Madeline Westbeld, a standout forward for the Notre Dame women’s basketball team, has made headlines by declaring her long-term commitment to the Fighting Irish, signaling her intent to stay with the program until the end of her playing days. While not literally a lifetime deal, her announcement to return for a fifth and final year—granted by the NCAA due to the COVID-19 pandemic—sent a clear message about her loyalty and passion for the team.
Westbeld, who has been a consistent and pivotal contributor for Notre Dame, is coming off a stellar senior season where she averaged 14.4 points and 8.7 rebounds per game. Her performance earned her Second Team All-ACC honors and a place on the ACC Tournament First Team. With 1,550 career points and 881 rebounds, she is already among the most accomplished players in program history and is poised to finish her college career as one of the top statistical leaders.
Her decision to stay is especially crucial for a team that has experienced player departures, including KK Bransford and Nat Marshall entering the transfer portal. Westbeld’s return brings leadership, skill, and a deep understanding of the team’s culture—an invaluable asset as the Irish prepare for another competitive season.
She emphasized her reason for staying is rooted in her desire to build a lasting legacy and to continue inspiring both her teammates and the Notre Dame community. With coach Niele Ivey’s full support and key teammates like Hannah Hidalgo and Sonia Citron also returning, Notre Dame looks primed for a strong run next season with Westbeld leading the charge.
