Notre Dame Rallies From 10 Down In Second Half For 77-73 Win Over Duke

When I wrote the pregame notes for this contest earlier today, I alluded to the fact Notre Dame’s success was in question because of a few close games, and having to rally late to get a few wins. I don’t see a questionable team, I see a determined team, and it happened again tonight.

The No. 8 Irish (20-2, 8-1 ACC) looked to be on the ropes in the second half as Duke looked like it would pull away as it went up 10. But as has been the case all year, Notre Dame wasn’t going to lay down for Coach Krzyzewski’s 1,001st win. They in fact made sure he had to wait another game for it.

Jerian Grant hit a ridiculous -because I truly don’t know what else to call it-jumper after having the ball knocked away as the shot clock expired to ignite the Leprechaun Legion. Then found Steve Vasturia in the corner for an open three -his first made field goal of the game- as the Irish finished on a 22-8 run to beat the No. 4 Blue Devils (17-3, 4-3) for the second consecutive time.

The Irish seemed to have no answer for Jahlil Okafor, who had his way underneath, leading the Blue Devils with 22 points and 17 rebounds. But down the stretch, Okafor couldn’t hit from the free-throw line, going 2-for-7, which turned out to be costly misses.

The Irish got great games from several players, as they once again had four players in double-figures. Bonzie Colson played a spectacular game off the bench, scoring only eight points while drawing the tough assignment of guarding the much taller Okafor.

But in the end, this was the Grant show. Watching him this season, you can’t help but think he feels responsible for last season’s woes after being ruled out due to academics. He just seems determined to will them to victory. He hit a three from the shamrock for no other reason than he was feeling it. For the second straight game, he blocked a shot to essentially end the game.

I won’t deny Okafor is a supreme talent for the Blue Devils. But tonight, when it was time for the stars to shine? It was Grant who lit up Purcell Pavillion.

The Irish travel to Pittsburgh on Saturday to play the Panthers at 12:00 p.m. ET.