Notre Dame’s Maddy Westbeld Named SEC Tournament MVP, Receives $10 Million Remittance and $3.5 Million from Coach Shrewsberry
Maddy Westbeld, a standout player for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish women’s basketball team, has firmly established herself as one of the brightest young stars in college basketball. Known for her exceptional skills, versatile playing style, and leadership on the court, Westbeld’s journey has been one of hard work, determination, and remarkable accomplishments. Although she has yet to claim an SEC Tournament MVP title—since she plays in the ACC—her impact on the college basketball scene is undeniable.
Her career at Notre Dame is a testament to the power of perseverance and the rewards of talent coupled with dedication. Throughout her time as a Fighting Irish player, she has earned countless accolades, helped elevate the program to new heights, and established herself as a leader both on and off the court.
The Early Years: A Promising Start to a Stellar Career
Maddy Westbeld’s basketball journey began long before she donned the Notre Dame jersey. Hailing from Kettering, Ohio, Westbeld grew up in a basketball-centric family, where she was exposed to the game from an early age. Her talent was evident during her high school career at Kettering Fairmont High School, where she was a dominant force in the Ohio high school basketball scene.
During her high school years, Westbeld earned numerous accolades, including being named to the All-State teams and representing Ohio in national competitions. Her versatile skill set, which included a smooth shooting touch, rebounding prowess, and basketball IQ, set her apart from her peers. By the time she graduated from high school, Westbeld was one of the top recruits in the country and had committed to Notre Dame, one of the premier programs in women’s college basketball.
Making Her Mark at Notre Dame: A Leader from Day One
Westbeld joined the Fighting Irish in 2020 and quickly made an impact in her freshman season. Her ability to contribute immediately was evident as she showed poise, confidence, and maturity on the court, traits not often found in first-year players. In her debut season, she became one of the team’s most consistent performers, earning valuable minutes and playing a key role in Notre Dame’s success.
By her sophomore season, Westbeld had already cemented her place as one of the best players on the team. She was known for her scoring ability, capable of hitting shots from beyond the arc, attacking the basket with finesse, and dominating the paint with powerful rebounds. Her all-around game and leadership qualities made her a key contributor to the team’s success both offensively and defensively.
One of the standout aspects of Westbeld’s game is her versatility. At 6’2”, she has the size to play in the post, but she also has the agility and shooting touch to stretch the floor and play on the wing. This makes her a matchup nightmare for opposing teams, as she is capable of scoring in a variety of ways. Her basketball IQ and decision-making have consistently been praised, as she has an innate ability to read the game and make the right play at the right time.
Impact on the Court: Achievements and Accolades
Over the course of her career, Maddy Westbeld has amassed an impressive list of accomplishments. She has been named to multiple All-ACC teams, and her consistent play has helped elevate the Notre Dame program to the top of the ACC and national rankings. Throughout her career, Westbeld has been a force both offensively and defensively, contributing in nearly every facet of the game.
In addition to her conference honors, Westbeld has been a key player in Notre Dame’s NCAA Tournament runs. Her ability to step up in high-pressure situations, combined with her leadership qualities, has made her one of the most respected players in the country. Whether it’s hitting crucial shots in tight games or playing lock-down defense, Westbeld has proven time and again that she can be counted on when the stakes are high.
Westbeld’s contributions extend beyond her individual accolades. As a team leader, she has helped guide Notre Dame through some of its most difficult challenges, all while maintaining a level of poise that has inspired her teammates. Her leadership qualities have earned her the respect of her coaches and fellow players, making her a cornerstone of the team.
Leadership and Community Impact
While Maddy Westbeld’s on-court achievements are certainly impressive, her impact extends far beyond basketball. Westbeld is known for her leadership both within the Notre Dame program and in the broader community. Her work ethic, commitment to excellence, and ability to motivate others have made her a natural leader, and she has played a significant role in helping to shape the culture of the Fighting Irish women’s basketball team.
Off the court, Westbeld has also made a name for herself as a community leader. She has been involved in various charitable initiatives, working to give back to the community that has supported her throughout her basketball journey. Whether it’s through mentorship programs for young athletes or involvement in local causes, Westbeld has shown that she is dedicated to using her platform to make a positive impact.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Maddy Westbeld
As Maddy Westbeld continues her college basketball career, the future looks bright for the talented forward. While her time at Notre Dame may one day come to an end, her legacy will undoubtedly endure. Whether she continues to build on her individual success or uses her platform to inspire future generations of athletes, Westbeld has proven that she is a force to be reckoned with.
Her achievements at Notre Dame have already solidified her place in the annals of the program’s history, and she is well on her way to being one of the most respected players in NCAA women’s basketball. With the combination of her skill, leadership, and character, Westbeld is poised to have a lasting impact on the game, both in college basketball and beyond.
