoie: 
Bob:

Still too early, but he looks the part of a skilled big man. I haven't seen him practice, but I did watch him go through pre-practice shooting drills last week. He has a soft touch around the basket and can step out and hit a shot.

The Irish coaches are taking their time with him - he didn't go in any five-on-five situations last week because he was still learning the system. Notre Dame would like to take it slowly with him through the summer.

The Irish are going on a foreign tour to Canada in August. That might be the time to figure out if Katenda can play at this level.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:02 sbtnoie
1:08
sbtnoie: 
Quick story - last time Notre Dame played in the Prudential Center (where game is tonight), I left the building wondering if the college career of three-time All-American Luke Harangody was over.

Harangody was hurt late in the second half of a 90-87 loss to Seton Hall on Feb. 11, 2010. He suffered a bone bruise to his right knee and missed five games. Harangody returned and had one really big game - in the Big East Championship but never really was the same.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:08 sbtnoie
1:16
[Comment From Sam, BostonSam, Boston: ] 
With the talent level of the basketball team elevated for next year and beyond, can't all Notre Dame fans finally realistically expect deep runs into the Big East or the NCAA tournament if Lady Luck with herselection bracket is on their side? Also, I still believe that we have a difference of opinion about the basketball playing talents of Arik Armstead. Even though he probably will go somewhere else, his great basketball game combined with all the other returning Irish players still helps me see the Irish cutting down the nets if he decides to come to South Bend.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:16 Sam, Boston
1:21
sbtnoie: 
Sam:

We're still beating that Arik Armstead drum? How in the world can anyone - you me, a recruiting analyst - project how good Armstead could be after he's played only one year of high school hoops. And he was average at best - 12 points, nine rebounds. That certainly doesn't scream Big East player of the year.

Here's the thing with him - the kid is by all accounts the No. 1 college football prospect still uncommitted. That means he's supposed to be really, really, really good. Like play as a freshman good. Like go to the NFL one day good.

Say Armstead did choose Notre Dame. If he's as good as his press clippings, he would live, breathe, sleep in the Gug from July through January. When would he have time to concentrate on hoops. If there was a chance he could play both, Brian Kelly would DEMAND that Armstead not pick up a basketball until January at the earliest.

Arik Armstead will be really good at one.....sport....only. It will be the sport he chooses to concentrate on.

As for the first part of your question, we should EXPECT deep runs into the Big East Championship and NCAA tournament every year. Whether that happens is an entirely different matter. A whole lot of luck is part of the equation, and the Irish have fallen far short in that department.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:21 sbtnoie
1:22
[Comment From Tim, NYCTim, NYC: ] 
During these busy bb times, I wonder how and when the players find time to be students. When on the road, for example, do they have planned study time without attending class, and when the game ends tonight, do they linger on the coast before the Conn game or come home?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:22 Tim, NYC
1:27
sbtnoie: 
Tim:

Now that the spring semester has started, Notre Dame's travel is a bit tricky. Take this week.

For tonight's game at Seton Hall, the Irish went to a full day of class on Tuesday, practiced, had dinner then hopped their charter into Newark Liberty International Airport last night.

Notre Dame will play tonight's game, then head straight for the airport and its charter flight back to South Bend - regardless of what time the Irish finally get back to campus, they'll be in all their classes on Thursday and class again on Friday before leaving sometime Saturday for Hartford and Sunday's game against Connecticut.

Again, the Irish will charter home immediately after Sunday's game to be in class on Monday. Some schools might stay out - South Florida, for example, was on the road for something like six straight days between games - and that was when classes were IN session.

Pat Holmes, the basketball program's academic adviser, usually travels with the team during the week to help coordinate classwork.

Notre Dame historically has been in New York for the Big East Championship during midterm exams, and Holmes has given tests or had papers be written in a hotel conference room before games.

