Notre Dame was unable to get a sixth year of eligibility out of the NCAA for their oft-injured star Tim Abromaitis, but they were able to get the same situation approved for forward Scott Martin (Valparaiso, Ind.). The Purdue transfer will return to play for the Irish in 2012-13.
Martin, who averaged 9.5 points and 5.7 rebounds per game in helping lead the Irish to a 22-12 record in 2011-12, transferred to Notre Dame in June of 2008 following his freshman year (2007-08) at Purdue University. After sitting out the 2008-09 campaign due to the NCAA transfer rule, Martin missed the entire 2009-10 season after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee during a preseason workout on October 2, 2009.
“We’re thrilled in the NCAA’s decision to grant Scott a sixth year of eligibility,” Irish head coach Mike Brey said. “Scott was our “glue guy” this past season with our young team. He helped drive us with his experience and leadership. I was so proud of him in how he handled himself once Tim Abromaitis went down with his ACL injury. Scott is a great example for college basketball and we’re excited that he gets an opportunity to play one more season in a Notre Dame uniform.”
Martin started all 33 games he played for the Irish in ’11-’12, scored in double figures in 17 contests and grabbed 10-plus rebounds in three games while averaging 34.7 minutes per contest. Two of his three double-doubles came in both of Notre Dame’s victories over USF. In a 60-49 victory during the regular season on Jan. 10, 2012, Martin netted 15 points and grabbed a career-high 13 rebounds against the Bulls. He also tallied a career-high 23 points against Delaware State on Nov. 18, 2011.
Martin served as one of three captains for the season, but his leadership was truly put to the test when Abromaitis, the only other returning starter on the Irish roster, tore his ACL. After an 8-5 start to the non-conference season, Martin was instrumental in leading the Irish to a 13-5 BIG EAST mark, the second-most regular-season league wins in program history, and third-place finish in the final BIG EAST standings.
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