The College Basketball season is just a few months away and there are multiple teams that have a lot to prove in their respective conferences.

One of those teams is Notre Dame, who after falling in the second round of the NCAA tournament last season, are ready to try to return to the highest level of College Basketball.

Despite losing Blake Wesley, who was selected by the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA draft, the Fighting Irish added several pieces that will be essential on the road to March Madness.

A key player in Notre Dame's success will be fifth-year graduate transfer Marcus Hammond. Fresh from playing four years in the MAAC with Niagara University, the versatile left handed guard is ready to take his game to the next level and compete in the ACC.

Hammond spoke exclusively with VAVEL USA about what it means to be at Notre Dame and what his first weeks on campus been like so far.

''I’m really excited to play at Notre Dame this season,'' he said. ''It’s my official last year in college and last chance to make it to the NCAA Tournament. I'm excited.''

''The first couple of weeks have been amazing. Just creating chemistry with my teammates, learning campus and the Notre Dame lifestyle.'' Hammond added. 

Prior to joining Notre Dame, the 22 year-old guard averaged 18.1 points per game, which was second in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference. He also became the eighth player in Niagara Purple Eagles history to earn all-conference honors three times. 

Hammond also spoke about how playing in the MAAC and Niagara specifically will help him transition better into the ACC.

''Niagara will help me transition into the ACC because it taught me that there's no time to slack because every game you are playing for something,'' he added. 

''I will carry that same mentality over to the ACC.''

The Fighting Irish finished the 2021/22 ACC campaign ranked third in with a 15-5 conference record, just behind Duke and North Carolina.

Not only is Hammond a career 39% shooter from three, but he also has the ability to handle the ball, get into the lane, and either score in traffic or find open teammates. 

With plenty to prove at the highest level of college hoops, Notre Dame fans can be sure that they are getting a player willing to work and improve in all aspects of his game.