It's these little things that fans don't see - or take for granted - that underscore how tough it is to compete in this league - or any league - in this day and age of late starts/travel. It can be a grind.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:27 sbtnoie
1:27
[Comment From Sam, BostonSam, Boston: ] 
Now that Tom Knight seems ready for prime time, why doesn't Mike Brey play the combo of Jack Cooley and Tom Knight to elevate their strengths together in the low post?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:27 Sam, Boston
1:29
sbtnoie: 
Sam:

That would work well, say, Sunday against Connecticut against fellow bigs Andre Drummond and Alex Oriakhi. Not so much against teams that like to go with smaller, quicker lineups. It's hard enough for Jack Cooley to chase a smaller guy, but Cooley and Knight? Yikes. Defensive mismatches all around.

Let's see Knight build off what he did Saturday. He was good. Now he has to be better, then maybe he's ready for more.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:29 sbtnoie
1:30
[Comment From Bob, New JerseyBob, New Jersey: ] 
During recent games how does Notre Dame's free throw accuracy percentages compare with earlier in the year?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:30 Bob, New Jersey
1:34
sbtnoie: 
Bob:

It was a little better earlier in the year when Notre Dame had a decided height and talent advantage against a good chunk of the teams it played. The Irish were 24-of-29 (82.8 percent) against Mississippi Valley State, 22-of-28 (78.6) against Delaware State and 21-of-28 (75 percent) against Bryant.

The Irish have connected on at least 70 percent of their foul shots in three of their first seven league games - Cincinnati (72.7), Louisville (75.9) and Syracuse (70.4). Notre Dame was really bad against Rutgers (5-of-13, 38.5 percent), but that stat is a little misleading.

Over the final 10 minutes of the game, the Irish missed only two free throws, but also missed eight layups. That would have really made a difference.

When Notre Dame can control the tempo and play at its pace, it usually has the legs to hit free throws. When other teams speed up the Irish, and they spend a good majority of time chasing and trying to guard quicker guys (Connecticut, Rutgers), they struggle shooting free throws.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:34 sbtnoie
1:34
[Comment From Dan - ChicagoDan - Chicago: ] 
Assuming, Abro and Martin don't come back next year, do you see a starting front line of Cooley, Connaughton, & Biedschield?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:34 Dan - Chicago
1:36
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Too early to tell. Do you start a freshman in Cameron Biedscheid instead of Garrick Sherman who already has two years of college under his belt? Do you want to play big or play fast.

There will be plenty of time to figure out how all the pieces fit. Cameron Biedscheid, by all indications, is really good. I'd like to see him play pickup in the summer to see how his game fits before ticketing him as a sure-fire starter.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:36 sbtnoie
1:36
[Comment From Bob, New JerseyBob, New Jersey: ] 
Based on what you're hearing as well as your previous answer to a question above, would you say that the chances of Eric Katenda playing on next year's team are looking somewhat better?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:36 Bob, New Jersey
1:37
sbtnoie: 
Bob:

Too early to tell. If anything, it might make Mike Brey's decision tougher. In the days after Katenda suffered the injury that cost him visit in his left eye, Brey was pretty adamant - the kid's career was over. No chance at ever playing.

He's since hedged away from that. I don't know if Brey will know in the next three or four months just what, if anything, Katenda can offer.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:37 sbtnoie
1:38
[Comment From AnitaAnita: ] 
A couple of weeks ago, Angelo DiCarlo from that "other" South Bend TV station's sports department, Tweeted that Notre Dame had 'no shot" against Syracuse. Please feel free to razz him on behalf of the fans in chat the next time you see him.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:38 Anita
1:41
sbtnoie: 
Anita:

Truth be told, Angelo is a graduate of Syracuse and probably just feeling a little pride about the alma mater when the Orange were ranked No. 1 and flying through the first 20 games of the season without a loss.

Honestly, there probably were a lot of people around town believing Notre Dame had no shot Saturday. based on the previous two games (Connecticut, Rutgers), I was one of them.

I was on record saying that if Notre Dame beat Connecticut, it would beat Syracuse. But the way the Irish played against the Huskies, who just were a whole lot better that day, I wondered how Notre Dame would fare against a better Orange team.

I didn't know the shots would fall. I didn't know Purcell Pavilion could actually hold that much juice for 40 minutes. I didn't know Syracuse could be as disinterested as it seemed.

