On October 17, the University of Dayton will host the Notre Dame men’s basketball team for an exhibition matchup that marks the first meeting between the programs since 1995. The game will take place in the historic University of Dayton Arena, a venue that has witnessed several memorable NCAA Tournament moments for the Fighting Irish.
A Rivalry Steeped in History
The series between the two schools dates back decades, with Notre Dame holding a 28‑12 edge in all‑time meetings. Legendary Notre Dame forward Austin Carr once poured in a record 61 points at this very arena during a 1970 tournament game, a feat that still resonates among college basketball fans.
Beyond the competition, the contest is part of Dayton’s annual Mental Health Awareness initiative, known as Jay’s Light. The charity was founded by Dayton head coach Anthony Grant and his wife Chris in memory of their daughter Jay, who passed away in 2022 after a battle with mental illness.
Both squads are expected to feature significant roster turnover, with Notre Dame potentially fielding as many as ten new players. The exhibition also serves as a prelude to Notre Dame’s upcoming road test at DePaul later in October, setting the stage for a busy start to the regular season.
Fans can anticipate a lively atmosphere as the Flyers look to extend their home‑court advantage while the Irish aim to showcase their evolving lineup. The game promises to blend competitive spirit with a cause that resonates far beyond the hardwood.