2027 CB Xavier Hasan Impressed by Notre Dame Following Visit

2027 Cardinal Gibbons (N.C.) cornerback Xavier Hasan‍ picked up an offer from Notre Dame on Pot of Gold Day, so his trip to South Bend for Irish Invasion was a little different than other recruits on campus. 

That said, the 6-foot, 185-pounder wanted to workout and prove Mike Mickens was right to offer him and the four-star prospect accomplished just that. 

“My speed, my hands, being able to play man,” Hasan said of what he was able to show at Irish Invasion. A lot of people say I can't play man, so I showed that I'm really good at the camp today.” 

The North Carolina native also wanted to return the favor to the Notre Dame staff as they made the trip down to see him in the spring. 

“The coaches came to see me in North Carolina,” Hasan said. “They said you should come up because we came down here to see you. That's a fair decision.” 

Mickens had the opportunity to work closely with Hasan for nearly two hours during Irish Invasion. It was a valuable time that strengthened their connection and provided Hasan with a firsthand look at what sets Mickens apart from other defensive back coaches. 

“I like him a lot,” Hasan stated. “He's laid back. He's not too hyper. He's a good coach for me. I know he gets hyped up when you make big plays.” 

Notre Dame’s recent run of elite cornerback play also has Hasan’s attention. 

“I like it,” Hasan explained. “They've had a lot of success in the defense, especially. Notre Dame's defense is always pretty good. It's just really special to be able to come up here.”

Head coach Marcus Freeman made a point to connect with Hasan as well, and their conversation left a lasting impression.

“We had a little chat,” said Hasan. “We talked about school, life after football. He likes relationships and talking about other things than football. He's a great guy. Chill, laid-back coach. He's pretty funny. He made me laugh a couple times.” 

Hasan was able to get a feel for the campus, but also have some fun during the BBQ as each position group competed in a grill off. 

“It was really good,” stated Hasan. “I liked it a lot. There was a cooking competition and it was fun. It was funny looking at people cook. Some people can't cook.” 

The four-star prospect has also seen Notre Dame’s run on the recruiting trail in North Carolina. In fact, Hasan has spoken to Rodney Dunham and Ebenezer Ewetade, which opened his eyes to why Notre Dame could be a real contender for him. 

“I talked to the two edges that committed here,” explained Hasan. “The school, the education - and after football because football has to end at some point. I want to be able to have a good education and set myself up for a good life.” 

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