Glad I was wrong.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:41 sbtnoie
1:41
[Comment From Dan, Fremont, INDan, Fremont, IN: ] 
Hey Tom how about that crowd Saturday? On their feet 2:30 into the game. One local reporter used the word frenzied.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:41 Dan, Fremont, IN
1:43
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Crowd finally elevated their game - but come one, nationally televised game against the nation's top-ranked team in a place that has such history.

Make sure you get back to me about how well the crowds were for DePaul and Rutgers and West Virginia and Providence.

If you're going to bring it against the 'Cuse, no excuse not to bring it every other night as well.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:43 sbtnoie
1:43
[Comment From Bill, New yorkBill, New york: ] 
Do you think that Eric Atkins and Jerian Grant are driving to the hoop as much as they could? With their great free throw shooting accuracy, it seems that they should try to exploit their driving ability more.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:43 Bill, New york
1:44
sbtnoie: 
Bill:

Good point. I would love to see both get to the basket more, but part of that may be by design. With Cooley and Martin operating close to the basket, and Connaughton usually on the wing, sending Grant or Atkins to the basket leaves Notre Dame open for some run-outs in case of a miss/block/turnover.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:44 sbtnoie
1:44
[Comment From Dan - ChicagoDan - Chicago: ] 
What are the chances of Auguste and/or Burgett getting redshirted next year?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:44 Dan - Chicago
1:45
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Probably pretty good given the history of Mike Brey holding guys back to get them older and stronger. Especially if Abromaitis or Martin come back. One of those guys returns, there will be minimal minutes to go around.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:45 sbtnoie
1:45
[Comment From trec, chicagotrec, chicago: ] 
Will it be the burn tonight?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:45 trec, chicago
1:47
sbtnoie: 
trec:

Burn it will be. Mike Brey was very clear in today's SBT story - the tempo has to be to Notre Dame's liking. If it's an open-floor game of getting up and and down, he believes the Irish have "no shot."

Control the tempo, slow down Seton Hall and frustrated the Pirates into guarding. Do that, and get a lead, and suddenly a seven-point cushion becomes like a 12-point lead because of minimal possessions.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:47 sbtnoie
1:47
[Comment From Bill, New YorkBill, New York: ] 
Until Eric Katenda took sick during his junior year of high school, wasn't he a consensus top 50 recruit?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:47 Bill, New York
1:48
sbtnoie: 
BIll:

Indeed he was. He was top 100 early in his senior season before dropping. I haven't seen much of him, but the bits and pieces I saw before practice last week underscore that the kid's a talent. We'll see what happens.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:48 sbtnoie
1:49
[Comment From Todd, chicagoTodd, chicago: ] 
Will it be the burn tonight?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:49 Todd, chicago
1:49
sbtnoie: 
Todd:

You and trec brothers? Just kidding. Yep. First one to 60 wins tonight at The Rock.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:49 sbtnoie
1:52
[Comment From Bill, New YorkBill, New York: ] 
It seems that the matchup against UCONN is the worst for Notre Dame in the entire Big East since UCONN has many long athletic and super quick players. If the Irish successfully control tempo by holding the ball til under the 10 second mark, do you think that the game next Sunday can at least be competitive?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:52 Bill, New York
1:54
sbtnoie: 
Bill:

Yes, especially since UConn has some issues since the teams last met. That can work in Notre Dame's favor to where the Huskies might think, hey, we've got problems, but we beat these guys earlier this month, so this is going to be easy.

Connecticut will have not played in the previous eight days. Notre Dame could steal it, just as it did last year at Gampel on Senior Day.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:54 sbtnoie
1:55
[Comment From Bill, New YorkBill, New York: ] 
A follow up question: Could you compare the atmosphere for the Irish playing at the large venue in Hartford to that of playing at the Gampel Pavilion at the Storrs campus?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:55 Bill, New York
1:57
sbtnoie: 
Bill:

When it's packed, the XL Center is a tougher place to play. That arena was built for hockey (Hartford Whalers back in the day) and the seats are almost right on top of you. Gampel can get loud, but it reminds me a lot of Purcell Pavilion where the noise kind of fades away.

Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:57 sbtnoie
1:57
[Comment From The Dude, Columbus, OHThe Dude, Columbus, OH: ] 
Tom - where do we end the season record, NCAA, NIT or out of all tourney's?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:57 The Dude, Columbus, OH
1:59
sbtnoie: 
Dude:

Nice handle. If I had to say today I'd say the NIT - the non-league resume may see this team come up short. But again, the Irish can find a way to finish 9-9 and that gets them to eighth place in the league, then there's a chance.

Just take care of business at home, steal a few (a big one or two) on the road and head for the Big East Championship knowing that a win or two would help is all you can ask at this point.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:59 sbtnoie
1:59
[Comment From Mike, MilwaukeeMike, Milwaukee: ] 
From the geography of their high schools, which are only a mile apart, Dragicevich and Cooley have suburban roots north of Chicago which isn't a likely breeding ground for the toughness that they show on the court. Instead of recruiting from city blacktops, for which Al McGuire was famous at Marquette, maybe ND should be trolling the north shore library system for talent.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 1:59 Mike, Milwaukee
2:00
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Good one. And watch out, this here SBT writer has deep, deep, deep roots in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. And the streets are meaner than you might think!
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:00 sbtnoie
2:00
[Comment From John, ChampaignJohn, Champaign: ] 
I have a simple suggestion. Whenever anyone questions the competency of Coach Brey please write "Syracuse". A simply masterful job. I hope Coach K does not retire anytime soon as we may lose him to Duke.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:00 John, Champaign
2:03
sbtnoie: 
John:

Great point. Unfortunately. if the Irish struggle tonight, too many people will say it's because of Mike Brey. Guy's a bum. Get rid of him. Start over.

So wrong. The guy can coach. Yes, he's fallen short in the NCAA tournament on more than one occasion, but you can't overlook the entire body of work. Can't.

Look at what Notre Dame accomplished in the last year - Jan 24, 2011 to Jan. 24, 2012. The Irish have beaten Pittsburgh twice, once at Petersen Events Center. They've beaten Connecticut twice. They won at Louisville. They beat previously undefeated and No. 1 Syracuse. They beat Wisconsin and Gonzaga. They almost won a regular-season league championship and were some nine minutes away from playing for the Big East Championship.

Brey has his faults, but the guy can coach.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:03 sbtnoie
2:06
[Comment From Tim, AlbanyTim, Albany: ] 
With Navy now in line to join the Big East for football, does it make it more likely that Notre Dame will continue to play in a strong Big East basketball conference with its long standing members as well as teams from Houston, Central Florida and the like?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:06 Tim, Albany
2:08
sbtnoie: 
Tim:

No, especially with news that the Big 12 plans to talk about expansion. If the Big 12 wants to be the Bigger 12, Louisville and Cincinnati make the most sense, which further cripples the Big East.

Unless the Big East adds Pittsburgh, Syracuse and West Virginia, the most logical spot for Notre Dame remains the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Will that ever happen?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:08 sbtnoie
2:12
[Comment From Dan, Fremont, INDan, Fremont, IN: ] 
I watched countless BE games and I'd submit that our crowd (the locals) isn't all that dissimilar from most BE venues. Case in point is saturday's @Marquette vs. Pitt. In a close game the locals sat on their hands until the very end.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:12 Dan, Fremont, IN
2:14
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

For a program that has had home win streaks of 45 and 29 and had been undefeated at home three of the previous five years, it makes you wonder how they did it.

Purcell Pavilion may rank eighth - on a good day - in terms of toughest home court atmospheres in the league. And not a lot of people inside the hoops program would disagree.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:14 sbtnoie
2:14
[Comment From Tim, AlbanyTim, Albany: ] 
A follow up question: Do you believe that even with Pittsburgh and Syracuse jumping ship, the Big East basketball conference with the UCONNS, Georgetowns, Marquettes etc, easily trumps the ACC for basketball which seems to have to rely on its storied past?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:14 Tim, Albany
2:16
sbtnoie: 
Tim:

To a point, but it becomes so watered down and un-Big East like. Now instead of getting a Syracuse-Pittsburgh matchup on a Friday night in the Garden, you're getting early-round matchups of Houston against USF or SMU against St. John's.

Part of the allure of the Big East Championship was that so many teams had such a strong presence in New York - Syracuse, Pittsburgh, heck even West Virginia.

