SOUTH BEND, Ind. — No. 2 Notre Dame (22-2, 13-0) hosts No. 13 Duke (20-5, 11-2) on Monday night in a battle of two of the top three teams in the ACC. The game will celebrate National Girls and Women in Sports Day and is presented by Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Duke is known as a defense-first squad, and this year is no exception. The Blue Devils are one of two ACC teams holding opponents under 60 percent from the floor (North Carolina), and Duke is allowing just 31.7 rebounds per game. Notably, Notre Dame leads the conference with 44.0 total rebounds and 31.6 defensive rebounds per game. Unsurprisingly, the Irish lead the league with a 10.6 rebounding margin, and Duke is second at 7.5.
The Blue Devils have had the same five starters for all 25 games this season and often go as freshman Toby Fournier does. The Canadian product leads the team with 13.5 points per game and 29 total blocks. She is also averaging 5.3 boards per game, second on the team behind Jadyn Donovan (6.8). Ashlon Jackson is a big threat from beyond the arc for Duke, averaging 2.5 3FGM per game and shooting 42.5 percent from deep this season.
Notre Dame is coming off its third consecutive victory of at least 30 points. On Thursday, the Irish beat Pitt for the 11th consecutive time, this time by a score of 88-57. Olivia Miles had 28 points and knocked down eight buckets from the beyond the arc, tying the Notre Dame single-game 3-pointer record set in 1998 by Shelia McMillen. Sonia Citron also exploded from deep, starting 4-4 from 3-point range and finishing the game 8-9 from the floor with 22 points and 10 rebounds, her third double-double of the year.
While she had an off night at Pitt, Hannah Hidalgo continues to be the best two-way player in the nation, ranking second in points per game (25.2) and second in steals per game (4.1). She notched a season-high 7 steals against the Panthers and posted her 57th game with 10+ points in as many tries.
Notre Dame is 18-4 all-time against Duke and 6-1 at home. Monday’s game will air on ESPN at 6 p.m. Beth Mowins and Debbie Antonelli will be on the call, and the game is sold out.
Get ready, Fightin’ Irish fans! The No. 1 ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish are set to take on the No. 11 ranked Duke Blue Devils in an epic Monday night showdown on ESPN.
The Fighting Irish have been dominating the competition this season, with an impressive record and a strong showing in conference play. Led by their talented roster and experienced coaching staff, Notre Dame is ready to defend their home court and show why they are the top team in the nation.
But they will be facing a tough challenge in the Blue Devils, who have been playing at a high level and are hungry for a big win against a top-ranked opponent. With their talented lineup and strong defense, Duke will be looking to pull off the upset and make a statement in this highly anticipated matchup.
So mark your calendars and get ready to cheer on the Fighting Irish as they take on the Blue Devils in what is sure to be an exciting and intense game. Tune in to ESPN on Monday night to catch all the action and see which team comes out on top in this thrilling battle on the hardwood. Go Irish! #WeAreND #BeatDuke
The U.S. Treasury secretary left a straight and to the point message in the welcome book at Shannon Airport in Ireland on Thursday, simply leaving the Trump administration’s two-word motto.
The plane Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was traveling on from Kyiv, Ukraine, made a stop at the western Ireland airport to refuel.
While there, Bessent signed the welcome book, writing, “AMERICA FIRST!”
FOX Business White House correspondent Edward Lawrence snapped a picture of the page, and above Bessent’s entry was an entry from former Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signed the welcome book at Shannon Airport in Ireland, writing, “AMERICA FIRST!”(Edward Lawrence)
“To all our friends at Shannon – with gratitude for always making us feel at home away from home,” Blinken wrote, though the date of the entry was not visible in the photo.
President Donald Trump announced earlier this week that he was sending Bessent to meet with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Scott Bessent, founder and chief executive officer of Key Square Group LP, at an interview during the Republican National Convention (RNC) near the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, US, on Tuesday, July 16, 2024. Former President Donald Trump tapped JD Vance as his running mate, elevating to the Republican presidential ticket a venture capitalist-turned-senator whose embrace of populist politics garnered national attention and made him a rising star in the party.(Vincent Alban/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
“This War MUST and WILL END SOON — Too much Death and Destruction. The U.S. has spent BILLIONS of Dollars Globally, with little to show,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Bessent was expected to speak with the Ukrainian president about sanctions, rare Earth minerals and where U.S. funding has gone.
Vice President JD Vance was also meeting with Zelenskyy this week, and both meetings were to take place before U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg travels to Ukraine on Feb. 20.
Trump tasked Kellogg with hashing out a peace deal with Ukraine and Russia to bring the three-year-long war to an end. Last week Kellogg met with Ukrainian delegates at the State Department.
Fox News Digital’s Morgan Phillips contributed to this report.
Greg Wehner is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital.
Story tips and ideas can be sent to Greg.Wehner@Fox.com and on Twitter @GregWehner.
Scott Bessent, the former Treasury Secretary, recently left a powerful two-word message in an Irish airport’s welcome book that has caught the attention of many. His simple yet impactful words read: “Stay strong.”
This message has resonated with travelers passing through the airport, reminding them to persevere in the face of challenges and uncertainties. It serves as a reminder to always remain resilient and determined, no matter what obstacles may come our way.
