Notre Dame Basketball: Eron Gordon Narrows List to Top Three

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After Notre Dame rebounded from a tough 2014 season to a Sweet 16 appearance in one of their finest seasons, they caught the eye of a 2016 top recruit. Eron Gordon, whose older brothers Eric and Evan played at Indiana, has narrowed his list to Butler, Notre Dame and Arizona State–in no particular order.

Gordon, a top-60 prospect at guard by most of the recruiting services, hasn’t completely eliminated Indiana, but they’ve fallen behind a bit. The Purdue Boilermakers, who have also offered are in that same category. The 6-2 guard just finished up participating in the Adidas Gauntlet, a three-day event that features some of the top players in the country, and some of the top coaches that come to watch them.

It’s the final time coaches can get an in-person look at players until the July evaluation period. And considering the competition of the event, it’s a must see.

For Gordon, his interest in Butler is a given. His family lives near the campus, and he’s very aware of the tradition that the Bulldogs have built in recent years. So for him, there was no change in interest. Notre Dame, on the other hand, may already be seeing the benefits of success in the ACC.

"“They did intrigue me with their run this year,” Gordon said. “I’m getting to know their players. I like the way Coach Brey coaches. I got used to seeing them in the ACC. It’s fun watching them play."

When you beat the eventual National Champion twice in a season and take the team (Kentucky) that most had pegged as a favorite to the wire, you’re bound to turn some heads.

"“It’s a (player-friendly system). I see myself a lot like (Notre Dame guard) Demetrius Jackson. We’re different athletes, but we play a little bit similar.”"

After the showing Jackson made last season, another player like him would be more than welcome in South Bend. Arizona State remains in the mix as his brother Evan played there for two seasons before transferring to Indiana.

There is still plenty of time before Gordon has to make a decision. November is the earliest, but many top players wait until the spring to make an announcement.

More from Notre Dame Men's Basketball

The Fighting Irish being in the running for a player like Gordon speaks to the success of Mike Brey, but also to the advantage of being in the ACC. To continue to compete like they did last year, they’ll need more players like Gordon in the future.

Next: Irish running attack will help define team