Niele Ivey has become a name synonymous with success in women’s basketball. From her beginnings as a standout player to becoming a history-making coach, Ivey’s journey is inspiring to many, especially young athletes. As of 2024, Ivey is in her fourth year as the head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish women’s basketball team. Not only has she led the team to impressive wins, but she has also made history by becoming the first Black woman to hold this prestigious position at Notre Dame. Her career is a testament to hard work, leadership, and dedication to the game of basketball.
Ivey’s story is more than just about her accomplishments on the court. It’s about overcoming challenges and setting new standards for future generations of female coaches. Her influence extends beyond basketball, as she also serves as a role model for women in sports leadership. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Niele Ivey’s career, achievements, and personal life as she continues to make waves in the world of college basketball.
Key Takeaways
- Niele Ivey is the head coach of the Notre Dame women’s basketball team, making history as the first Black woman to hold this role at the university.
- Before coaching, Ivey had a successful career as a WNBA player, playing for the Indiana Fever, Detroit Shock, and Phoenix Mercury.
- She played a key role in Notre Dame’s 2001 NCAA Championship win as a player and has since excelled as a coach, leading Notre Dame to several successful seasons.
- Ivey’s coaching style is centered around player development and building strong team relationships.
- She is married, has a son who plays basketball at Purdue, and is active on social media, where she shares insights into her life and career.
Niele Ivey – From WNBA Star to College Basketball Coach
Niele Ivey’s basketball journey began long before she became the head coach at Notre Dame. Born on September 24, 1977, Ivey was an exceptional player even during her college years. She played for the University of Notre Dame, where she became an All-American point guard and helped lead the team to its first NCAA Championship in 2001. After college, she went on to have a successful career in the WNBA, playing for teams like the Indiana Fever, Detroit Shock, and Phoenix Mercury.
Ivey’s transition to coaching was a natural one, as she always had a passion for developing talent. Her coaching career started as an assistant at Notre Dame before she moved on to the Memphis Grizzlies, where she worked with NBA players. In April 2020, Ivey was named head coach of Notre Dame’s women’s basketball team, becoming a trailblazer for Black women in the coaching world. Under her leadership, the team has seen significant success, including winning their first regular season ACC title in 2024.
Niele Ivey’s Leadership at Notre Dame
As head coach of Notre Dame’s women’s basketball team, Ivey has made her mark not only by continuing the team’s tradition of excellence but by also adding her unique coaching style. She emphasizes building strong, positive relationships with her players, which has helped foster a culture of teamwork and success. Her ability to connect with players and her focus on player development are some of the key factors that have contributed to Notre Dame’s consistent performance in the NCAA tournament.
In the 2023-24 season, Notre Dame made their third consecutive Sweet 16 appearance under Ivey’s leadership, showcasing her ability to guide the team through tough competition. With an overall record of 89-32 as of 2024, it’s clear that Ivey is on her way to becoming one of the most successful coaches in NCAA women’s basketball.
How Much Does Niele Ivey Make?
While exact figures for Ivey’s salary have not been disclosed, it’s known that head coaches at major universities like Notre Dame typically earn significant salaries. College basketball coaches’ salaries can range from several hundred thousand dollars to over a million per year, depending on the program’s prestige and success. Ivey, as the head coach of a team with such a rich history in women’s basketball, likely earns a competitive salary in line with her experience and achievements.
Is Niele Ivey Married?
Yes, Niele Ivey is married. She has a supportive family, including her husband and their son, Jaden Ivey, who is a talented basketball player at Purdue University. Ivey often shares glimpses of her family life on social media, where she emphasizes the importance of family support in her career. Despite the busy nature of her job, Ivey has managed to maintain a healthy balance between her professional responsibilities and family life.
Niele Ivey’s Height and Stats
Standing at 5 feet 7 inches tall (1.70 meters), Ivey’s height was typical for a point guard during her playing days. During her career at Notre Dame, she became known for her exceptional court vision, playmaking ability, and leadership. Ivey’s stats as a player are impressive, with over 1,000 points scored at Notre Dame, along with numerous assists and steals. In the WNBA, she was a solid contributor, helping her teams in multiple seasons with key plays and leadership.
Niele Ivey on Instagram
Like many modern public figures, Ivey is active on social media, particularly Instagram. Her account (@irishcoachivey) provides fans with updates on her coaching career, team accomplishments, and personal life. It’s also a platform where she shares motivational content and promotes the importance of empowering women in sports. Her presence on social media has helped her connect with a wider audience and build a supportive online community.
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Niele Ivey |
| Born | September 24, 1977 |
| Coaching Career | Head coach of Notre Dame since 2020 |
| WNBA Career | Played for Indiana Fever, Detroit Shock, Phoenix Mercury |
| Notable Achievements | First Black woman head coach at Notre Dame, led team to 2024 ACC title |
| Son | Jaden Ivey, basketball player at Purdue |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (1.70 meters) |
| @irishcoachivey |
Niele Ivey’s Impact on Women’s Sports
Niele Ivey’s journey from WNBA star to historic college basketball coach is a source of inspiration for many young athletes, especially women of color who aspire to break into coaching. Her story is proof that perseverance, talent, and leadership can lead to extraordinary accomplishments in sports. She is not only changing the game for Notre Dame but also for future generations of female basketball players and coaches.
Her work has brought attention to the importance of diversity and inclusion in sports, and her success is a reminder that opportunities for women in coaching are expanding. As a mother, coach, and role model, Ivey continues to pave the way for others to follow in her footsteps.
FAQ
How old is Niele Ivey?
Niele Ivey is 47 years old, having been born on September 24, 1977.
How much does Niele Ivey make?
While her exact salary has not been publicly disclosed, head coaches at major universities like Notre Dame typically earn competitive salaries, often ranging from several hundred thousand to over a million dollars annually.
Is Niele Ivey married?
Yes, Niele Ivey is married. She has a husband and a son, Jaden Ivey, who plays basketball at Purdue University.
What is Niele Ivey’s coaching record?
As of 2024, Niele Ivey has a coaching record of 89-32, with notable achievements including leading Notre Dame to a regular season ACC title and their third consecutive Sweet 16 appearance in the NCAA tournament.
What teams did Niele Ivey play for in the WNBA?
Niele Ivey played for the Indiana Fever, Detroit Shock, and Phoenix Mercury during her WNBA career.
Where can I follow Niele Ivey on social media?
Niele Ivey is active on Instagram under the handle @irishcoachivey, where she shares updates on her coaching career and personal life.