The Elon University men’s basketball team captured a historic victory by beating Notre Dame 84-77 on Nov. 22 for the program’s first Power Four win since 2012. Sophomore Nick Dorn led the offensive effort with 24 points, and junior TK Simpkins also contributed with 17 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists.
It was a close game throughout that saw the Phoenix and Fight Irish trade leads back and forth until Elon pulled away in the final two minutes. Elon was aided by lights-out shooting; they shot a season-high 57.1% from the field and made 46.7% of their 3-pointers.
It was a monumental victory for the men’s basketball program as it was their first ever win over Notre Dame and their first win over an Atlantic Coast Conference opponent since 2005. The win was also significant for head coach Billy Taylor, as it was his biggest win so far in his time at Elon. It was also his first win over his alma mater after playing and coaching at Notre Dame in the 1990s.
Elon moves to 3-2 on the season. With a close fight against the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill and this statement win over the Irish, Elon is off to a red-hot start as they prepare to play in the Cathedral Classic Invitational on Nov. 29.