At a Glance
- Notre Dame coach Micah Shrewsberry apologized after charging at referee post-game.
- ACC issued a public reprimand for unsportsmanlike conduct.
- The incident followed a 72-71 loss to Cal after a controversial four-point play.
- Why it matters: It highlights the repercussions of a coach’s on-court misconduct and the ACC’s disciplinary response.
Notre Dame’s loss to Cal ended 72-71 after a disputed four-point play that left the Fighting Irish furious. The final seconds saw the Irish foul Cal’s Dai Dai Ames, who still made the free throw that kept the Bears ahead. Shrewsberry’s brief charge toward referee Adam Flore, who had already left the floor, sparked the controversy.
The Play That Sparked the Outburst
The sequence began with Notre Dame up by three. Logan Imes was called for a foul on Ames, who attempted a game-tying 3-pointer. Officials initially ruled the shot good, then reversed the call, and finally reinstated the 3-point, resulting in a one-point lead for Cal.
- Notre Dame led 72-70 before the foul.
- Ames made the 3-pointer and a free throw, giving Cal a 72-71 advantage.
- Shrewsberry’s charge followed immediately after the play.
Shrewsberry’s Apology and ACC Reprimand
Micah Shrewsberry stated:
> “I want to apologize for what took place immediately after the Cal game last night. My actions were inappropriate and not symbolic of the leader I strive to be and what Notre Dame expects of its coaches and educators. I will learn from this lack of judgement and be better in the future.”
He also apologized to his team, Notre Dame leadership, the ACC, and Cal coach Mark Madsen, saying his actions were unacceptable.
The ACC described the incident as an aggressive confrontation with the referee and labeled the behavior as unsportsmanlike and tarnishing the on-court play between the institutions.
Reactions from Cal and Notre Dame
Mark Madsen said:
> “Tremendous respect for Coach Shrewsberry and the entire Notre Dame program. It’s emotional for all of us. In the handshake line, it was nothing but class, class act. … We’ve had some battles for them. A lot of respect for Notre Dame.”
Shrewsberry will meet reporters in a scheduled ACC teleconference on Monday, and Notre Dame’s next game is a home match against Clemson on Jan. 10.
Key Takeaways
- Shrewsberry’s charge led to an ACC public reprimand.
- The incident followed a controversial four-point play that decided a 72-71 game.
- Notre Dame will face Clemson next; the coach remains under scrutiny.
The episode underscores the importance of coach conduct and the ACC’s willingness to enforce disciplinary measures for on-court incidents.