Bessent’s message serves as a powerful reminder to us all to stay strong, stay positive, and keep pushing forward, no matter the circumstances. It is a message that is sure to inspire and uplift anyone who comes across it in the airport’s welcome book.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — No. 3 Notre Dame (18-2, 9-0) will play its third road contest in as many games on Sunday, closing out the swing away from Purcell Pavilion with ACC rival Louisville (15-6, 8-2). Notre Dame is seeking a 10-0 start in ACC play for the first time since the team went undefeated in conference play in 2015-16, and the last ACC team to do so was NC State in 2021-22 before Notre Dame beat the Wolfpack.
The Irish are coming off of a 77-61 victory at Virginia Tech on Thursday night. All-American Hannah Hidalgo dropped 30 points for the third time this season and eighth time in her career, passing Jewell Loyd for second all-time in 30-point games. She trails only Irish legend Arike Ogunbowale (11).
Against the Hokies, Liza Karlen had her best ACC game to date. She went 5-5 from the floor and knocked down two 3-pointers, finishing with 12 points and a win over her former head coach Megan Duffy, who is now in Blacksburg.
Turning to this weekend, the Irish and the Cardinals have become one of the nation’s top women’s basketball rivalries. Louisville has been a dangerous but hot and cold team this year.
Junior forward Nyla Harris has been Louisville’s most consistent shooter, leading the team with a 60.8 field goal percentage and a 64.9 mark in ACC play. Harris, Tajianna Roberts and Jayda Curry are all averaging double-figure points, and Roberts leads the group with 13.7. The freshman was the No. 25 recruit in the country in the 2024 class and played her high school basketball at IMG Academy in Florida.
Irish veterans Sonia Citron, Olivia Miles and Maddy Westbeld have had great success recently against Louisville, as Notre Dame has won four of the last six meetings. In eight career games against the Cardinals, Citron has averaged 15.6 points and 4.8 rebounds per contest. The last meeting came in the quarterfinals of last year’s ACC Tournament, and Citron had 26 points and 10 made free throws.
Notre Dame is 20-14 all-time against Louisville and 6-6 at their place. Sunday’s game starts at noon and will be on ESPN2. Ryan Ruocco, Rebecca Lobo and Holly Rowe will be on the call.
Get ready, Fighting Irish fans! No. 3 Notre Dame is set to take on Louisville in a Sunday matinee showdown, airing live on ESPN2.
The Fighting Irish have been on fire this season, boasting an impressive record and showing off their strong offensive and defensive skills. Led by their talented roster of players, Notre Dame is sure to put on a show for fans as they face off against Louisville.
With both teams hungry for a win, this game is sure to be intense and action-packed. So be sure to tune in to ESPN2 on Sunday to catch all the excitement as No. 3 Notre Dame takes on Louisville in what is sure to be a thrilling matchup. Go Fighting Irish!
CORAL GABLES, Fla. – Don’t look now but the Fighting Irish (10-10, 4-5) are back to .500 on the season after winning three of its last four games, and with a win against Miami on Saturday, they can climb back to .500 in league play. Notre Dame’s current 4-5 league record puts them in ninth place heading into the weekend.
A victory on Saturday would also give the Irish their first back-to-back ACC road wins since the 2021-22 season. It would also mark Micah Shrewsberry’s first win against the Hurricanes as head coach.
It was around this time last year in which the Irish started to play their best basketball, rattling off five wins in six games in February of 2024. Coach Shrews says this season has been disjointed – learning to play without Burton, then inserting him back in 39 days later. The team is now settling in and looking to play their best basketball with three wins in a row.
The task at hand is a Florida road swing starting with Miami on Saturday, Feb. 1. That match will tip off at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN2.
The Irish trail the overall series against the Hurricanes, 13-17, with a 6-8 mark inside the Watsco Center. ND and Miami played twice last season: a 49-62 loss in Coral Gables and a 61-73 loss in South Bend. The Irish player who averaged the most points in those two contests is J.R. Konieczny at 13.5 ppg.
BURTON EMPHATICALLY BACK
After 39 days away rehabbing his knee injury, Burton has returned bigger and better than ever. The sophomore has fired off five consecutive games with 20 or more points, which hasn’t been done by an Irish player since Ben Hansbrough in February of 2011. Now before you ask, the last ND player with a longer streak was Luke Harangody with 14 straight in 2008-09.
Burton averaged a red-hot 22.3 ppg in January, which ranked second in the ACC only to Duke’s Cooper Flagg (25.4). That average ranked fourth amongst all power conference players.
The sophomore has recorded incredible stretches during this five-game stint and we’ll start with the most recent.
He poured in 18 of his 26 points in the second half against Georgia Tech, including back-to-back triples with less than 2:30 on the clock.
He scored the first nine points at Virginia before finishing with a team best 21. Prior, Burton dropped a first-half career high 22 points at Syracuse, finishing with 28.
CHASING ACHIEVEMENTS
Burton is currently averaging 20.4 ppg despite the two-point early-injury exit tarnishing that average. He’s also averaging a team best 3.3 apg.
If Burton can keep this up, he’ll join David Rivers as the only Irish players to average 20+ points and 3+ assists in a season. He would be just the 15th ACC player since 1996.
However, Burton isn’t the only one who can cement his name in the Irish record books this season. Grad transfer Matt Allocco owns a 3.69 assist-to-turnover ratio – the highest in program history for a season was 3.16 by Martin Inglesby back in 2000-01.
Allocco is also converting a career high 48.6 percent from deep. That number currently ranks second all-time for a season. The top spot belongs to Joe Fredrick who shot 52.1 percent in 1988-89.
