Get ready for a thrilling showdown as Notre Dame and Butler clash on Friday night, but here's the twist: this isn't just any game—it’s a battle of two teams poised to redefine their seasons. At 7 p.m., Notre Dame basketball returns to the court for an exhibition game against the Butler Bulldogs, marking the first of two preseason contests for the Irish. The second game will see them host another Big East rival, DePaul, in South Bend next week. But here's where it gets controversial: can this Notre Dame squad live up to the soaring expectations in South Bend?
As Notre Dame enters the pivotal third year under Coach Micah Shrewsberry, optimism is buzzing in South Bend. Leading the charge is junior guard Markus Burton, a Mishawaka native who could be on the brink of a career-defining season. His resume is already impressive: surpassing 1,000 career points and averaging over 17 points per game in each of his first two seasons. Burton’s recent selection to the 2025-26 Preseason All-ACC First Team only adds to the hype. And this is the part most people miss: while Burton’s stardom is undeniable, it’s the supporting cast that could make or break their season.
Burton is joined in the backcourt by junior Braeden Shrewsberry, who has consistently averaged double-digit points in his first two seasons. The duo is bolstered by one of Notre Dame’s highest-ranked recruits, five-star Jalen Haralson, ranked 19th in the class of 2025 by ESPN. Haralson headlines a loaded freshman class that includes four-star recruits Brady Koehler, Ryder Frost, and Tommy Ahneman, earning the Irish the ninth-ranked recruiting class in the nation. But the real question is: can these newcomers seamlessly integrate into the team’s chemistry?
Adding to the roster is Northern Arizona transfer Carson Towt, a fifth-year senior who led the nation in rebounding (12.4 per game) last season. Towt’s front-court physicality pairs well with 6-foot-10 senior forward Kebba Njie, who followed Coach Shrewsberry from Penn State. Sophomores Sir Mohammed, Garrett Sundra, and Cole Certa, who gained valuable experience as freshmen, are also expected to make a bigger impact this season. While the starting lineup remains a mystery, Friday’s game will offer a glimpse into who can step up under pressure. Despite the optimism, several unanswered questions linger, leaving fans eager for answers.
On the other side, the Butler Bulldogs are entering the fourth year of Coach Thad Matta’s second stint, and the stakes are higher than ever. After a College Basketball Crown appearance last April, Butler aims to build momentum despite missing the NCAA Tournament in Matta’s first three seasons. But here’s the bold take: could this be the year Butler finally breaks through?
Butler’s roster has been overhauled with ESPN’s 25th-ranked recruiting class and five key transfers. The 2025 class features four-star recruits Jack McCaffery, son of Iowa’s legendary coach Fran McCaffery, and Indianapolis standout Azavier “Stink” Robinson. Leading the transfer class is Gonzaga’s Michael Ajayi, alongside Yohan Traore, a well-traveled player now on his fourth team in as many years, most recently from SMU. Other transfers include Drayton Jones (South Carolina State), Jalen Jackson (Purdue Fort Wayne), and Yame Butler (Drexel).
Returning for the Bulldogs are 6-foot-4 junior Finley Bizjack, who averaged 10.3 points per game last season, and 6-foot-6 sophomore Jamie Kaiser Jr. Kaiser made waves at Maryland as a freshman before transferring to Butler and redshirting last year due to an ankle injury. With the Big East field wide open this season, Butler could emerge as a surprise contender for an NCAA Tournament bid. But the real debate is: does Butler have what it takes to compete in a conference known for its toughness?
While the exhibition game won’t be streamed or broadcast, fans can tune in to WSBT radio with Conor Clingen on air. Tickets are available online for those eager to witness this early-season matchup. As both teams gear up for what could be defining seasons, one thing is clear: Friday night’s game is just the beginning of a journey filled with promise, uncertainty, and plenty of room for debate. What’s your take? Can Notre Dame meet the hype, or will Butler emerge as the dark horse? Let us know in the comments!
