Mark Allen
Irish Blue And Gold (www.irishblueandgold.com)
Luke Zeller scored 15 points and Russell Carter added 14 as Notre Dame defeated Bellarmine, 85-57 on Monday night.
The Irish were never threatened in this one. They shot the ball well in all facets. From the field, Notre Dame shot 49 percent. They were even better from behind the three-point arc, hitting on 55 percent (10-of-18). The active Irish also connected on 21-of-3o free throws for 70 percent.
Starter Rob Kurz sat this one out for unknown reasons. But, word has it that he will be back for Friday’s opener. Starting in Kurz’ place was sophomore forward Zach Hillesland. He made the most of it, hitting for nine points in the first half.
The Irish, who led at the half, 50-33, continue to be a much improved team on the inside. That includes both the offense and defense. Luke Zeller and Zach Hillesland each had two blocked shots. Zeller and Luke Harangody had nine rebounds each.
Notre Dame was all over the place on defense. They forced twenty-two turnovers. They also had ten steals.
The exhibition season is now over. The Irish looked impressive in their two exhibition games. They open up on Friday, November the 10th versus Central Michigan.
Irish Blue And Gold Items
*For the second game in a row, when Irish Head Coach Mike Brey was announced there were no cheers. As a matter of fact there was a smattering of boos.
*Zach Hillesland was impressive, particularly in the first half of tonight’s game. He scored a total of 9 points. But, there is no doubt, the energy guy this season is Hillesland.
*Tory Jackson is another energy guy. He is lightning quick. He will definitely be an asset, both offensively and defensively.
Look for game recaps all season long from Mark Allen of Irish Blue And Gold. The staff, which includes Louie Villalobos and Tom Hamilton, invites you to join our message board and contribute to a very good group of Fighting Irish fans. Go to www.irishblueandgold.com and click on the “Message Boards” icon (it’s contained in the picture of the woman in a green shirt with raised arms) on the left side of the page and register.