I don't know the league becomes better by trading that for Central Florida. Yikes.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:16 sbtnoie
2:21
[Comment From Sam, BostonSam, Boston: ] 
Comparing entire rosters, I seem to think that the UCONN team has more talent top to bottom than Syracuse, but is lacking team chemistry as well as a Kemba Walker to constantly get them out of jams. Tom, please comment.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:21 Sam, Boston
2:22
sbtnoie: 
Sam:

I'll take Syracuse, where guys like Dion Waiters and James Southerland could start for any team in the league. Connecticut is right there, but trailing with no Boatright. Managing the minutes on those rosters cannot be easy.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:22 sbtnoie
2:22
[Comment From Tim, NYCTim, NYC: ] 
Your comment about a Canadian trip in August may be a good decision by Brey. After he took the boys to Barbados, Maui, and Ireland in the recent past, the team didn't seem as hungry to return for work in South Bend.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:22 Tim, NYC
2:23
sbtnoie: 
Tim:

I'm skeptical of a foreign tour. The last two foreign tours this team took - to Barbados and to Ireland - it went to the NIT both seasons. Coincidence? I think it might be more of a grind.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:23 sbtnoie
2:23
[Comment From Bill, New YorkBill, New York: ] 
Since the Big East basketball conference seems to be down this year, how many teams do you see getting bids to the dance? Also, how many regular season Big East wins will it take to get there?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:23 Bill, New York
2:26
sbtnoie: 
Bill:

That's the $64,000 question, and one that doesn't yet have an answer. Can 9-9 get the Irish into seventh? Eighth? That, at the very least, will keep the Irish in the discussion come Selection Sunday.

The criteria for what Notre Dame needs to do to get to the NCAA tournament has changed since league play started. Back in December, I said that the Irish needed to win the Big East Championship for a shot. But that was before Pittsburgh was a train wreck, Villanova was bad and Louisville so inconsistent.

That might help Notre Dame, but even at 9-9, that means the Irish are going to New York at 17-13. Man, that's a lot of losses to stake your claim as one of the nation's top 68.


Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:26 sbtnoie
2:26
[Comment From Lawrence, South BendLawrence, South Bend: ] 
Which ND basketball player gives the best interviews? Who's personality sticks out most on the team?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:26 Lawrence, South Bend
2:28
sbtnoie: 
Lawrence:

On this team, the most quotable guy is Jack Cooley. He's funny, engaging and often speaks from the heart. That's quote gold right there. Eric Atkins is right there in terms of offering the big-picture response.

Joey Brooks has all-interview potential if he ever becomes a real key guy in the rotation.

There's really not a bad guy on this team to interview. There are guys who maybe won't give you the good quote, but they try. That hasn't always been the case.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:28 sbtnoie
2:28
[Comment From Dan, Fremont, INDan, Fremont, IN: ] 
The atmosphere isn't going to match any arena where the students ring the court. I was very disappointed when the new configuration didn't feature students on the sidelines. Money trumped creating a better home advantage. I do think the change weeded out a lot of older locals which has helped.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:28 Dan, Fremont, IN
2:30
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Ha! Are you serious? Nobody at Notre Dame will go on the record with this, but when the idea of the students ringing the court (like Duke and Michigan State) was being seriously discussed, one of the main concerns was that there would be too many nights where they would be empty seats.

How do you think that would play on national TV?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:30 sbtnoie
2:30
[Comment From Jim, OhioJim, Ohio: ] 
how likely will UConn utilize a full court press against the Irish...especially when Atkins is on the bench? The Irish had a tough time breaking the press with Grant handling the point.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:30 Jim, Ohio
2:31
sbtnoie: 
Jim:

Better worry about Seton Hall first. The Pirates like to play up-tempo and get other teams playing fast, especially when they play at home.

