Notre Dame 65 - 72 1Connecticut
Final
  for this game

Notre Dame looks to keep tournament hopes alive

Feb 28, 2009 - 11:09 AM Notre Dame (16-11) at No. 2 Connecticut (16-2) 2:00 p.m. EST

STORRS, Connecticut (Ticker) -- Notre Dame is running out of time to prove to the selection committee that it's one of the best 65 teams in the country.

The Fighting Irish will be looking to post a signature win when they take on No. 2 Connecticut on Saturday.

Notre Dame (16-11, 7-8 Big East) looked like a high seed in the NCAA Tournament when it started out 12-3, but a seven-game losing streak nearly dropped the team off the map.

Preseason Player of the Year Luke Harangody has been solid all season, averaging 24 points and 12.6 rebounds, but inconsistent play on the defensive end led to the Irish's downfall, as they allowed 85 points per game in the seven losses.

Notre Dame has closed some of those holes recently, allowing 68.4 points while winning four of their last five.

The Huskies (26-2, 14-2) are poised to reclaim the top ranking in the nation after a one-week absence with a win over the Irish.

UConn lost the top spot after losing to Pittsburgh on February 16 but has rebounded with wins over South Florida and Marquette.

A win over Notre Dame would clinch at least a share of the Big East regular-season title.






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