THREE BALL HEATING UP
The Irish have great guard play and it’s showing with how well the three ball is goind down. In ACC play, Notre Dame is converting 41.3 percent from beyond the arc, which leads all league schools.
Overall on the year, the Irish have drained 37.9 percent from deep which ranks 25th in the country.
The Irish have connected on double-digit treys three times now over the past five games. They sunk 14 at Duke (which tied their season high), 12 in the win at Virginia and 10 in the win over Georgia Tech.
Allocco, Shrewsberry and Burton have been leading the three barrage, but Burton specifically has stepped up his game. He went from 30.0 percent from three-point range last year to 43.3 percent this season. He’s tied his career high of four made triples three times over the last five games. He’s 8-for-11 over the last two games.
THE TAE-KOVER
Tae Davis has emerged as one of the top talents in the ACC and should be a candidate for Most Improved. He’s averaging a career best 15.8 ppg, up from last year’s 9.2 ppg. His scoring average ranks 10th amongst ACC players. The Indy native is also shooting a career best 48.9 percent, which ranks 7th in the league.
Where is he getting it done? Well, the junior has been highly proficient around the rim where he’s 71-of-107 (.664).
He’s also improved from the free-throw line over the course of the season. He’s 24 for his last 29, raising his FT% to a career best 77.0 percent. Tae ranks fourth in the league in FT attempts and eighth in makes.
EVOLVING
When Burton was recovering, other Irish had to step up and evolve. We’ve already mentioned Tae Davis’ emergence but we’ve also seen Braeden Shrewsberry’s evolution.
The sophomore guard is averaging 14.8 ppg, up from last year’s 10.2. He’s shooting 43.6 percent, which is up from last year’s 39.8.
He’s connecting on 2.8 threes per game this season, with a .367 clip from beyond the arc. Shrewsberry’s sweet spot has been the corner three where he’s 14-31 (.452), which is 9.7 percent above the D1 average.
Shrewsberry boasts higher three ball numbers in ACC play where he ranks third in threes/game at 3.0 and third in three-point percentage at 41.5.
However, it’s important to point out that he’s added to his overall arsenal with a dangerous floater that keeps defenders guessing. He’s shooting 50.0 percent from midrange twos.
He’s 54.8 percent overall from two-point range and converting 60.0 percent over the last five games.
VET LEADER
When Coach Shrews added grad transfer Matt Allocco to the roster he got two things – a talented guard with NCAA Tournament experience and a leader by every definition of the word. Coach Shrews hoped that his young core of players would pick up those characteristics and then be leaders to the next group coming in.
This season, Allocco is averaging 9.8 ppg on 47.1 percent shooting. He’s draining a career best 48.6 percent from three. As previously mentioned, Allocco is also on pace for the highest A/TO ratio in program history at 3.69.
Allocco also leads the team in defensive rebounds per game at 4.2 and leads in +/- at +91 on the year.
NOTRE NOTABLES
With 13 points in the win over BC on Jan. 13, Matt Allocco officially crossed over the 1,000 career point milestone. He currently sits at 1,027.
Allocco boasts a true shooting percentage of 68.8 over the last five games. According to CBB Analytics that ranks in the 99th percentile.
Kebba entered the year with just four double-digit scoring performances to his name. He’s posted two in the month of January, including his first career double-double at NC State.
Speaking of Kebba, the junior is averaging 2.8 offensive rebounds/game in ACC play, which ranks fourth in the league.
Burton is averaging 2.4 made threes per game in ACC play which ranks sixth.
Yes Sir! – The freshman guard impressed at #4 Duke, recording his first double-digit scoring performance with 11 points on 4-7 shooting, plus 2-4 from three.
Notre Dame continues to raise its KenPom Offense Adj. Efficiency. Over the last several games, it has risen from 56th to 38th with a rating of 116.5. Notre Dame’s overall KenPom rating sits at No. 80.
— ND —
Welcome to Miami, where the Notre Dame Fighting Irish are ready to take on the competition!
As the official athletics website of the Fighting Irish, we are thrilled to bring you all the latest news, updates, and highlights from our teams as they battle it out on the field, court, and ice.
From football to basketball, hockey to soccer, Notre Dame is a powerhouse in collegiate athletics and we are proud to showcase the talent and dedication of our student-athletes.
So grab your green and gold gear, join us in cheering on the Fighting Irish, and get ready for an exciting season ahead. Go Irish! #GoIrish #MiamiBound
Six Nations: Ireland v England, Saturday, 4.45pm, Aviva Stadium – Live on Virgin Media 1, ITV1
Can a first-round match be pivotal? The Guinness Six Nations may be a mini league, per se, but in reality it can be a glorified knock-out tournament. Akin to the start of an F1 Grand Prix, by close of business on the first Saturday three teams will have sped off to the first bend, with three more effectively stalled on the grid. There’s no momentum in that.
Nor is the Six Nations conducive to overtaking from the back of the grid. Only three times since 2000 has a team lost on the opening weekend and won the title. Suffice to say, when the full-time whistle sounds at the end of this truly intriguing opener, one of these teams will be out of the Grand Slam and a Triple Crown reckoning, while hopes of winning the Championship will be seriously imperilled.
The stakes seem even higher when you examine where these two sides are coming from and where they’re heading to next. For Ireland, a victory would be the ideal springboard for interim head coach Simon Easterby and his assistants in the absence of the inspirational Andy Farrell.
This would be all the truer if Sam Prendergast again delivers on his talent and temperament, and Ryan Baird vindicates his bold selection by Easterby.
