Notre Dame’s women’s basketball team has been bolstered by the return of fifth-year forward Maddy Westbeld, who underwent foot surgery in late August 2024. Westbeld, a consistent starter throughout her collegiate career, made her season debut on January 12, 2025, contributing to the team’s 76-66 victory over No. 17 North Carolina. Reflecting on her return, she expressed joy and relief, stating, “Woke up this morning and went to my coffee shop and was just smiling. It was a hard journey leading up to this point. This was the hardest part. This was ripping the band-aid off.” citeturn0search2

 

Since rejoining the lineup, Westbeld has been instrumental in maintaining the Fighting Irish’s momentum. Over the past 12 games, she has averaged 8.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and over one block per game, showcasing impressive shooting percentages of 57.1% from the field and 46.4% from beyond the arc. citeturn0search1 Her performance has been pivotal in extending Notre Dame’s winning streak to 18 games, propelling the team to the No. 1 spot in both the AP and coaches polls.

 

In a recent podcast interview, Westbeld discussed her decision to undergo surgery, the challenges of being sidelined, and the process of integrating with new teammates mid-season. She emphasized the team’s strong chemistry and her commitment to contributing at full strength. Head coach Niele Ivey praised Westbeld’s resilience and leadership, noting that her return adds depth and experience to the roster. The team’s defensive prowess has been a standout, with Westbeld highlighting their impressive man-to-man defense as a cornerstone of their success. citeturn0search1

 

Looking ahead, the Fighting Irish are poised for a deep postseason run, with Westbeld’s return enhancing their championship aspirations. Her journey from surgery to impactful play exemplifies determination and underscores the team’s collective goal of securing a national title.

 

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