Written by James Carter
The conference issued a public reprimand after Notre Dame’s loss at Cal ended with a controversial four-point play — and a tense scene at the buzzer.
The ACC has issued a public reprimand to Notre Dame men’s basketball coach Micah Shrewsberry after he aggressively confronted an official at the end of the Fighting Irish’s 72–71 loss at California on Friday night. The league said Shrewsberry’s actions violated its sportsmanship policy and called the behavior “unacceptable,” adding that the incident “tarnishes the on-court play between these institutions.” (Full ACC details and the postgame sequence were reported by ESPN.)
What triggered the flashpoint
- Notre Dame led by three in the final seconds.
- Cal guard Dai Dai Ames hit a 3-pointer while being fouled, and then made the free throw to complete a four-point play.
- Cal held on to win 72–71, and the closing decision became the center of immediate postgame frustration.
According to the conference statement, Shrewsberry “aggressively confronted” a member of the officiating crew after the final horn. Video showed him charging toward official Adam Flore before players and staff stepped in to hold him back.
Shrewsberry apologizes: “My actions were inappropriate”
Shortly before the ACC’s reprimand was announced, Shrewsberry released a statement apologizing for the scene after the game and taking responsibility for his conduct.
“I want to apologize for what took place immediately after the Cal game last night. My actions were inappropriate and not symbolic of the leader I strive to be and what Notre Dame expects of its coaches and educators.”
“I will learn from this lack of judgement and be better in the future.”
The loss dropped Notre Dame to 10–5 overall and 1–1 in ACC play, while Cal improved to 13–2 (1–1 ACC). For a clean box score and game recap, see ESPN’s game page.
The ACC said it considers the matter closed, but the incident is likely to keep attention on late-game tactics and officiating decisions — especially in tight conference games where one whistle can flip the final possession.
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