Matt Farrell: “These guys fight so hard"

Notre Dame battled on Tuesday night, but the Irish came up short against Louisville in two overtimes. 

The game marked the return of point guard Matt Farrell, and the senior captain had the chance to win the game at the end of regulation and in the first overtime. 

“They’re a good defensive team,” Farrell said after the loss. “They’re big and long. We put ourselves in a position to win just like the last game. We could very well be 5-1, but we’re 3-3. Sometimes that’s just how it is. 

“I had a chance twice to win the game. I’m going to keep replaying that in my mind all night. It is what it is.” 

Farrell, who wears his emotions on his sleeve, was proud of his team despite the loss as they were battling without fellow senior Bonzie Colson and freshman starter DJ Harvey left the game with a knee injury. 

“These guys fight so hard,” stated an emotional Farrell. “We’re going through so much right now. I’m telling you it can only make us stronger. We’re getting better and better every day. Hopefully, come tournament time, we can be a really good team.” 

As a captain, it’s on Farrell’s shoulders to keep spirits high and lead the Irish through the adversity in front of them. 

“We have to stay positive,” Farrell said. “We have to believe. It’s a trust factor. Everyone trusts each other in this locker room from coaching staff to players to managers. We trust each other and play for each other. 

“We’re going to keep fighting every game. That’s all we can do. These last two really hurt. It’s going to test our character for sure.” 

The chance to get back on the floor wasn’t lost on the New Jersey native. 

“I just wanted to go out there and have fun,” Farrell said of his return. “I felt like I hadn’t played in forever. I can’t imagine how Bonzie is feeling. It was fun to get back out there, play with the guys, play with emotion and play in our arena.” 

Farrell also had a message for Notre Dame fans. 

“The fans have to stay with us,” said Farrell. “They have to stay with us all year. We’re not going to let them down. We’re going to keep fighting and getting better. We have to go get one on Saturday.”