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Notre Dame Basketball

TJ Gibbs Looking To Finish Notre Dame Career Strong

October 18, 2019
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It’s crazy to think Notre Dame guard TJ Gibbs is entering his senior season already and the New Jersey native is focused on making sure he ends his time in the blue and gold the right way. 

“Last year, there were a lot of lessons,” Gibbs said. “One of the biggest lessons was that we can’t take any game for granted. We have a lot of big games on the schedule this year and each game is a big game.

“Knowing this team is a unit, we’re sticking together, we’re mature and we’re a lot better. We’re stronger and just getting ready to attack with these guys is fun.” 

The Irish will start with a big game as they will travel to Chapel Hill to start the season and while the Tar Heels are the cream of the crop, Gibbs knows Notre Dame must treat every game like it’s North Carolina.

“Every game is good one,” stated Gibbs. “Obviously, the first game of the season is always one to get the jitters out, but we have to keep building on what we have. We have to play each game hard no matter who we’re playing.”

For the last several months, sophomore point guard Prentiss Hubb’s name has come up whenever someone has mentioned Irish hoops. Gibbs wasn’t bashful to praise his running mate as he felt Hubb had a productive offseason. 

“PHubb is doing a great job and growing into a leader,” explained Gibbs. “He’s always had it in him. Last year was his first year back of really playing. Thinking about what he did last year, I’m excited to see what he does this year. 

Hubb isn’t the only young guy who has impressed Gibbs through two weeks of practice. 

“The young guys are building and growing inside this culture,” said Gibbs. “We have to keep building each day. We have to stay strong and keep doing what we do.

“Nate (Laszewski), Robby (Carmody) is healthy. Each day he’s coming to practice stronger. Nate and Dane are shooting the ball. JD (Juwan Durham) is going to take the next step at both ends of the court.” 

Entering last season, Notre Dame was searching for a leader and there is no question who the leader of the team is heading into this season, which could be all the difference in the world.

“We feed off of (John) Mooney,” Gibbs stated. “What he sets for our team is the standard. He’s the gold standard. We all fall in line and his actions speak louder than his words. He’s a soft-spoken guy, but he gets it done.” 

As for Gibbs, he’ll be the first to tell you he battled ups and downs of being forced into a leadership role a year ago. Gibbs learned from those struggles and feels the lessons learned will pay off this season.

“That was the first time I’ve ever tried to step into a leadership role,” said Gibbs. “I’ve always had guys in front of me for the majority of my life that have helped guide me. Last year was the first time I’ve had to help other people. 

“Losing Rex was a huge hit because he was one of those guys I would lead on. Strengthening the relationships with the younger guys has always been a plus for us. I know I don’t have to do it all. We have a great squad and unit. I’m not taking anything for granted.” 

 
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