Akron women’s basketball team is set to face off against No. 13 Notre Dame in a highly anticipated game on November 12 at 7 p.m. This marks only the second meeting between the two teams, with Notre Dame winning their first matchup back in 2011. The game will be broadcasted on the ACC Network Extra and can also be viewed on the Akron athletics website.
Notre Dame comes into the game with a strong record of 2-0. Recently, they dominated Chicago State with a staggering 116-58 victory. Junior Hannah Hidalgo is leading the Fighting Irish with an impressive average of 29.5 points per game. She’s not just a scorer; she also contributes with 5.5 assists and 3.5 steals per game, showcasing her all-around skills. Other key players include Cassandre Prosper and Vanessa de Jesus, who also average double digits in scoring, indicating a well-rounded offense.
Statistically, Notre Dame ranks highly across various categories in the NCAA. They are first in winning percentage and scoring offense, with 107 points per game. Their efficiency is reflected in their shooting percentage, hitting over 53% from the field. This combination of scoring and defense has made them a formidable opponent early in the season.
As for Akron, they’re looking to bounce back after a tough start, losing their opening games against South Alabama and Robert Morris. In those matches, sophomore Ni’Rah Clark shone bright, scoring a career-high 22 points against Robert Morris. The Zips have shown promise, especially with several players hitting personal bests early in the season.
Looking back, Akron’s last encounter with Notre Dame in 2011 saw the Zips struggle against a potent Fighting Irish side led by Skylar Diggins. This time, Akron hopes to harness the lessons learned from past matches and come out stronger. The team is especially motivated, with a mix of experienced players and talented newcomers ready to make their mark.
While the Zips face an uphill battle against a ranked opponent, they have the potential to surprise fans. With players like Clark and freshman Monique Mitchell stepping up, the game promises to be an exciting matchup filled with chances for growth and showcasing talent. Let’s see how they rise to the challenge against a powerhouse like Notre Dame!
In a recent social media poll, fans expressed their excitement for this matchup, showing strong support for both teams. This highlights not just the rivalry but also the growing interest in women’s basketball. As teams evolve, community engagement through social media continues to play a significant role in generating excitement around games.
As the season progresses, both teams will aim to solidify their ranks and adapt to the competitive landscape of college basketball, where each game offers a chance for redemption and camaraderie.
