Notre Dame rallied from a 10-point second-half deficit to upset Villanova 74-72 in the Eternal City Tip-Off at Palazzo dello Sport in Rome on Sunday, marking a dramatic opening to the 2026-27 college basketball season.
Irish rally behind Koehler, Smith, Duncomb
The Fighting Irish trailed 60-50 with 10:24 remaining after Villanova guard Tyler Perkins hit his fourth three-pointer of the half. Forward Brady Koehler, point guard Braeden Smith, and center Logan Duncomb then led a comeback with key plays on both ends. Duncomb, scoreless in the first half, scored nine points including a go-ahead three-pointer — the first of his career — with 68 seconds left. Smith, a Gonzaga transfer, finished with 16 points and went 10-for-11 from the free-throw line, while Koehler posted 16 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks despite foul trouble.
Koehler's breakout performance
Koehler's all-around play included a crucial block on Kwame Evans' potential go-ahead three and a contested jumper on Elijah Crawford in the final seconds before securing the rebound and hitting two free throws to seal the win. The 6-10 sophomore showed size, length, and athleticism that could make him a 2027 NBA Draft prospect, according to Notre Dame coach Micah Shrewsberry.
Villanova's concerns
For Villanova coach Kevin Willard, the loss exposed issues despite a strong showing from Perkins (18 points) and frontcourt size. The Wildcats committed 20 turnovers, struggled in transition defense, and committed ill-advised fouls. Notre Dame won despite converting only six shots at the rim. The defeat comes early in the season, but Willard's team faces a tough schedule ahead.
