ACC basketball: Power Rankings heading into Christmas

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – DECEMBER 16: Bonzie Colson /

6. Louisville 8-2 (Last week 7)

After a pair of wins this week, the Cardinals are now riding a four-game winning streak. The first came on Monday in a 102-59 win over Bryant in which the team scored 51 in each half. Deng Adel, Quentin Snider, and Anas Mahmoud each scored 17 in the game.

The one that meant a little more came on Saturday against local foe Memphis. After a tied game at halftime, Louisville broke out a 17-4 run in the second half to take an insurmountable lead. Snider continued his good run with 19 points and five assists, while VJ King broke out of a little rut, scoring 17 points on an efficient 6/9 shooting.

The Cardinals have a couple of home games this week, including a return game against Grand Canyon.

5. Notre Dame 8-3 (Last week 4)

If it wasn’t for the comeback win over Wichita State, the Fighting Irish would be getting, even more, criticism when it comes to how good they really are. Losing to Ball State was bad, now it’s Indiana in the Crossroads Classic.

To be clear, the Hoosiers are a good team, and the defeat itself isn’t the problem. It’s the way the team is losing that’s worrisome. Bonzie Colson and Matt Farrell combined for 44 points, but on 14/33 shooting. Temple Gibbs chipped in 17, but the rest of the team only had three field goals combined. Rex Pflueger continues to struggle, going 1/8 from the field.

For Notre Dame to be a final four contender, other players will have to consistently contribute, otherwise, this team is ripe for a first-round upset.