Ireland would then have an eight-day turnaround before facing Scotland in Murrayfield with hopes of that history-breaking three-peat emboldened and their support base fully aboard. But Irish supporters have been spoilt. The bar is now so high. Alternatively, defeat could diminish interest.
What’s more, Easterby, this coaching ticket, a young captain and this team, could then be facing a buoyant Scottish side in a game for which tickets are apparently like gold dust.
Interim Head Coach Simon Easterby at the Ireland Rugby Captain’s Run in the Aviva Stadium. Photograph: Dan Sheridan/Inpho
Similarly, were England to win in advance of hosting the French next weekend then talk of winning the title might not seem so fanciful. By contrast another defeat, even another narrow one, would increase the heat on Steve Borthwick and induce some additional trepidation in advance of Antoine Dupont and co visiting next Saturday.
Ireland’s form has wavered from Grand Slam champions to mere champions, and especially last autumn. The lineout became a less reliable life source for the attack, which suffered from handling errors and imprecision.
À la Leinster, the multiphase attack is not as irresistible as before, and only one of Ireland’s 14 tries in the autumn emanated from outside the 22, with 12 of them starting from lineouts, penalties or scrums five metres out.
The problem about having one of the most consistent, possession-based styles of play under Joe Schmidt and Farrell is that teams are better equipped to counter that game, and this has uncanny echoes of the 2019 opener when the chariot derailed the then Irish Grand Slam champions, and it’s been a while since a team so readily absorbed Ireland’s attack quite like the Wallabies did last November.
Caelan Doris, Jack Conan and Tadhg Beirne arrive out for the Captain’s Run at the Aviva Stadium. Photograph: Ben Brady/Inpho
The return of Garry Ringrose should sharpen the attacking edge, although this will also hinge on work done with Easterby and Andrew Goodman in the Algarve.
With Felix Jones and his Springboks-infused blitz defence no longer on board, it will be fascinating to see if England’s defence hold back like the Wallabies did or push up quickly, so running the risk of Sam Prendergast taking the ball to the line and picking out the right pass in his daring, trademark style.
Ditto England’s approach to their task with the ball. Steve Borthwick has always been a percentage-based coach, who places a premium on kicking, as does the former Saracens and Leicester scrumhalf turned attack coach Richard Wigglesworth.
The selection of Freddie Steward is a nod to the law variations which have ensured a fairer aerial contest. But Marcus Smith is an inventive, quick-witted outhalf who has been given the controls, while the return of Alex Mitchell will add another dimension to their attacking game and the inclusion of the fleet-footed Cadan Murley seems like another signal of intent.
Freddie Steward at the England Rugby Captain’s Run in the Aviva Stadium, Dublin, on Friday. Photograph: Andrew Conan/Inpho
So too the eye-catching selection of three opensides in the backrow, Tom and Ben Curry either side of Ben Earl, whose footwork and acceleration hurt Ireland last year. It certainly looks as if Borthwick and co have hatched a plan to stymie Ireland’s recycling, high-tempo game, if sacrificing some of the physicality which bullied Ireland in the collisions last year, while still having some oomph in their 6-2 split for the endgame.
For their part, in selecting Baird, Easterby and co appear to have placed a premium on winning their own lineout ball and taking on the English throw.
At face value, a teatime Saturday kick-off for an Ireland-England Six Nations game looks ideal. But this is countered by the pricing of the tickets and the even more eye-watering resale value.
The IRFU have encouraged supporters to arrive early, with the Scotland-Italy game on big screens, to only move during breaks in play, and have hired DJ Mark McCabe to improve the prematch entertainment. Hopefully the crowd will raise a cheer.
“I don’t expect this place to be anything other than bouncing on Saturday,” said Easterby. “It is so exciting to have this first up. This fixture will always create that bit more interest and first up at home in a stadium that the players love playing in.
“When we play well and give the crowd that type of experience on the pitch they have bought into it and generated a great atmosphere. So, we have a responsibility as a team to ensure that we get the crowd onside and use that to our advantage.”
Can Ireland afford to lose to England?
Josh van der Flier at the Ireland Rugby Captain’s Run. Photograph: Ben Brady/Inpho
Losing Tadhg Furlong and Joe McCarthy removes about 15kg of heft from the tight head side of the scrum but the Irish defence looks stronger (five tries conceded in November as against England’s 15), Baird could prove an inspired pick and most Irish players are much more battle-honed than they were in November, notably Caelan Doris and Josh van der Flier.
Doris admitted on Friday that in mastering their detail they may have detracted from their focus on the essence of a rugby contest. It could well be a very tricky, taut, tight game but the memories of losing both last year’s meeting and the autumnal opener against New Zealand should focus Irish minds.
Ireland
Hugo Keenan (UCD/Leinster); Mack Hansen (Corinthians/Connacht), Garry Ringrose (UCD/Leinster), Bundee Aki (Galwegians/Connacht), James Lowe (Leinster); Sam Prendergast (Lansdowne/Leinster), Jamison Gibson-Park (Leinster); Andrew Porter (UCD/Leinster), Rónan Kelleher (Lansdowne/Leinster), Finlay Bealham (Corinthians/Connacht), James Ryan (UCD/Leinster), Tadhg Beirne (Lansdowne/Munster), Ryan Baird (Dublin University/Leinster), Josh van der Flier (UCD/Leinster), Caelan Doris (St Mary’s College/Leinster)(capt)
Replacements
Dan Sheehan (Lansdowne/Leinster), Cian Healy (Clontarf/Leinster), Thomas Clarkson (Dublin University/Leinster), Iain Henderson (Academy/Ulster), Jack Conan (Old Belvedere/Leinster), Conor Murray (Garryowen/Munster), Jack Crowley (Cork Constitution/Munster), Robbie Henshaw (Buccaneers/Leinster).
