No. 3 Notre Dame Hosts No. 24 Florida State in High-Scoring ACC Showdown

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — No. 3 Notre Dame (24-3, 15-1) is set to take on No. 24 Florida State (22-6, 12-4) in a highly anticipated Atlantic Coast Conference matchup on Thursday, Feb. 27, at 8:00 p.m. at Purcell Pavilion. This clash features the ACC’s top two scoring offenses, making it a must-watch for college basketball fans.

Notre Dame is currently averaging 86.8 points per game, ranking second in the ACC and fourth nationally. Florida State leads the nation with an impressive average of 89.4 points per game. Both teams are eager to prove their prowess following recent performances.

The Fighting Irish are looking to bounce back from their first conference loss of the season, a tough double-overtime defeat against No. 13 NC State on Sunday, where they fell 104-95. Hannah Hidalgo led the scoring for Notre Dame with 26 points, and Sonia Citron played a pivotal role, scoring 23 points, including a buzzer-beating three-pointer that sent the game to overtime.

“We need to regroup and focus on our execution,” said Citron about the upcoming match. “Every game is crucial as the season nears its end, and we’re excited to play at home on Senior Day.”

Meanwhile, Florida State is dealing with injuries to key players. Leading scorer Ta’Niya Latson has sat out the last three games due to an undisclosed injury, and fellow guard O’Mariah Gordon has also missed time. In their absence, Sydney Bowles stepped up significantly, scoring 32 points in a victory over No. 20 Georgia Tech last Sunday.

“We have to adapt and remain resilient,” Bowles said. “Every player on this team is ready to contribute, and we’re looking forward to the challenge that Notre Dame presents.”

Thursday’s game will also serve as Senior Day, where the Irish will honor seven seniors and graduate students before tip-off. Notre Dame has a strong historical record against Florida State, boasting a 13-1 all-time record and remaining undefeated at home.

As the ACC standings tighten, both teams are vying for crucial positioning. Notre Dame is currently second in the conference, while Florida State seeks to keep pace. Fans can catch the game live on the ACC Network, with Jenn Hildreth and Debbie Antonelli on the call. Tip-off is set for 8 p.m.