The University of Notre Dame is poised to launch its 2026‑27 men’s basketball season with a marquee matchup against Villanova University in Rome, Italy, marking the first time the Fighting Irish open a campaign on foreign soil.
A Game for a Cause
Before the overseas trip, Notre Dame will host a preseason charity exhibition against the University of Dayton on Saturday, Oct. 17 at UD Arena. The contest will benefit Jay’s Light, a mental‑health and suicide‑prevention initiative founded by Dayton head coach Anthony Grant and his wife, Chris Grant, in memory of their daughter Jay, who died in 2022 at age 20 after a battle with mental illness.
Honoring a Young Advocate
Jay’s Light was created to continue the Grants’ daughter’s mission of destigmatizing mental illness and encouraging open conversation about mental health. The initiative seeks to raise awareness and improve access to resources for those struggling with similar challenges.
Notre Dame head coach Micah Shrewsberry expressed honor in partnering with the Dayton program for the event, noting that the collaboration aligns with the university’s commitment to community outreach and social responsibility.
A Milestone Meeting
The exhibition game will mark the first meeting between Notre Dame and Dayton since the 1994‑95 season, adding a historic layer to the charity showcase. Organizers have promised a series of community‑focused activities surrounding the contest, aimed at expanding mental‑health resources for students and fans alike.
Looking Ahead
While details of the fall programming remain under development, both institutions have indicated that the partnership could serve as a model for future athletic‑driven philanthropy. Additional events and programming surrounding the game will be announced in the coming months.