England
Freddie Steward (Leicester Tigers), Tommy Freeman (Northampton Saints), Ollie Lawrence (Bath Rugby), Henry Slade (Exeter Chiefs), Cadan Murley (Harlequins), Marcus Smith (Harlequins), Alex Mitchell (Northampton Saints), Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears), Luke Cowan-Dickie (Sale Sharks), Will Stuart (Bath Rugby), Maro Itoje (Saracens) (capt), George Martin (Leicester Tigers), Tom Curry (Sale Sharks), Ben Curry (Sale Sharks), Ben Earl (Saracens).
Replacements:
Theo Dan (Saracens), Fin Baxter (Harlequins), Joe Heyes (Leicester Tigers), Ollie Chessum (Leicester Tigers), Chandler Cunningham-South (Harlequins), Tom Willis (Saracens), Harry Randall (Bristol Bears), Fin Smith (Northampton Saints).
Referee: Ben O’Keeffe (NZ)
ARs: James Doleman (NZ) & Hollie Davidson (Sco)
TMO: Glenn Newman (NZ)
FPRO: Richard Kelly (NZ)
Overall head-to-head: Played 142. Ireland 53 wins, 8 draws, 81 England wins.
Last five meetings: 2024: England 23 Ireland 22; 2023: Ireland 29 England 10; 2023: Ireland 29 England 16; 2022: England 15 Ireland 32; Ireland 32 England 18.
The first game will be crucial in turbo-charged race for Grand Slam – The Irish Times
As the Six Nations tournament kicks off this weekend, all eyes are on the teams vying for the coveted Grand Slam title. With the competition heating up and each team looking to make their mark, the first game of the tournament will be crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the matches.
In a turbo-charged race for the Grand Slam, every point and every win will count. The Irish Times predicts that the first game will be a key indicator of which teams are in top form and ready to take on the challenge.
With Ireland, England, Wales, Scotland, France, and Italy all hungry for victory, the competition is sure to be fierce. Fans can expect thrilling matches, nail-biting finishes, and unexpected upsets as the teams battle it out on the field.
So buckle up, rugby fans, because the race for the Grand Slam is about to kick into high gear. The first game will set the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating tournament filled with excitement, drama, and plenty of surprises. Let the games begin!
The fourth edition of Brigit: Dublin city Celebrating Women returns this Friday. More than 100 thematic events will take place across the city, offering a celebration of women’s contributions to culture, society and history.
On Sunday from 3:30pm this year’s Brigit parade will commence at the top of Capel Street, with an eclectic procession featuring walkers, roller skaters, Brigits on bikes, dancers and more. More information here
Brigit 2025 Imbolc Fair
Meeting House Square, Monday 12-4.30pm
Taking over Meeting House Square in Dublin for a third year, the Imbolc Fair returns from 12-4:30pm. Enjoy music from DJ Louise Bruton, grab a coffee and a tasty treat from Bahay, make a festive flower crown with Flowerpop, and learn about the art of blacksmithing with 9 Irons forge. More information here
Brigit x Seanchoíche
Pepper Canister Church, Saturday, 7-9.30pm
This special event will honour the legacy of the Celtic goddess Brigit – one of Ireland’s most beloved and powerful female figures – and celebrating the creativity, strength and resilience of women throughout history and today.
Stories on the night will focus around Brigit’s multifaceted legacy, covering a variety of themes including Wisdom, Nature, Rebellion and Healing, and will feature an uplifting blend of spoken word, live music, poetry and personal anecdotes including a few special guest speakers.
Special guests include multidisciplinary artist Pippa Moloney, poet and performer from Dublin Natalya O’Flaherty, singer-songwriter Farah Elle and Limerick activist Natasha O’Brien. More information here
Brigit: Boundless & Radical: Live Screenprinting with Damn Fine Print
Meeting House Square, Monday, 12-4.30pm
Roll up your sleeves and try your hand at screen printing. Choose from two designs by Jill & Gill specially commissioned for Brigit 2024 and 2025 entitled Brigit: Boundless Radical I & II – and let the experts from Damn Fine Print studio show you how to create your very own vibrant piece of art you can take home and proudly display on your wall.Free, first come, first served. More information here
Kildare
Brigid 2025: Spirit of Kildare
Brigid Spirit of Kildare. Photograph: Julien Behal
Kildare’s celebration of St Brigid takes place over the bank holiday weekend and beyond, and will commemorate St Brigid through the theme Her Spirit, Our Story. The programme includes several special St Brigid’s day concerts and events in collaboration with Hot Press which will honour the life of Brigid. More information here
Brigid’s Day Gathering at the Curragh
The Curragh Racecourse, Co Kildare, Saturday, 7pm
Taking place on February 1st at 7pm, this free public concert will take place on St Brigid’s Day, celebrating the Spirit of St Brigid, with some of Ireland’s most essential women artists – Sharon Shannon, Lyra, Irish Women in Harmony and more. More information here
Cork
Goddess Brigid Workshop
Triskel Arts Centre, Cork, Sunday, 2-6pm, €80/€40
Find your inner goddess in this Goddess Brigid Workshop, which is all about healing and growth, leaning into the concept of Imbolc and new beginnings. Led by Lewis Barfoot, the day will incorporate dancing, chanting, movement and something called a lamenting ceremony, inspired by the tradition of keening. But when all that’s done, you get to chill out with a cup of tea. It’s taking place in the Triskel Arts Centre in Cork on Sunday February 2nd.
