Inside Notre Dame Women’s Basketball: Niele Ivey Discusses Hannah Hidalgo, Transfer Portal Moves, and Building a Winning Team Culture
Niele Ivey, head coach of the Notre Dame women’s basketball team, recently shared insightful thoughts on the evolving dynamics within her program, highlighting key developments such as the addition of standout guard Hannah Hidalgo, the impact of the transfer portal, and the core team culture that defines Notre Dame basketball. Her comments paint a vivid picture of how the program is adapting and growing in a highly competitive collegiate environment.
Ivey’s journey with Notre Dame has been marked by steady growth and an emphasis on both player development and fostering a resilient team identity. When asked about the arrival of Hannah Hidalgo, she expressed genuine enthusiasm, emphasizing Hidalgo’s versatility and skill set. Hannah, a transfer from another competitive program, brings a fresh energy and depth to the team’s backcourt. Ivey explained that Hidalgo is not only a dynamic scorer but also a player with a strong basketball IQ, capable of making her teammates better. This is a crucial element for Ivey, who values selflessness and high basketball IQ as pillars of her coaching philosophy.
The transfer portal has become an increasingly important aspect of college basketball recruiting and roster building. Ivey acknowledged that navigating this new landscape requires strategic thinking and adaptability. Unlike traditional recruiting, which often focuses on younger players coming directly from high school, the portal allows coaches to add experienced players who can contribute immediately. For Notre Dame, this means balancing the infusion of new talent with maintaining a cohesive team dynamic. Ivey stressed that bringing in transfers is about more than just talent — it’s about character, fit, and the willingness to buy into the team culture.
In discussing how the transfer portal affects team culture, Ivey was candid about the challenges and opportunities it presents. Integrating transfers means welcoming players who may have had different roles, experiences, and expectations at their previous schools. The challenge is to help these players adapt to Notre Dame’s style and standards quickly while also honoring their individual strengths. Ivey has built a culture based on trust, accountability, and mutual respect, which she believes is key to making transitions smoother and building team chemistry. Her focus on culture is not just about wins but about preparing her players for life beyond basketball.
Ivey also reflected on how the coaching staff evaluates potential transfers, looking beyond statistics and highlight reels. They conduct thorough background checks and interviews to understand a player’s mindset, work ethic, and ability to contribute to the group dynamic. This vetting process ensures that the new additions will complement the existing roster and the team’s values. The goal is to create a unified group where every member feels valued and motivated to push toward collective goals.
When asked about how the current Notre Dame roster looks in terms of blending incoming transfers like Hidalgo with homegrown talent, Ivey expressed confidence in the team’s depth and versatility. She described the roster as balanced, with a mix of experienced players and young talent eager to prove themselves. This balance, she said, is essential for navigating the long season ahead, where injuries, form fluctuations, and tactical adjustments are inevitable. The ability to rotate players and adapt lineups gives Notre Dame a competitive edge.
Ivey also highlighted the importance of leadership within the team, both from the coaching staff and from veteran players. She pointed out that leadership is not confined to captains or starters but can emerge from anyone who embodies the team’s values and sets an example through their work ethic and attitude. This decentralized leadership approach fosters a strong sense of ownership among players, helping to maintain a positive environment even during challenging times.
The culture that Ivey is cultivating at Notre Dame prioritizes hard work, resilience, and a commitment to continuous improvement. She talked about how these values are instilled from day one, through practices, meetings, and team activities. The coaching staff works hard to create a family-like atmosphere where players support each other on and off the court. This holistic approach is designed to enhance performance and personal growth, preparing players for success in basketball and beyond.
Ivey’s philosophy also includes empowering players to take ownership of their development. She encourages them to be proactive about their training, nutrition, and mental health. Recognizing the pressures that come with being student-athletes, especially in high-profile programs like Notre Dame, the staff provides resources and support systems to help players manage stress and maintain balance. This comprehensive care is part of what Ivey believes separates Notre Dame’s program from others and contributes to sustained success.
In terms of on-court strategy, Ivey touched on the flexibility and adaptability of the team’s playing style. With a diverse roster that includes sharp shooters, athletic defenders, and crafty playmakers like Hidalgo, Notre Dame can adjust its approach based on opponents and game situations. Ivey emphasized that this versatility makes the team unpredictable and difficult to prepare for, a vital advantage in a competitive conference. The team’s defensive intensity and offensive fluidity are reflections of the rigorous training and clear communication that the coaching staff demands.
Looking ahead, Ivey expressed optimism about the upcoming season, acknowledging the challenges that come with high expectations but also excitement about the team’s potential. She is particularly proud of how the players have embraced the program’s values and how new additions have integrated into the group. The blend of returning veterans and transfers creates a unique dynamic that Ivey believes will fuel the team’s drive for success.
Ivey also spoke about the broader goals for Notre Dame women’s basketball — not only competing for championships but also building a legacy of excellence and integrity. She wants the program to be a destination for top talent who value winning and character equally. This vision extends to fostering relationships with alumni and the Notre Dame community, creating a network that supports players long after they leave campus.
One aspect Ivey touched on was the impact of social media and increased visibility of women’s basketball. She sees it as a positive force that brings more attention to the sport and provides opportunities for players to build their personal brands. However, she also cautioned that players must be mindful of their public image and how they represent the program. Education around responsible social media use is part of the team’s culture, helping players navigate the digital landscape with confidence.
Throughout the conversation, Ivey’s passion for coaching and her commitment to her players were evident. She spoke warmly about the daily interactions, the growth she witnesses, and the collective effort that goes into each practice and game. Her leadership style combines high expectations with empathy, fostering an environment where players feel challenged but supported.
In closing, Ivey reiterated the importance of team culture as the foundation of Notre Dame’s program. She believes that talent alone does not guarantee success; it’s the shared values, trust, and accountability that truly set a team apart. As the program continues to evolve with new players like Hannah Hidalgo and others from the transfer portal, this culture will remain the guiding force. Notre Dame women’s basketball under Niele Ivey is not just building a competitive team; it’s building a lasting community that exemplifies excellence both on and off the court.
