Controversial Finish Sees Cal Golden Bears Edge Notre Dame 72-71
The California Golden Bears defeated Notre Dame 72-71 in a dramatic finish marked by controversy. The late sequence featured a critical play involving Dai Dai Ames' three-pointer. Ames was fouled on the shot, awarding him a free throw for a potential four-point play. This call was reviewed twice before Ames was sent to the line.
Following the free throw, Notre Dame held the final possession but missed the shot, securing the win for Cal.
After the final buzzer, Notre Dame head coach Micah Shrewsberry and guard Cole Certa appeared to rush an official, who then walked off the court amid the tension.
Cole Certa has been seeing increased playing time in Notre Dame's rotation this season, averaging 20.3 minutes, 9.0 points, and 1.4 rebounds per game, while shooting 37.9% from the field.
Micah Shrewsberry has served as Notre Dame's head coach since the 2023-24 season. Over parts of three seasons, his record stands at 38-43 with no NCAA Tournament bids yet. Following this loss, Notre Dame's overall record dropped to 10-5, with a 1-1 record in conference play.
