Niele Ivey, the head coach of the Notre Dame women’s basketball team, has added another remarkable achievement to her already illustrious career. Serving as an assistant coach for the USA Basketball U19 Women’s World Cup team, Ivey helped guide the squad to a gold medal at the 2023 FIBA U19 World Cup in Madrid, Spain. The victory not only underscores her growing reputation as one of the game’s brightest coaching minds but also reinforces her ability to develop and inspire young talent on an international stage.
The USA U19 team entered the tournament as heavy favorites, boasting a roster filled with some of the most promising young players in the country. Under the leadership of head coach Joni Taylor (Texas A&M) and assistant coaches Ivey and Aaron Johnston (South Dakota State), the team delivered a dominant performance, going undefeated throughout the competition. Their journey culminated in a thrilling 69-66 victory over Spain in the championship game, securing the gold medal and extending USA Basketball’s legacy of excellence at the youth level.
Ivey’s contributions were instrumental in the team’s success. Known for her player development skills and tactical acumen, she played a key role in mentoring the young athletes, many of whom are expected to become future stars in college basketball and beyond. Her ability to connect with players and instill confidence in high-pressure situations was evident throughout the tournament, particularly in the tightly contested final against a talented Spanish squad.
For Ivey, this gold medal holds special significance. As a former standout player at Notre Dame and a WNBA champion with the Detroit Shock, she has experienced success at every level of the game. Transitioning into coaching, she quickly established herself as a rising star, first as an assistant under the legendary Muffet McGraw before taking over as Notre Dame’s head coach in 2020.
Her involvement with USA Basketball is not new—Ivey previously served as an assistant coach for the 2021 USA Women’s AmeriCup team, which also won gold. However, this U19 World Cup victory further solidifies her reputation as a coach capable of excelling on the international stage. Her experience playing and coaching at the highest levels allows her to relate to athletes in a unique way, blending competitive fire with a deep understanding of the game’s nuances.
One of the most rewarding aspects of coaching at the U19 level is the opportunity to work with the next generation of basketball talent. The 2023 USA roster featured several players who are already making waves in college basketball, including Hannah Hidalgo (Notre Dame’s own rising star), JuJu Watkins (USC), and Madison Booker (Texas). Ivey’s influence was particularly notable in the growth of these players throughout the tournament, as she emphasized defensive intensity, unselfish play, and mental toughness—hallmarks of her coaching philosophy.
Hidalgo, who played under Ivey at Notre Dame during the 2022-23 season, was one of the team’s standout performers, showcasing her elite defensive skills and playmaking ability. The fact that Ivey was able to coach her in both college and international settings speaks to the strong player-coach relationships she fosters.
Winning a gold medal in any international competition is no small feat, and the road to victory was not without challenges. The team faced stiff competition from Spain, France, and Canada, requiring adjustments and composure in critical moments. Ivey’s leadership was pivotal in keeping the players focused and motivated, especially in the championship game, where the USA had to withstand a late surge from the host nation.
Her ability to remain calm under pressure and make strategic in-game decisions reflects the same poise she displayed as a player. As a point guard for Notre Dame, Ivey led the Fighting Irish to their first national championship in 2001, earning Final Four Most Outstanding Player honors. Now, as a coach, she is passing on those same winning traits to her players.
Ivey’s success with USA Basketball is a tremendous boost for Notre Dame’s program. Recruits take notice when a coach has proven herself on the international stage, and this gold medal adds to Ivey’s growing list of accomplishments. Her ability to develop talent and win at the highest levels only enhances Notre Dame’s reputation as a destination for elite players.
Moreover, the experience she gained coaching against top international competition will undoubtedly benefit the Fighting Irish in the upcoming college season. Facing different styles of play and adapting to various strategies is invaluable for any coach, and Ivey’s time with Team USA will only sharpen her tactical approach.
At just 45 years old, Ivey’s coaching career is still in its early stages, yet she has already achieved what many coaches spend a lifetime pursuing. From winning a national championship as a player to leading Notre Dame as head coach and now capturing gold with USA Basketball, her trajectory suggests even greater accomplishments lie ahead.
As she returns to South Bend, Ivey will look to build on this momentum, using the lessons learned from the U19 World Cup to elevate her team. Notre Dame fans have every reason to be excited—their program is led by a coach who knows what it takes to win at the highest level, both domestically and internationally.
Niele Ivey’s gold medal with the USA U19 team is more than just another accolade—it’s a testament to her coaching brilliance, leadership, and dedication to the game. Whether mentoring young players on the international stage or guiding Notre Dame through the competitive landscape of college basketball, Ivey continues to prove why she is one of the most respected figures in women’s basketball today.
As she adds this latest triumph to her legacy, one thing is clear: Niele Ivey’s impact on the sport is far from over. With her passion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence, the future looks brighter than ever—for her, for Team USA, and for Notre Dame women’s basketball.
