Crusaders Finish Runner-Up at Jeff Dailey Memorial Tip-Off Tournament

Last weekend, Notre Dame hosted the annual Jeff Dailey Memorial Tip-Off Tournament. This two-day tournament brought strong teams to ND’s gym, including Pocono Mountain West, Freedom High School, and Frankford. The tournament opened on Saturday with Pocono Mountain West’s 74-46 win over Frankford.

Notre Dame then started its tournament play with a 63–55 overtime win against Freedom. The game stayed close throughout four quarters, but the Crusaders took over in overtime. Junior guard Justin Manning led the way with an outstanding 38-point performance. Notre Dame also received key contributions from multiple players. Drew Boyd added 8 points and 5 rebounds while Tommy Murphy finished with 5 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists. The Crusaders’ composure in overtime helped secure their spot in Sunday’s championship game.

In the final, Notre Dame faced Pocono Mountain West, which advanced after beating Frankford. PM West built an early lead and carried momentum throughout the game, defeating the Crusaders, 72–54. Despite the loss, Notre Dame had several strong performances. Justin Manning scored 20 points, with 2 assists and 1 rebound. Drew Boyd delivered another solid game with 18 points, 2 assists, and 6 rebounds. Tommy Murphy added 5 points, 4 assists, and 4 rebounds, and Cody Driscoll had 4 points, 2 assists, and 6 rebounds.

In the end, when the tournament concluded, Notre Dame finished as runner-up. Both Justin Manning and Drew Boyd were named to the All-Tournament Team after consistent scoring and strong all-around play throughout the weekend. Pocono Mountain West’s All-Tournament Team selections were Brady Behr and Tournament MVP KJ Coles. KJ Coles led the Panthers on Sunday in scoring with 23 points.

Notre Dame will face Jim Thorpe at home on Tuesday, December 2nd.