BOYS’ BASKETBALL NOTEBOOK

Notre Dame (18-5, 6-3) has fallen on hard times. The Knights have dropped three of five Mission League games.

Notre Dame was the region’s top-ranked team for six consecutive weeks but has plunged to No. 9.

One of Notre Dame’s problems is that its edge in experience has vanished. Two months into the season, younger Mission teams have caught up with the senior-dominated Knights.

Good scouting reports have created obstacles for Notre Dame’s top players, Cody Pearson and Michael Luderer. Teams have been daring Pearson to shoot from beyond 15 feet and providing defensive help when he drives, resulting in charging fouls. Luderer has struggled with his outside shot.

The good news for Notre Dame is winning the Mission title remains possible. The Knights have games left against co-league leaders Loyola and Crespi.