In a surprising turn of events, five-star forward Jacy Abii has committed to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish women’s basketball program for the 2025 recruiting class. Abii, who had been heavily pursued by top programs including South Carolina, Kentucky, and Missouri, made her decision following a recent visit to Notre Dame’s campus.

 

Abii’s commitment is a significant boost for head coach Niele Ivey and the Fighting Irish, as they continue to build a formidable roster for the future. Standing at 6-foot-2, Abii is known for her versatility on the court, with the ability to play both forward positions effectively. Her athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive prowess have made her one of the most sought-after recruits in the nation.

 

This commitment comes on the heels of Notre Dame securing another top prospect, five-star forward Leah Macy, who officially signed with the program three months ago. Macy, ranked as the No. 19 player in the country for the Class of 2025 by ESPN, chose Notre Dame over other elite programs such as UConn, Louisville, and Kentucky. Her decision was influenced by the program’s strong academic reputation and the opportunity to compete at the highest level under Coach Ivey’s leadership.

 

The addition of both Abii and Macy signifies Notre Dame’s commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in women’s college basketball. These recruits are expected to make immediate impacts upon their arrival, complementing the existing talent on the roster. Notably, the team has also welcomed freshman standout Kate Koval, a 6-foot-5 center from Kyiv, Ukraine. Koval’s resilience and impressive skill set have already garnered attention, and she is anticipated to be a key contributor in the upcoming season. citeturn0news10

 

However, the team has faced challenges with injuries to key players. Veteran forward Maddy Westbeld is currently sidelined with a foot injury, expected to miss the beginning of the 2024-25 season. Despite this setback, the depth provided by incoming talents like Abii, Macy, and Koval offers optimism for the team’s performance. citeturn0news16

 

Abii’s decision to join Notre Dame over other prominent programs underscores the program’s growing reputation and appeal to top-tier talent. As the Fighting Irish continue to strengthen their roster with elite recruits, they are poised to remain a dominant force in women’s college basketball for years to come.

 

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