Imagine a basketball game where one player single-handedly ignites a scoring frenzy, sinking shot after shot from beyond the arc, leaving the opposition scrambling to keep up. That's exactly what happened when Braeden Shrewsberry took the court for Notre Dame against Evansville on December 13, 2025. In a dazzling display of precision and skill, Shrewsberry notched a career-best 28 points, including an astonishing eight 3-pointers, propelling the Fighting Irish to a commanding 82-58 victory. But here's where it gets even more impressive: Shrewsberry wasn't just hot—he was on fire from the opening tip, sinking three 3-pointers and scoring 11 points in the game's first eight minutes. Evansville briefly held a 12-10 lead, but Shrewsberry quickly silenced the Purple Aces with back-to-back 3-pointers, part of a 19-12 run that gave Notre Dame control. And this is the part most people miss: it wasn't just Shrewsberry's heroics; Sir Mohammed also chipped in with a crucial 3-pointer during that stretch, showcasing the team's depth. By halftime, Shrewsberry had already racked up 17 points, and Notre Dame led 41-29.
The second half saw Evansville mount a brief comeback, with Connor Turnbull scoring 10 straight points to narrow the gap to 52-49. But Notre Dame responded with a barrage of 3-pointers from Shrewsberry, Garrett Sundra, Logan Imes, and Mohammed, quickly extending their lead to 67-51 with eight minutes remaining. Shrewsberry's final stat line was nothing short of remarkable: 8-of-10 from three-point range and 9-of-12 overall. Mohammed also shone with a career-high 21 points, while Jalen Haralson added 10 for the Fighting Irish (9-3). For Evansville (4-7), Turnbull led the way with 17 points, nine rebounds, and four blocks, while Joshua Hughes contributed 14 points.
But here's the controversial part: Notre Dame achieved this dominant win without their scoring leader, Markus Burton, who was sidelined following ankle surgery. Does this highlight the team's resilience, or does it raise questions about Evansville's ability to capitalize on a weakened opponent? The game also carried emotional weight, as it marked the 48th anniversary of a tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of 29 people, including members of the Evansville men’s basketball team.
Looking ahead, Evansville opens Missouri Valley Conference play at home against Belmont on Tuesday, while Notre Dame, now a perfect 7-0 at home, hosts Purdue Fort Wayne on December 21.
What do you think? Was Shrewsberry's performance a fluke, or is he poised for a breakout season? And how do you think Notre Dame will fare without Burton for the rest of the season? Let us know in the comments below!
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