Notre Dame took control early, using sharp perimeter movement and quick interior passing to build a steady first-quarter lead. The Chippewas worked to slow the tempo, occasionally finding success with mid-range jumpers and off-ball screens, but the Irish pressure defense forced rushed possessions and limited clean looks.
By halftime, Notre Dame’s depth became increasingly evident. Rotational players provided scoring bursts and defensive stops, allowing the Irish to maintain a brisk pace even when Central Michigan attempted to counter with zone adjustments. A late second-quarter scoring run pushed the Notre Dame lead into double digits.
Central Michigan regrouped in the third period, tightening their rebounding and generating a handful of transition chances. While the Chippewas showed resilience, Notre Dame consistently answered with disciplined shot selection and strong guard play, preventing any major momentum shifts.
In the final quarter, the Fighting Irish closed out the game with controlled pace and efficient ball distribution. Central Michigan continued to battle, but Notre Dame’s balanced scoring and defensive pressure secured a convincing home victory in front of an energized South Bend crowd.
