Notre Dame women’s basketball revealed as No. 3 seed in 2025 NCAA Tournament
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish women’s basketball team has been designated as a No. 3 seed in the 2025 NCAA Tournament, following a season marked by significant achievements and late-season challenges.
Season Overview
Under the leadership of head coach Niele Ivey, the Irish concluded the regular season with a 26-5 record. Their performance included a 19-game winning streak and a period where they were ranked No. 1 nationally. Key victories over top-10 opponents, such as Texas, underscored their potential as championship contenders.
However, the team faced setbacks late in the season, losing three of their last five games to NC State, Florida State, and Duke. These defeats contributed to their drop from a potential No. 1 seed to a No. 3 seed in the tournament.
NCAA Tournament Seeding and Matchups
As a No. 3 seed in the Birmingham Regional, Notre Dame is set to host the first and second-round games at Purcell Pavilion. Their opening matchup is against the No. 14 seed Stephen F. Austin Ladyjacks, champions of the Southland Conference, who enter the tournament on a 15-game winning streak.
The South Bend pod also includes No. 6 seed Michigan and the winner of the First Four game between Iowa State and Princeton. Should the Irish advance, they could face Michigan in the second round, setting up a potential rivalry game.
Potential Path Forward
If Notre Dame progresses beyond the initial rounds, they may encounter familiar foes in the Sweet Sixteen and beyond. Notably, No. 2 seed NC State and No. 1 seed Texas are positioned in their region, both of whom have previously defeated the Irish this season. Overcoming these challenges would be crucial for a deep tournament run.
Team Dynamics and Key Players
The Irish’s backcourt has been instrumental in their success. Graduate student Olivia Miles, senior Sonia Citron, and sophomore Hannah Hidalgo have consistently delivered strong performances, providing leadership and skill on the court.
Despite the late-season setbacks, the team’s resilience and depth position them well for the tournament. Their ability to adapt and strategize against high-caliber opponents will be vital in the coming games.
Notre Dame’s journey to the No. 3 seed reflects a season of highs and lows. Their upcoming matchup against Stephen F. Austin on March 21 at 2 p.m. at Purcell Pavilion marks the beginning of their quest for a national title. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the Irish can harness their early-season momentum and navigate the challenges ahead to achieve tournament success.