Marquette University Athletics
Marquette Defense Clamps Down on Notre Dame
12/1/2003 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
MILWAUKEE, Wis. ?
The Marquette Golden Eagles took their first tough test of the season, and passed with flying colors, knocking off Notre Dame 71-58. Marquette (5-0) used a 41-26 halftime advantage to outlast Notre Dame (2-1). Marquette shot 49.0 percent from the field, and 61.5 percent from behind-the-arc, while holding Notre Dame to 31.1 percent (including 17.2 percent from the three-point line).
The Golden Eagles were paced by sophomore forward Steve Novak?s career-high 21 points, on 6-9 percent shooting (5-7 from behind-the-arc). Scott Merritt notched his third double-double of the season, with season highs in both points (18) and rebounds (12). Joining Merritt and Novak in double-figures was Travis Diener, who also dished out seven assists.
Notre Dame was led by Torin Francis, who scored 23 points, and grabbed nine rebounds. Torrian Jones (14 points) and Chris Thomas (11 points) also figured into the Irish offense. Notre Dame failed to get significant contributions beyond its starting five, as they combined for 55 of the team?s 58 points.
The Golden Eagles are back in action Friday night, December 5, as they host Grambling State at 8 p.m.
