STF Road Trip: Seton Hall/Notre Dame

By Ray Floriani

NEWARK, NJ - One of the first things about the new Prudential Center in Newark is its quality as a multitask facility. Entering the ‘Rock’, fans pass by a high school practice on the auxiliary ice rink. On exiting, fans walking past the rink noticed a high school game (in the third period) going on.



Tonight it’s Big east basketball and Notre Dame visited Seton Hall and came away with a 95-69 victory. Irish coach Mike Brey was impressed with the facility and told his Seton Hall counterpart Bobby Gonzalez, the ‘Rock’ should help his program immensely. Brey also added, “our guys loved the shooting back drop and would like to play here anytime.” Given the result and ND’s 54% shooting night it’s understandable.



A walk through the hallways remind one you are in NJ Devils country. A wide variety of concession and souvenir stands plus two full bars are available. A half time stop in the ‘ice’ bar reveals a moderate amount of ND fans are among the 9,800 in attendance.



For those wearing their ND colors this was one to thoroughly enjoy as the Irish romped and reminded us they will be a factor in the Big East Tournament next month.



Even the most devout Seton Hall follower who was against a move from the Meadowlands to the ‘Rock’ has warmed up to the facility. Its downtown Newark location leaves it accessible to public transportation and traffic hasn’t been a problem. One trip and Mike Brey loved it. Getting a road W was a bonus.