A New Dawn for Notre Dame Men's Basketball: Embracing Offense Over Defense

Photo byMICHAEL CLUBB/SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE

SOUTH BEND — As the Notre Dame men’s basketball team prepares for the upcoming season, a profound transformation is underway. Under second-year head coach Micah Shrewsberry, the Irish are shifting gears from a defense-first mentality to a dynamic offensive strategy that promises to redefine their game.

Last season was a challenging journey for the Irish, who relied heavily on their defense to survive in the competitive Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). With a scoring average of just 64 points per game—ranking them 342nd nationally—Notre Dame struggled to climb above the 60-point threshold in many games. Their overall record of 13-20 left fans yearning for more from a team that often felt outmatched.

But this season marks a decisive departure from that narrative. “We’re working on how can we be good right out of the gates offensively,” Shrewsberry emphasized, shifting the team's focus to an aggressive, fast-paced style that leverages the talents of positionless players and a flood of shooters. Whether employing four guards and one big man or opting for a five-perimeter setup, the aim is clear: get the ball down the court quickly and score.

The atmosphere surrounding the team has shifted significantly. Returning players now have a clearer understanding of Shrewsberry’s vision, leading to a more cohesive unit ready to embrace a new approach. “It’s going to be a better, fun brand of basketball,” stated senior guard Julian Roper, encapsulating the excitement within the locker room.

This commitment to a more offensive game is intentional, underscored by the team’s practice regimen, which now features a 24-second shot clock to encourage quick decision-making and faster play. “A lot of these guys know Coach Shrews only for defense, but he’s an offensive mastermind,” noted junior power forward Kebba Njie, reflecting on the initial surprise of the style shift.

Shrewsberry’s track record supports this transition. At Penn State, his first year focused on defensive strategies yielded a lackluster scoring output. However, by his second season, the Nittany Lions saw a remarkable turnaround, ranking in the top tier for scoring and securing an NCAA tournament berth. “I knew this was coming,” said sophomore guard Braeden Shrewsberry, recognizing the dual emphasis his father places on offense.

Sophomore point guard Markus Burton also welcomed the change, noting that he no longer bears the entire burden of scoring. “It’s a confidence that I have in myself and my teammates for them to show the world how good they are too,” he expressed, highlighting the collective strength of the team.

As the Irish approach their scrimmages against Xavier and Purdue Fort Wayne, they carry with them a renewed sense of purpose and camaraderie. This season, they are not just aiming to win games; they are set to redefine their identity on the court, embracing a style that promises to thrill fans and challenge the norms of their past.

As the stories of growth and resilience unfold this season, one thing is certain: the Irish are ready to showcase a game that celebrates their strengths, inspires connections, and ignites the passion of their community.