Donegal
Féile na mBan
Various venues, Bundoran, until Monday
Up in Bundoran, Féile na mBan returns for its third year, with a weekend dedicated to the celebration of women. There are art and poetry receptions, an open mic night, cocktail hour and a series of talks on topics such as Grace O’Malley, Ireland’s pirate queen. There will be knitting, printing and art workshops, or you can head along to the craft market in the Bundoran Community Centre to pick up something that’s handmade locally. There are DJ sets and live music nights, too.
Kerry
Biddy’s Day
Various venues, Killorglin, until Sunday
Brigid’s Day goes by many names, and in Killorglin you’ll find the unique traditions of the Kerry-specific Biddy’s Day. There’s a strong focus on craft and tradition at the Biddy’s Day Festival, where you’ll see Biddy groups in straw hats holding Brídeóg dolls as they parade through the town with lanterns and flaming torches.
Nationwide
Brigid’s cross making
St Reginald’s Tower, Waterford, Saturday, 11am, 12.15pm & 2pm; National Botanic Gardens, Dublin, Sunday, 12pm & 2pm and Monday, 12pm
Come and see the technique behind making the traditional Brigid’s cross with step-by-step guidance, using fresh rushes. Workshops are taking place Sunday from 12–12.30pm and 2-2.30pm and Monday from 2-2.30pm in the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin. There is also a workshop taking place in Waterford’s St Reginald’s Tower. They are running three workshops with limited spaces, so booking is essential. Book your preferred time by calling 051-304220 or e-mailing reginaldstower@opw.ie. Workshop times: 11am– 12pm, 12.15-1.15pm and 2-3pm. More information here and here.
Visit the Cliffs of Moher: Take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks.
Explore Dublin’s cultural attractions: From the Guinness Storehouse to Trinity College, there’s plenty to discover in the capital city.
Enjoy a traditional Irish music session: Head to a pub and immerse yourself in the lively sounds of traditional Irish music.
Take a hike in the Wicklow Mountains: Enjoy the stunning scenery and fresh air with a hike in the beautiful Wicklow Mountains.
Visit the Titanic Belfast: Explore the fascinating history of the Titanic at this award-winning museum in Belfast.
Relax on the beaches of Donegal: With miles of pristine coastline, Donegal is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a day at the beach.
Sample some Irish whiskey: Take a tour of one of Ireland’s many distilleries and learn about the history and craftsmanship behind this beloved spirit.
Discover the beauty of Connemara: Explore the rugged landscape of Connemara and take in the stunning views of mountains, lakes, and bogs.
Attend a traditional Irish festival: From music festivals to food festivals, there’s always something happening in Ireland over the bank holiday weekend.
Take a boat tour of the Aran Islands: Experience the unique culture and stunning scenery of the Aran Islands with a boat tour from Galway.
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bank holiday weekend, Irish Times, things to see, things to do, weekend activities, holiday events, Irish attractions, weekend plans, weekend getaways, travel ideas, weekend activities in Ireland.
A Great Feast of Light: Growing Up Irish in the Television Age – GOOD
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Growing up Irish in the television age was a truly magical experience. From the moment we turned on the TV, we were transported to a world of light, laughter, and endless possibilities.
One of the most memorable aspects of growing up Irish in the television age was the great feast of light that awaited us every evening. Whether it was gathering around the TV with family to watch our favorite shows or staying up late to catch a movie, the glow of the screen brought us together in a way that nothing else could.
From classic Irish shows like “The Late Late Show” to American favorites like “Friends” and “The Simpsons,” television was a window into a world far beyond our own. We laughed, we cried, and we learned valuable lessons about life and love from the characters on screen.
But it wasn’t just the content of the shows that made growing up Irish in the television age so special – it was the shared experience of watching them with loved ones. Whether it was discussing the latest plot twists over dinner or reenacting our favorite scenes with friends, television brought us closer together in ways that words alone never could.
So here’s to the great feast of light that illuminated our childhoods and shaped us into the people we are today. May the memories of those long nights spent in front of the TV continue to warm our hearts and bring us together for years to come. Cheers to growing up Irish in the television age – it truly was a time of magic and wonder.
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BLACKSBURG, Va. — After a win at Boston College last Thursday and the weekend off, No. 3 Notre Dame (17-2, 8-0) heads to Virginia Tech (14-6, 5-4) for the second of three straight away games.
The Irish most recently stifled a hot Eagles offense, defeating BC 89-63 and holding them to a 1-17 showing from the floor to close out the game. Hannah Hidalgo paced Notre Dame with 23 points, while Sonia Citron stuffed the stat sheet once again with 9 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals and a block. She led the team in both boards and dimes.
Notre Dame’s “pick your poison” mantra is alive and well through eight ACC games. There are five players in the conference posting at least 15 points, 6 rebounds and a pair of assists per game in ACC play. Three of them play for the Irish (Citron, Hidalgo and Olivia Miles). The other two are Miami’s Haley Cavinder and Stanford’s Nunu Agara.