Win or lose tonight, Notre Dame should feel confident heading back out to Hartford for Sunday's game. The Irish won the last time they played at UConn at Gampel. And they know they have to be a whole lot better than they were the first time around.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:31 sbtnoie
2:31
[Comment From Dan, ChicagoDan, Chicago: ] 
Does this season count as a full red-shirt for Katenda even though he didn't enroll until mid-year?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:31 Dan, Chicago
2:33
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Don't know for sure because the Irish can get into the whole technicality of Katenda getting hurt and maybe not being physically able to enroll in the fall. That will be a gray area to address if and when he ever plays.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:33 sbtnoie
2:33
[Comment From Brian (Chicago)Brian (Chicago): ] 
Whoa Mike from Milwaukee. Maybe Glenbard/Glenbrook aren't breeding grounds, but look at other suburban HS in Chicago and that is basketball at its core right there. Just ask Johnathon Peoples. Isiah Thomas, Doc Rivers, Evan Turner, too many names to count. You tell him Tom. I'd take Chicago bball over NY.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:33 Brian (Chicago)
2:34
sbtnoie: 
Brian:

Uh-oh, a Chicago versus New York battle. Always have to go with the hometown on those debates, but picking the Windy City over those legendary pickup games in Rucker Park?

Tough call.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:34 sbtnoie
2:40
[Comment From WOOFWOOF: ] 
Tom, Do you ever remember the Joyce Center being louder than on Sat. Night?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:40 WOOF
2:42
sbtnoie: 
Woof:

There was one game against Connecticut early in the 2007-08 season where it was really rocking after Kyle McAlarney hit some early 3s to help the Irish win. It was pretty crazy last year when Notre Dame connected on 20 3s in the win over Villanova.

But Saturday is right there. Top three for sure.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:42 sbtnoie
2:42
[Comment From Dan - ChicagoDan - Chicago: ] 
Isn't the rule that the NCAA allows 5 school years at most for a player to compete (not necessarily playing years). What is the precedent on this? When and why have certain played been allowed a 6th year? Do most of these petitions to the NCAA for a 6th year succeed or fail?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:42 Dan - Chicago
2:44
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Easy - players are granted a sixth year if they are injured early enough in seasons. If Tim Abromaitis had been hurt in January, there would be no debate - his career would be over. Same with Scott Martin.

There's no concrete evidence to say if the sixth-year petitions fail or not. Each case is different, as it will be for Abromaitis and Martin.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:44 sbtnoie
2:44
[Comment From PetePete: ] 
Mike Brey sure does have soe sound bites from his interviews, what's been your favorite?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:44 Pete
2:46
sbtnoie: 
Pete:

Favorite during his tenure? Man, that's a lot of quotes. All I know is that many writers around the league listen to Brey and mention to me "Man, I wish I worked with him more than my guy. He's the best."

He does get it.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:46 sbtnoie
2:46
[Comment From Peter from JerseyPeter from Jersey: ] 
You have any extras for tonight?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:46 Peter from Jersey
2:46
sbtnoie: 
Best I can do is an extra seat on the train out of New York Penn Station to the game. Will that do?
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:46 sbtnoie
2:46
[Comment From Dan - ChicagoDan - Chicago: ] 
Did Martin even play in pre-season games his first year eligible at ND? I know he didn't play actual games.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:46 Dan - Chicago
2:47
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Nope. He was hurt in preseason practice. Never got a chance to play in exhibition games.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:47 sbtnoie
2:49
[Comment From Bill, New YorkBill, New York: ] 
Notre Dame seems to be hitting the jackpot in the recruiting game. What has changed recently? The roster for the next few years is looking more and more like that of a Duke team that is loaded with talent. Tom, your thoughts please.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:49 Bill, New York
2:50
sbtnoie: 
Bill:

Recruiting often goes in cycles - some years you hit it, some years you don't. Notre Dame has done a good job of identifying early the guys they want and then staying on them.

It's not been a case of saying, Oh, gotta recruit Indiana kids better. Burgett committed early in his junior year. They've been on Demetrius Jackson since his freshman year.
Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:50 sbtnoie
2:51
sbtnoie: 
All right, gotta call it a chat day for now - still a work night for some of us. Appreciate all the questions and comments. We'll be back again next week, same day (Wednesday), same time (Noon).

If you have a question or comment that cannot wait, drop me a note at tnoie@schurz.com" target="_blank" >tnoie@schurz.com. Thanks again. Have a great week.

Wednesday January 25, 2012 2:51 sbtnoie
2:51
 

 
 
 





Tom Lemming

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