SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- South Bend is used to football parties this time of year, but basketball is ready to crash the spotlight. Notre Dame is kicking off the season in a brand-new way with an outdoor block party called Irish Jam.
On Friday, Oct. 3, Eddy Street Commons will transform into a half-court festival. The free event, presented by Under Armour, invites fans to celebrate hoops season right in the heart of the community.
From noon to 4 p.m., the afternoon will feature mini tournaments, games, and giveaways. Then at 6 p.m., men’s coach Micah Shrewsberry and women’s coach Niele Ivey will introduce their teams to the crowd. Both coaches say it’s about bringing Irish basketball closer to South Bend fans.
The evening will heat up with fan-voted captains picking squads for fun competitions like a 3-point shootout, a skills challenge, and a shooting stars contest. Expect a live DJ, team emcees, and even brand-new Notre Dame gear available only at the event.
Local businesses are gearing up, too. Brothers Bar and Grill, right in the middle of Eddy Street, expects to see big crowds before and after the celebration.
What to Know
Location: Eddy Street Common
Time: Noon–4 p.m. activities, 6 p.m. team introductions
Admission: Free, standing-room-only
Parking: Eddy Street Garage + campus lots
Irish Jam is more than a pep rally, it’s the start of a new tradition, music, fans, and hoops under the South Bend sky to launch another season of Irish basketball.