2009-2010 Notre Dame Predictions
2008-09 Record: (21-15, 8-10 Big East)
Coach: Mike Brey (10th year, 188-101 at Notre Dame)
Assistants: Anthony Soloman, Rod Balanis, Martin Ingelsby
Ret. Starters/Lost: 2/3

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Overview: The offseason could have been a lot worse for Mike Brey and the Irish. He could have lost his star forward Luke Harangody (6-8, 251) and returned just one starter. Insteady, Harangody decided to skip the NBA Draft, since he was not likely to be drafted in the first round. He’s back and a Player of the Year candidate, averaging 25.2ppg and 11.3rpg. He’s the anchor of this team, but he was not enough last year to get them in the NCAA’s. they need help from a pair of transfers in Scott Martin and Ben Hansbrough (Tyler’s bro). They’ll join senior
Tory Jackson (10.6ppg, 4.9apg), who runs the show. Martin (8.5ppg, 3.8rpg) is a transfer from Purdue, who adds size at 6-8, 212 and three more years of experience. Hansbrough (6-3, 205) is a junior transfer from Mississippi State, who averaged 10.5ppg and is a physical guard who can shoot the three. If they need more size, they can go with junior Tyrone Nash (6-8, 220, who provides athleticism up front. They will miss guard Kyle McAlarney, who’s a sharpshooting guard with unlimited range. Freshman Joey Brooks (6-5, 200) can provide scoring in the bakcourt. The lack of proven depth is a an issue and they’ll need some youngsters to step up.

Outlook: Harangody is a superstar, with the ability to go inside or out. He’s a monster on the boards, but he’s not a great defender. This team should have no problem scoring points with Hansbrough getting get looks from the outside. It’s the lack of depth and defense that could end up putting a talented team on the bubble.

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