Notre Dame, the Fighting Irish, is one of the most well-known college sports teams in the United States. From football to basketball and even hockey, they’ve had plenty of success over the years. But one of the questions that many people have is, has Notre Dame ever won a national championship in basketball? In this article, we’ll explore that question and the history of the Notre Dame basketball program to answer it.
Notre Dame Basketball History
Notre Dame has fielded a men’s basketball team since 1897 and a women’s basketball team since 1973. The men’s team has had some success over the years, making the NCAA Tournament 24 times, including a Final Four appearance in 1978. The women’s team has been even more successful, making the NCAA Tournament 28 times, including two Final Four appearances in 1997 and 2018.
Notre Dame’s Best Seasons
Notre Dame has had a handful of standout seasons over the years, with several teams that have come close to winning a national championship. In 1977-78, the Fighting Irish men’s team finished the regular season with a 28-3 record and made it to the Final Four, where they lost to eventual champion Kentucky. In 2001-02, the men’s team went 27-6 and made it to the Sweet Sixteen, where they lost to eventual champion Maryland.
Notre Dame’s National Championship Appearances
Notre Dame has made three appearances in the NCAA Men’s Basketball National Championship game. The first came in 1978, when the Fighting Irish lost to Kentucky. The second came in 1987, when Notre Dame lost to Indiana. The third appearance came in 2015, when the Fighting Irish lost to Duke.
Notre Dame’s National Championship Wins
Despite making three appearances in the national championship game, Notre Dame has never won a national championship in basketball. The closest they have come is the 1987 season, when they lost to Indiana in the title game.
Notre Dame’s Biggest Rivalries
Throughout their history, Notre Dame has had several intense rivalries with other college basketball programs. Perhaps their biggest rivalry is with the University of Connecticut, which dates back to the early 1990s. The two teams have played each other over 80 times, with UConn holding a slight advantage in the series. The Fighting Irish also have intense rivalries with Providence, Boston College, and Georgetown.
Notre Dame’s Most Famous Players
Notre Dame has had some very talented players over the years, who have gone on to have successful professional careers. Some of the most famous players to suit up for the Fighting Irish include:
- Tim Abromaitis (2008-12)
- Adrian Dantley (1974-76)
- Pat Garrity (1994-98)
- Monty Williams (1989-94)
- Kermit Washington (1970-73)
Notre Dame’s Coaches
Notre Dame has had a long list of head coaches over the years, many of whom have had success with the program. Some of the most notable coaches include:
- Johnny Dee (1955-60)
- Digger Phelps (1971-91)
- John MacLeod (1991-99)
- Muffet McGraw (1987-present)
- Mike Brey (2000-present)
Conclusion
In conclusion, Notre Dame has never won a national championship in basketball, despite making three appearances in the title game. They have, however, had some very successful seasons and have had some very talented players and coaches. Despite not winning a national title, Notre Dame basketball is still a very successful program and continues to compete at a high level.