Amber Aniston • January 4, 2025

UNC Edges Notre Dame 74-73 in Thrilling ACC Clash

The North Carolina Tar Heels secured a dramatic 74-73 victory over the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in a nail-biting ACC contest. The game featured 17 lead changes and came down to a heroic four-point play by Elliot Cadeau in the closing seconds. With the win, the Tar Heels improved to 9-6 overall and 2-1 in ACC play, while Notre Dame fell to 7-7 overall and 1-2 in the conference. 

 


A Competitive First Half 

The first half saw North Carolina dominate the pace of play, largely due to the efforts of Ian Jackson, who poured in 17 of his game-high 27 points in the opening frame. Jackson’s dynamic scoring ability was on full display as he attacked the rim with authority and knocked down mid-range jumpers with consistency. His 10-point flurry during a 14-2 run gave UNC its largest lead of the half. The Tar Heels entered the break with a slim 38-36 advantage. 


Notre Dame showcased resilience in the second quarter, with sharp ball movement and a balanced scoring attack helping them stay within striking distance. While the Fighting Irish struggled to contain Jackson, they found success by capitalizing on fast-break opportunities and forcing turnovers. The competitiveness of the first half set the tone for an exciting second period. 



A Back-and-Forth Second Half 

Notre Dame showcased resilience in the second half, led by the return of Markus Burton. Burton, who had been sidelined with a knee injury since November, provided an immediate spark for the Fighting Irish. His relentless drives to the basket and efficient shooting helped Notre Dame close the gap and eventually take the lead. A 12-0 run midway through the second half, highlighted by Burton’s ability to draw fouls and finish in traffic, shifted the momentum in Notre Dame’s favor. 


Despite the Irish’s surge, North Carolina maintained composure. Elliot Cadeau orchestrated the offense with precision, delivering timely passes and making critical plays under pressure. Jalen Washington’s contributions in the paint also proved vital, as he recorded five blocks and altered several other shots, anchoring the Tar Heels’ defense during crucial stretches. 


As the game entered its final minutes, the intensity reached new heights. With Notre Dame leading 73-70 after two clutch free throws by Matt Allocco, UNC needed a big play to stay alive. Cadeau rose to the occasion, sinking a contested three-pointer from the right wing while drawing a foul. He calmly converted the ensuing free throw, giving the Tar Heels a one-point lead with just under five seconds remaining. 



Key Performances 


Ian Jackson’s Breakout Game 


Ian Jackson was the standout performer for North Carolina, finishing with a career-high 27 points on 11-of-18 shooting. His scoring kept the Tar Heels competitive throughout the game, especially during Notre Dame’s second-half runs. Jackson’s ability to score from all areas of the floor solidified his role as a critical offensive weapon for UNC. 


Elliot Cadeau’s Clutch Play 


Cadeau added 10 points and six assists, with his clutch play in the final moments cementing his status as one of the team’s emerging leaders. His composure under pressure and court vision were pivotal in helping the Tar Heels secure the win. 


Markus Burton’s Impact 


For Notre Dame, Markus Burton’s return was a bright spot. He led the Fighting Irish with 23 points, including 17 in the second half, while also hitting nine of his ten free throw attempts. Burton’s ability to drive and create opportunities was instrumental in Notre Dame’s comeback effort. 

 


Statistical Highlights 

Both teams demonstrated offensive efficiency, with UNC shooting 52.9% from the field and Notre Dame converting 46.7% of their attempts. The Tar Heels’ defense played a significant role, blocking a season-high eight shots and forcing Notre Dame into difficult scoring situations late in the game. 


Notre Dame capitalized on opportunities at the free-throw line, shooting 90% (18-of-20), but their 11 first-half fouls allowed UNC to build an early advantage. 

 



Looking Ahead 

What’s Next for UNC? 


North Carolina will return home to face SMU on Tuesday, looking to build on their momentum. The Mustangs, known for their defensive tenacity, will present another challenge for North Carolina’s evolving lineup. 


Notre Dame’s Next Challenges 


Notre Dame, meanwhile, faces a daunting road schedule with games against NC State and Duke. Head coach Micah Shrewsberry noted the need for adjustments as the Fighting Irish navigate the competitive ACC slate. 


A Defining ACC Battle 

UNC’s narrow 74-73 victory over Notre Dame underscored the resilience and determination required to succeed in ACC basketball. For the Tar Heels, the win was a testament to their ability to execute in critical moments and leverage the talent of emerging stars like Ian Jackson and Elliot Cadeau. For the Fighting Irish, the game highlighted both their potential and the adjustments needed to compete with the conference’s top teams. 


As the season progresses, this game will serve as a building block for UNC’s momentum and a learning opportunity for Notre Dame. Both teams will aim to refine their strategies and make a deeper impact as ACC play continues to unfold. 

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