(LAS VEGAS) – The Notre Dame men’s basketball team fell 62-59 in a close battle with St. Mary’s (CA) in the first game of the 2021 Maui Invitational, being held in Las Vegas this year. The Irish held a 58-57 lead with just over a minute remaining, but St. Mary’s forward Dan Fotu connected on a shot-clock beating three pointer to give the Gaels a lead they would not relinquish. Cormac Ryan, who led the Irish with a season-high 16 points, missed the back end of two free throws that could have tied the game with seven seconds remaining. The Gaels opened the game with a 7-0 run, setting the tone for a battle that would be defined by numerous runs from both teams. The struggle featured 16 lead changes, 10 ties and no lead larger than seven points. Notre Dame will now face tournament host Chaminade Tuesday night, then will play either Texas A&M or Butler.