In total, Notre Dame has a player ranked in the top 10 nationally in four of the five major statistical categories — Hidalgo (points and steals), Miles (assists) and Kate Koval (blocks). As a team, the Irish lead the ACC in rebounds, assists, blocks and steals per game plus field goal percentage, scoring margin and rebounding margin. The Irish offense is posting 87.5 points per game, which ranks second in the conference and fifth nationally. The group also leads the country with a 41.2 success rate from beyond the arc.
The Hokies are led by first year coach and Notre Dame alum Megan Duffy, who played in South Bend from 2002-06. Virginia Tech is coming off an 85-57 loss to No. 20 NC State but brings a balanced offense and young core to the court. Carleigh Wenzel is the team’s leading scorer (14.3 ppg), but four players are averaging 10+ points per contest. Wenzel led the Hokies with 18 points in Raleigh on Sunday. Forward Rose Michaeux is posting a near double-double with 12.4 points and 8.5 boards per game.
Notre Dame is 17-2 all-time against Virginia Tech and has won the last five meetings, including a top-10 clash in December 2022, the last time the Irish visited Cassell Coliseum. Thursday’s game airs on ACCNX and tips off at 6 p.m.
The No. 3 Notre Dame Fighting Irish are hitting the road once again as they travel to Blacksburg to take on Virginia Tech in their next game. After a thrilling victory in their last matchup, Notre Dame is looking to continue their winning streak and solidify their spot near the top of the rankings.
This road swing will test the Fighting Irish as they face a tough Virginia Tech team on their home turf. The Hokies are always a formidable opponent, especially in front of their passionate fans. Notre Dame will need to bring their A-game in order to come out on top in this matchup.
With a talented roster and a strong coaching staff, the Fighting Irish have the tools to come away with a victory in Blacksburg. Fans can expect an exciting and competitive game as Notre Dame looks to extend their winning streak and make a statement in the college football world.
Be sure to tune in and cheer on the Fighting Irish as they continue their road swing and strive for another impressive victory. Let’s go Irish! #GoIrish
SOUTH BEND, Ind. – The Fighting Irish (9-10, 3-5) men’s basketball team looks to make it two wins in a row when they return home to complete the two-game series with Georgia Tech (9-11, 3-6). They’ll also have revenge in the back of their minds, trying to avenge a 75-86 loss in Atlanta on NYE. The Irish and Yellow Jackets will tip off at 9 p.m. ET on ACC Network.
Tuesday night also marks the program’s Coaches vs Cancer Game with the staff raising awareness in conjunction with Suits and Sneakers Week.
ALWAYS CLOSE
The first matchup was a tale of two halves and it also was a game that didn’t feature Markus Burton. The Irish found themselves in a 19-point halftime deficit after a poor shooting start; however, the Irish fought back in the second half and cut it to a one-possession game with just under six minutes left. The Irish ultimately shot 60.0 percent in the second half, scoring 51 points. Tae Davis tied his career high in points with 27, with 22 being scored in the second half.
For whatever reason, these two teams always play close and it’s always a battle. Twenty-one of the last 24 games between these two have been decided by single digits. Five of those games have gone to overtime. Of those 21 games that have been decided by single digits, the average margin of victory has been 4.9.
ND leads the overall series 18-14 with an impressive 12-2 mark at home.
BURTON EMPHATICALLY BACK
After 39 days away rehabbing his knee injury, Burton has returned and amplified the ND offense. If you discount the Rutgers game since Burton got injured in the first four minutes, the sophomore has recorded 20+ points in seven of his last eight games.
When you look at January-only scoring averages amongst ACC players, Burton ranks second, trailing only Duke’s Cooper Flagg (25.0). Burton is averaging 21.7 ppg in January, which coincides with his ACC scoring average.
Markus Burton has produced four straight games with 20+ points and if he gets to five, he’ll be the first Irish player to achieve said feat since Ben Hansbrough in February of 2011.
The sophomore has recorded incredible stretches during this four-game stint. He scored the first nine points at Virginia before finishing with a team best 21 in the win – tying his season high of four made threes. Prior, Burton dropped a first-half career high 22 points at Syracuse, finishing with 28.
We’ll end on this note … even despite that 2-point Rutgers game dragging down his scoring average, Burton is still averaging 19.9 ppg on the year.
CHASING ACHIEVEMENTS
Burton is currently averaging 19.9 ppg and 3.3 apg. If he finishes the season at 20.0+ ppg and 3.0+ apg, he’ll become the first Irish player ever to do so. When we broaden the scope, he would become just the 15th ACC player to do so since 1996.
However, Burton isn’t the only one who can cement their name in the Irish record books this season. Grad transfer Matt Allocco owns a 3.50 assist-to-turnover ratio. The highest A/TO ratio in program history for a season was 3.16 by Martin Inglesby back in 2000-01.
Allocco is also converting 47.9 percent from deep which would ranks second all-time in program history for a season. The top two spots both belong to Joe Fredrick who shot 47.2 percent in 1989-90 and 52.1 percent in 1988-89.
THREE BALL HEATING UP
The three ball is starting to flow for the Fighting Irish. In ACC play, Notre Dame is converting 41.0 percent from beyond the arc, which leads all league schools.
Overall on the year, the Irish have drained 37.6 percent from deep which ranks 31st in the country.
Twice over the past four games, the Irish have connected on double-digit treys. They sunk 14 at Duke (which tied their season high) and 12 in the win at Virginia.
