Notre Dame Basketball: Irish powered by experienced roster

Mar 27, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish head coach Mike Brey reacts during the first half against the North Carolina Tar Heels in the championship game in the East regional of the NCAA Tournament at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 13, 2015; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish guard Rex Pflueger (0) passes to forward Martinas Geben (23) as Loyola Ramblers guard Donte Ingram (0) defends in the second half at the Purcell Pavilion. Notre Dame won 81-61. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Lack of size in Notre Dame’s front court…again?

This is normally a concern for the Irish, at least for the last few years. Zach Auguste is not returning to South Bend, so it’s up to Bonzie Colson, Martinas Geben, Elijah Burns and Austin Torres in the front court.

The problem: Geben is the only rotation player on the team that is taller than 6’9″.

Colson stands at just 6’5″, although he plays way bigger than his size. Geben and Torres have very little experience at the college level, and Burns and freshman John Mooney haven’t played a single game at Notre Dame.

The Irish will likely take advantage of the versatility that they possess though. V.J. Beachem could slide down to the four position, opening up the entire floor because of his shooting ability. They could also opt to put Steve Vasturia in a similar position, as he is also a veteran player that is consistent enough beyond the arc.

But against teams like Duke, North Carolina, Virginia, Louisville and Syracuse, will Notre Dame be able to hold their own against powerful front lines?

It’s unlikely. Colson is a great rebounder because of his motor and passion, and he can also finish around the rim with ease. However, savvy veteran big men will be able to take advantage of his lack of size and athleticism.

Notre Dame better hope that they are given the proper match-ups when March rolls around. They used to have Demetrius Jackson and Jerian Grant to bail them out of their front court troubles. But now, if they are matched up with an above-average front line in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, the Irish won’t have the best chance to advance.

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