It would have been easy for Notre Dame to pack it in against No. 13 Louisville after shooting 31 percent from the field in the first half, including 2 of 13 from 3-point range. Instead, after trailing by as much as 16, the Irish roared back in the second half to lead by as much as four. But the Cardinals went back out in front and ultimately hung on, 67-64.
The Irish (10-6, 1-4) had a chance to send the game to overtime after John Mooney stole the ball with 37 seconds left. After they took their time looking for a good shot, Prentiss Hubb was short on a close layup. Nate Laszewski got the offensive rebound, but Mooney had to force a desperation corner 3 as time expired. It didn’t fall, and the Cardinals (13-3, 4-1) were victorious.
Mooney had his 10th double-double of the season with 15 points and 19 rebounds. T.J. Gibbs also scored 15. Dane Goodwin came off the bench and contributed 14 points, including four 3-pointers. Rex Pflueger scored six in his first game back from a knee injury.