In a historic moment for the world of collegiate women’s basketball, Notre Dame’s head coach, Niele Ivey, has been recognized with one of the most prestigious awards in the sport. Not only has Ivey received the recognition of her team, but plans are now underway for a statue to be erected in her honor. This marks a monumental milestone in Ivey’s career, one that reflects her extraordinary contributions to the sport, both as a player and coach, and her lasting legacy in the world of college basketball.
Early Life and Rise to Stardom
Niele Ivey was born in St. Louis, Missouri, where her love for basketball began at a young age. Growing up in a sports-centric family, Ivey showed early promise on the basketball court, and her talent soon became impossible to ignore. She attended Cor Jesu Academy, where she quickly emerged as a standout player, earning accolades such as the USA Today Missouri Player of the Year during her senior year in high school.
Ivey’s success at the high school level laid the foundation for her next step: college basketball. She chose to attend the University of Notre Dame, where she would go on to become one of the most iconic players in the history of the program.
Collegiate Success: A Champion and Leader
During her time at Notre Dame from 1997 to 2001, Niele Ivey left an indelible mark on the women’s basketball program. As a point guard, she was the driving force behind the Fighting Irish’s national championship win in 2001. Her leadership on the court was unparalleled, and she was recognized as one of the best in the country.
Ivey’s exceptional skills and basketball IQ earned her numerous honors, including being named a third-team Associated Press All-American and a first-team All-BIG EAST selection. Her impressive accomplishments were capped by receiving the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award in 2001, which is given to the nation’s outstanding female collegian who stands 5-feet-8 or under and excels athletically and academically.
Niele Ivey’s success in college basketball helped elevate the Notre Dame women’s program into national prominence. Her legacy as one of the best point guards in the history of the program was cemented, and her leadership both on and off the court has inspired countless young athletes.
Professional Career: Resilience and Dedication
After finishing her college career at Notre Dame, Niele Ivey was selected by the Indiana Fever in the 2001 WNBA Draft. Although she faced many challenges, including the balancing act of being a professional athlete and a single mother to her son, Jaden Ivey, Ivey’s resilience and determination allowed her to thrive in the league.
During her five years in the WNBA, Ivey’s skillset, tenacity, and leadership continued to shine. Despite being undersized for the league, she never let that deter her from competing at the highest level. Ivey’s time in the WNBA solidified her place as one of the most well-rounded players in the game, known for her defense, basketball IQ, and ability to lead her team under pressure.
While her playing career was limited by injuries, Ivey’s perseverance left a lasting impact on her teammates and the basketball community. She demonstrated that true greatness is not just about physical ability but also about heart, resilience, and determination.
Transitioning to Coaching: A New Era at Notre Dame
In 2010, Ivey transitioned from player to coach when she joined the coaching staff at the University of Notre Dame as an assistant coach. Her experience as a player, combined with her deep understanding of the game, made her an invaluable asset to the coaching staff. Over the years, she contributed to the development of numerous standout players and helped the team achieve continued success in the NCAA tournament.
In 2020, Ivey was named the head coach of the Notre Dame women’s basketball team, taking over from the legendary Muffet McGraw. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for both Ivey and the Fighting Irish, and her impact was immediately felt.
As head coach, Ivey instilled the same values that helped her become a successful player: discipline, teamwork, and a relentless work ethic. Under her leadership, the team continued to be a dominant force in collegiate women’s basketball, competing for national championships and developing some of the best talent in the country.
The Prestigious Award and Statue: Honoring a Legacy
Niele Ivey’s impact as a coach did not go unnoticed. Recently, she was honored with a prestigious award by her team in recognition of her outstanding leadership and dedication. But the recognition didn’t end there – plans were immediately set in motion for a statue to be erected in her likeness at the University of Notre Dame.