Tommy Ahneman, a sophomore power forward for the University of Notre Dame, is back on the court after a season lost to his second knee surgery. The setback kept him out of competition, but it also gave him time to reflect on his love for the game and the lessons he learned while watching his teammates from the bench.
A Season of Observation
During his rehabilitation, Ahneman stayed connected with the program by attending practices, studying game film, and engaging in conversations with coaches and teammates. He said the experience sharpened his understanding of the team's dynamics and highlighted the depth of talent ahead of him on the depth chart.
Before the injury, Ahneman had posted impressive high school numbers — averaging 16.3 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.7 blocks per game. Those statistics underscored his potential as a versatile big man, a skill set he is now eager to bring back to the collegiate level.
Coach’s Praise and a New Opportunity
Head coach Micah Shrewsberry has publicly acknowledged Ahneman’s progress, noting the player’s work ethic and the positive impact he is having in practice. With graduate transfer Logan Duncomb slated to start at power forward, Ahneman sees an opening to become the team’s second big man, a role that could give him more minutes and a larger offensive footprint.
Ahneman’s training regimen has been relentless. He has focused on rebuilding his strength, improving his conditioning, and refining his shooting touch. The combination of physical recovery and skill development has kept him motivated and confident that he can contribute meaningfully when the season begins.
Beyond the personal goals, Ahneman emphasizes the importance of team chemistry. He hopes his experience and perspective can help younger players navigate the rigors of college basketball while also learning from the veterans who have already made their mark.