COL BKB: Connecticut 72, Notre Dame 65

STORRS, Conn., Feb. 28 (UPI) -- Jeff Adrien scored 25 points Saturday to pace the second-ranked Connecticut Huskies' 72-65 win over the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame.

Adrien hit 11-of-15 from the floor and had nine rebounds for UConn (27-2, 15-2 Big East), which stands one game ahead of second-place Louisville in the conference. Hasheem Thabeet had 16 points, 11 rebounds and eight blocked shots.

The Huskies have assured themselves at least a bye through the first two rounds of the Big East Tournament. The conference's new format includes all 16 teams for the first time.

Tory Jackson led the Notre Dame (16-12, 7-9) offense with 17 points. Luke Harangody and Kyle McAlarney each had 14 points for the Irish, who led 35-34 early in the second half.