For the first time since January 2019, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish women’s basketball team has ascended to the No. 1 spot in the Associated Press (AP) Top 25 poll, marking a significant milestone under the leadership of head coach Niele Ivey. This achievement reflects the team’s exceptional performance throughout the season and underscores Ivey’s impactful coaching tenure.

 

**A Return to the Pinnacle**

 

On February 17, 2025, Notre Dame reclaimed the top position in the AP poll, a status they last held on January 21, 2019. This ascent is particularly noteworthy as it represents the first time the team has achieved the No. 1 ranking under Coach Ivey’s guidance. The Fighting Irish have demonstrated consistent excellence, maintaining a presence in the AP poll for 72 consecutive weeks, the third-longest active streak in the nation. citeturn0search2

 

**The Ivey Era: A Legacy of Excellence**

 

Niele Ivey’s association with Notre Dame is both deep-rooted and multifaceted. As a standout point guard from 1996 to 2001, she led the team to its first NCAA Championship in 2001. Transitioning to coaching, Ivey served as an assistant under legendary coach Muffet McGraw for 12 seasons, contributing to a remarkable 386-55 record and another national title in 2018. citeturn0search3

 

In April 2020, Ivey was named the head coach of the Fighting Irish, becoming the first Black female head coach in the program’s history. citeturn0search11 Her tenure has been marked by a swift return to prominence for the team. Over her first five seasons, Ivey has amassed a commendable 111-34 record, securing an ACC Tournament title and leading the team to three consecutive Sweet 16 appearances. citeturn0search1

 

**2024-2025 Season: A Testament to Resilience and Skill**

 

The current season has been a showcase of Notre Dame’s resilience and skill. After experiencing back-to-back losses in November, the team embarked on an impressive 17-game winning streak. This surge includes notable victories over formidable opponents such as Texas, UConn, and North Carolina. citeturn0search18

 

The team’s success can be attributed to the stellar performances of its backcourt trio: Sonia Citron, Hannah Hidalgo, and Olivia Miles. Collectively, they have contributed 1,258 points, 381 rebounds, 303 assists, and 168 steals, accounting for significant portions of the team’s overall statistics. Hidalgo stands out with an average of 25.2 points and 4.1 steals per game, ranking second nationally in both categories. Miles leads the ACC with 6.3 assists per game and boasts a 53.1% shooting accuracy from the field, the highest among ACC guards. citeturn0search2

 

**Looking Ahead**

 

As the season progresses, the Fighting Irish are poised to maintain their momentum. Their upcoming schedule includes a high-stakes matchup against No. 11 Duke, a contest that will have significant implications for ACC standings and postseason positioning. Under Coach Ivey’s adept leadership, Notre Dame is not only reclaiming its storied legacy but also setting the stage for sustained success in collegiate women’s basketball.

 

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