PROGRAM FIRST IN CHARLOTTESVILLE
There’s not a better way to correct a certain ACC road narrative then by claiming a road victory in a building you’ve never won in. The Irish did just that this past Saturday with a 74-59 victory at Virginia. Coach Shrewsberry has now defeated Virginia twice in three matchups.
The Irish were led by Markus Burton with 21 points, shooting 50% on the night and 4-6 from behind the arc. Tae Davis finished with 16 points and six rebounds.
Notre Dame shot 48% on the game and an impressive 52% from three, knocking down 12 from deep. The Irish held the Cavaliers to 40% from the floor as they outrebounded Virginia 39-27.
THE TAE-KOVER
Tae Davis has emerged as one of the top talents in the ACC and should be a candidate for Most Improved.
Tae is averaging a career best 16.4 ppg, up from last year’s 9.2 ppg. His scoring average ranks 10th amongst ACC players.
The Indy native is also shooting a career best 50.5 percent, up from last year’s 48.4. In ACC play, Tae’s scoring average is slightly higher at 17.3 ppg.
Tae is ultimately riding a career best 14 straight games in double figures. Where is he getting it done at? Well, the junior has been highly proficient around the rim where he’s 70-of-104 (.673). He’s also improved from the free-throw line over the course of the season. He’s 22 for his last 27, raising his FT% to a career best 76.7 percent.
EVOLVING
When Burton was recovering, other Irish had to step up and evolve and we saw it unfold.We’ve already mentioned how Tae Davis is posting career numbers, but so is Braeden Shrewsberry.
The sophomore guard is averaging 14.7 ppg, up from last year’s 10.2. He’s shooting 43.5 percent, which is up from last year’s 39.8.
He’s connecting on 2.8 threes per game this season, with a .371 clip from beyond the arc. Shrewsberry’s sweet spot has been the corner three where he’s 14-31 (.452), which is 9.7 percent above the D1 average. Shrewsberry boasts higher three ball numbers in ACC play where he ranks third in 3pt FG% (.431) and second in threes/game (3.1).
However, it’s important to point out that he’s added to his overall arsenal with a dangerous floater that keeps defenders guessing. He’s shooting 47.1 percent from midrange twos and 48.6 percent from the paint. He’s 53.9 percent overall from two-point range.
VET LEADER
When Coach Shrews added grad transfer Matt Allocco to the roster he got two things – a talented guard with NCAA Tournament experience and a leader by every definition of the word. Coach Shrews hoped that his young core of players would pick up those characteristics and then be leaders to the next group coming in.
This season, Allocco is averaging 10.1 ppg on 46.7 percent shooting. He’s draining a career best 47.9 percent from three, which would ranks as the second highest for a season in program history.
As previously mentioned, Allocco is also on pace for the highest A/TO ratio in program history at 3.50.
Allocco also leads the team in defensive rebounds per game at 4.3 and leads in +/- at +94 on the year. Lastly, the Ohio native is averaging 1.5 steals in ACC play which ranks ninth.
NOTRE NOTABLES
With 13 points in the win over BC on Jan. 13, Matt Allocco officially crossed over the 1,000 career point milestone. He currently sits at 1,027.
Allocco boasts a true shooting percentage of 70.8 over the last five games, which according to CBB Analytics ranks in the 99th percentile.
Kebba entered the year with just four double-digit scoring performances to his name. He’s posted three in ACC play including his first career double-double at NC State.
Speaking of Kebba, the junior is averaging 2.9 offensive rebounds/game in ACC play, which ranks fourth in the league.
Braeden is comfortable playing at home where he averages 15.8 ppg on 48.0 percent shooting.
Burton is averaging 2.2 made threes per game in ACC play which ranks eighth inthe league.
Yes Sir! – The freshman guard impressed at #4 Duke, recording his first double-digit scoring performance with 11 points on 4-7 shooting, plus 2-4 from three.
Notre Dame continues to raise its KenPom Offense Adj. Efficiency. Over the last several games, it has risen from 56th to 40th with a rating of 116.6. Notre Dame’s overall KenPom rating sits at No. 76.
— ND —
Get ready for some late night hoops as the Notre Dame Fighting Irish host Georgia Tech on Tuesday night! The Irish will be looking to defend their home court and come out with a big win against the Yellow Jackets.
Tip-off is set for 9:00 PM at Purcell Pavilion, so grab your green and gold gear and come cheer on the Fighting Irish as they battle it out on the hardwood. It’s sure to be an exciting matchup, so don’t miss out on the action.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for some fun on a Tuesday night, come join us for what promises to be a thrilling game of college basketball. Let’s pack the stands and show our support for the Fighting Irish as they take on Georgia Tech!
Ann Taylor Women’s Irish Linen V-Neck Popover Blouse Red Orange 3/4 Sleeves
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Introducing the Ann Taylor Women’s Irish Linen V-Neck Popover Blouse in stunning Red Orange with 3/4 Sleeves!
This vibrant and chic blouse is perfect for adding a pop of color to your wardrobe this season. Made from high-quality Irish linen, it’s lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for those warm spring and summer days.
The flattering V-neckline and popover style give this blouse a modern and feminine touch, while the 3/4 sleeves add a stylish and versatile element to the design.
Whether you dress it up with tailored pants for the office or pair it with jeans for a more casual look, this blouse is sure to become a wardrobe staple. Make a statement in this bold and beautiful Red Orange hue!
Shop the Ann Taylor Women’s Irish Linen V-Neck Popover Blouse now and elevate your style game! #AnnTaylor #WomensFashion #PopofColor
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