In the world of college basketball, few moments are as emotionally charged as when a player decides to step into the professional arena. For Madeline Westbeld, the news of her entry into the WNBA Draft marks not only the next step in her career but also the culmination of a remarkable journey at the University of Notre Dame. After four years of dedication, hard work, and perseverance, Westbeld has officially declared for the 2025 WNBA Draft, sending shockwaves through the college basketball community and inspiring countless fans in the process. Along with her announcement, she penned a heartfelt note to her Fighting Irish family, reflecting on her time at Notre Dame, her love for the program, and the incredible experiences she had both on and off the court. Her decision to pursue a career in the WNBA is not just a personal milestone, but also a testament to the unwavering support she received from the Notre Dame community.
A Legacy Built on Excellence
Madeline Westbeld’s decision to enter the WNBA Draft is not just a reflection of her individual talent and hard work, but also the legacy of excellence that she has been a part of during her time at Notre Dame. A versatile forward with a dynamic skill set, Westbeld made an immediate impact upon her arrival at Notre Dame, showcasing her ability to score, rebound, and defend with equal prowess. Throughout her career, she became one of the most consistent and reliable players on the team, embodying the work ethic and competitive spirit that has come to define the Notre Dame women’s basketball program under head coach Niele Ivey.
From her first game on campus, Westbeld showed that she was ready to compete at the highest level. Whether it was her scoring ability from all areas of the court, her leadership in the locker room, or her relentless pursuit of excellence, Westbeld became a cornerstone of the Fighting Irish’s success. She was known for her strong basketball IQ, her ability to read the game, and her unselfish playmaking. Over her four years at Notre Dame, she consistently played a crucial role in the team’s deep runs in the NCAA Tournament, contributing to multiple Final Four appearances and an overall elevation of the program’s stature within the women’s college basketball landscape.
Westbeld’s versatility made her a matchup nightmare for opposing teams. Standing at 6’2” with a well-rounded skill set that included a reliable mid-range jump shot, exceptional passing, and the ability to defend both inside and on the perimeter, she proved herself as one of the most well-rounded players in college basketball. Her consistent ability to perform under pressure, combined with her resilience, quickly earned her respect among her teammates, coaches, and competitors alike.
A Heartfelt Goodbye to Notre Dame
Westbeld’s decision to declare for the WNBA Draft was met with an outpouring of support and admiration from the Notre Dame community. In a heartfelt note to the Fighting Irish faithful, Westbeld took the time to express her deep gratitude for the experience she had at Notre Dame. The letter was both an emotional farewell to the place that had shaped her into the player and person she is today, and a celebration of the countless memories she made during her time on campus.
“Notre Dame has been home to me for the last four years. I cannot begin to express how much I have grown as a person and as a player because of this program and the incredible people I have had the privilege of working with,” Westbeld wrote in the opening lines of her letter. “This journey has been filled with so many highs and lows, and it is thanks to the support of my teammates, coaches, and the Notre Dame family that I am able to take this next step in my career. I will forever be grateful for my time here and for all the memories we created together.”
Her letter continued with an acknowledgment of the unique bond she shares with her teammates. She reflected on the experiences that built lasting relationships, from grueling practices to celebratory moments after hard-fought victories. “The memories I have with my teammates are ones that will last a lifetime. We’ve been through so much together, and I will carry those moments with me wherever I go. The connection we share goes far beyond basketball.”
Westbeld’s gratitude also extended to the fans who supported her and the Fighting Irish every step of the way. “The Notre Dame fanbase is unlike any other,” she wrote. “The passion, energy, and loyalty of the Fighting Irish faithful have been a constant source of inspiration for me. Whether it was packed crowds at Purcell Pavilion or the countless messages of encouragement, I have felt the love of this community every single day. You’ve all made my experience here even more special, and for that, I am truly thankful.”
A Path to the WNBA
While Westbeld’s time at Notre Dame was defined by success and a relentless pursuit of excellence, her decision to enter the WNBA Draft signals the beginning of a new chapter in her career. The WNBA, the premier professional women’s basketball league in the United States, has long been a dream destination for talented athletes like Westbeld, who have dedicated themselves to the game from a young age. Throughout her career at Notre Dame, Westbeld demonstrated that she has the skills, mindset, and potential to succeed at the next level.
Entering the WNBA Draft is no small decision. The transition from college basketball to the professional ranks comes with a new set of challenges, including heightened competition, increased expectations, and the pressure of representing oneself as a professional athlete. However, Westbeld’s self-assurance, strong work ethic, and competitive nature make her well-equipped for this challenge.
During her time at Notre Dame, she played under some of the brightest minds in women’s basketball, including Coach Niele Ivey, who herself made a significant impact as both a player and a coach in the WNBA. Ivey’s mentorship and guidance helped Westbeld refine her game and develop into a versatile forward capable of contributing in many different facets of the game. As Westbeld embarks on her professional career, she carries with her not only the lessons learned from her coaches but also the pride of being part of one of the most successful and storied women’s basketball programs in the country.
The WNBA is a league filled with tremendous talent, and Westbeld’s entry into the draft will surely spark interest from a variety of teams seeking her skill set. Her ability to stretch the floor with her shooting, her poise under pressure, and her leadership qualities make her a valuable asset to any team in the league. As she prepares for the draft, there will be a lot of speculation about where she might land, but one thing is certain: Madeline Westbeld has all the tools necessary to thrive in the WNBA and to make an immediate impact in the league.
Reflecting on a College Career
Looking back on her time at Notre Dame, Westbeld’s career is one marked by growth, leadership, and a commitment to her team and her school. Her versatility on the court was matched by her ability to be a vocal leader, encouraging her teammates and setting an example through her work ethic. Whether she was contributing as a scorer, playmaker, or defender, Westbeld embraced every challenge thrown her way, always striving to be the best version of herself for her team.
Her performance on the court was undoubtedly a key factor in Notre Dame’s success over the years. However, her impact also extended beyond basketball. Westbeld consistently represented the values of Notre Dame through her involvement in the community, her dedication to academics, and her leadership within the locker room. She became a role model for younger players and an invaluable mentor to her teammates, always willing to share her experiences and wisdom.
In addition to her on-court success, Westbeld’s academic achievements also deserve recognition. Throughout her time at Notre Dame, she balanced the rigorous demands of college basketball with her commitment to her studies. A well-rounded student-athlete, Westbeld excelled in the classroom, earning accolades for her academic achievements while also dedicating herself to the sport she loves.
Moving Forward: A Bright Future Ahead
As Madeline Westbeld moves toward the next chapter of her basketball journey, there is no doubt that her future is incredibly bright. The WNBA Draft will provide her with the opportunity to showcase her talents on a national stage, but her legacy at Notre Dame is already secure. She leaves behind a lasting impression on the Fighting Irish program, one defined by leadership, excellence, and a deep love for her team and school.
Westbeld’s decision to declare for the WNBA Draft is not just a personal achievement—it is a moment for all of Notre Dame to celebrate. Her journey is a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and the unwavering support of a community that believes in its athletes. As she steps into the next chapter of her professional career, Madeline Westbeld will undoubtedly continue to inspire, not just those at Notre Dame, but fans of women’s basketball everywhere. Her story is just beginning, and the future holds limitless possibilities for this extraordinary athlete.
