Notre Dame’s women’s basketball team, under the leadership of head coach Niele Ivey, has recently faced challenges that have tested their offensive and defensive strategies. Despite a strong start to the season, the team encountered setbacks during the Cayman Islands Classic in December 2024, suffering consecutive losses to TCU and unranked Utah. These defeats highlighted issues in both offensive execution and defensive cohesion.
In the matchup against TCU, the Irish struggled to find their rhythm, leading to a 76-68 loss. The following game against Utah saw similar difficulties, with Notre Dame falling 78-67. Coach Ivey acknowledged the team’s struggles, noting that they appeared “average offensively and a step — sometimes two — slow on defense” during the tournament. citeturn0search3
In response to these challenges, Coach Ivey has emphasized the importance of returning to the team’s foundational principles. She has focused on improving defensive intensity and ensuring that players are executing plays with precision. This approach aims to address the lapses that have affected the team’s performance during critical moments.
The team’s resilience was evident in their subsequent games. Notably, in a decisive victory over Loyola Maryland, the Irish showcased a revitalized offense and a stifling defense, leading to a 97-45 win. Standout performances included Olivia Miles achieving her second triple-double of the season and Hannah Hidalgo leading the scoring with 33 points. citeturn0news13
Coach Ivey’s adjustments have also been reflected in the team’s strategic approach. She has worked on refining offensive sets to create better shot opportunities and has reinforced defensive schemes to disrupt opponents’ rhythms. These tactical changes aim to enhance the team’s overall performance and consistency on the court.
Looking ahead, the Fighting Irish are poised to build upon these improvements as they enter the latter part of the season. With Coach Ivey’s leadership and a renewed focus on both ends of the floor, Notre Dame aims to regain their winning momentum and continue their pursuit of excellence in women’s college basketball.
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