Andy Katz | NCAA.com Correspondent | August 24, 2019 5 predictions for how the ACC will play out this year 5 things to watch for in the ACC this upcoming season, according to Andy Katz Share Notre Dame hasn't been to the NCAA tournament since 2017. Andy Katz sees that drought coming to an end this year, with Irish guard Rex Pflueger set to return from injury. The Fighting Irish's return to March Madness is just one of several predictions Andy Katz has for the coming ACC men's basketball 2019-20 season. Here's what he has to say about some players to watch and important early season games in the ACC. CAN'T MISS: 21 most entertaining college basketball players to look for next season Andy Katz's 2019-20 ACC predictions Player of the year: Jordan Nwora, Louisville Freshman of the year: Cole Anthony, North Carolina Hidden gem: Markell Johnson, NC State Top 5 most impactful non-conference games: Duke vs. Kansas (in New York City), Nov. 5 Duke at Michigan State, Dec. 3 Virginia at Purdue, Dec. 4 North Carolina at Gonzaga, Dec. 18 Louisville vs. Texas Tech (in New York City), Dec. 10 Bold pick: Notre Dame will safely be in the NCAA tournament and will not sweat Selection Sunday, going from last to in the field. Finalists for 2021 Naismith Women's Player of the Year announced Returning Finalist Rhyne Howard Joined by Aliyah Boston, Paige Bueckers and Dana Evans in Pursuit of Player of the Year Award. READ MORE Here are some top caliber college volleyball setters in 2021 These are some of the top college volleyball setters in 2021. READ MORE March Madness: Getting to know the No. 2 seed in the NCAA tournament Check out the detailed history of how No. 2 seeds have fared in the NCAA tournament. READ MORE