SOUTH BEND, Ind. – In a move that has thrilled Notre Dame fans and sent ripples of excitement through the women’s basketball world, former Fighting Irish star Skylar Diggins-Smith is returning to South Bend. Diggins-Smith, a legendary player and a cornerstone of Notre Dame’s success, has accepted the position of Director of Player Personnel for the Notre Dame women’s basketball program.
This homecoming marks a powerful new chapter in the legacy of one of Notre Dame’s most iconic athletes. Diggins-Smith, a South Bend native and one of the most decorated players in the program’s history, brings not only her vast experience and basketball IQ but also her deep-rooted passion for the university and community that helped shape her. Her return signals a renewed era of tradition, mentorship, and excellence in the program.
Diggins-Smith’s connection to Notre Dame runs deep. During her collegiate career from 2009 to 2013, she led the Fighting Irish to three consecutive Final Four appearances and two national championship games. She finished her time in South Bend as the school’s all-time leader in points, steals, and double-figure scoring games. Known for her fierce competitiveness, leadership on the court, and ability to elevate the play of those around her, Diggins-Smith became the face of Notre Dame women’s basketball during a period of tremendous success under coach Muffet McGraw.
After college, Diggins-Smith was selected third overall in the 2013 WNBA Draft by the Tulsa Shock (now the Dallas Wings) and has since enjoyed a stellar professional career. A multi-time WNBA All-Star and Olympic gold medalist, she has built a reputation as one of the league’s most tenacious and skilled point guards. Beyond her athletic achievements, she has also been a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment, equity in sports, and mental health awareness.
In her new role as Director of Player Personnel, Diggins-Smith will serve as a vital link between current players and the coaching staff, helping to guide personal and professional development both on and off the court. Her responsibilities will include player mentorship, alumni engagement, and assisting with recruiting strategies. Given her stature in the sport and personal journey through the collegiate and professional ranks, she offers invaluable insight and inspiration to the next generation of Fighting Irish stars.
Head coach Niele Ivey, herself a Notre Dame legend and former WNBA player, expressed her excitement about the addition. “Skylar is family. She’s a champion, a leader, and an example of what Notre Dame basketball is all about,” Ivey said. “Her return means the world to our program and to me personally. She knows what it takes to succeed at the highest levels, and her impact on our players will be immediate and lasting.”
For Diggins-Smith, the move is both professional and deeply personal. “This place means everything to me,” she said in a statement. “Notre Dame shaped me into the woman and athlete I am today. To come back and help shape the next generation is an honor I don’t take lightly. I’m excited to pour into these young women, to give back to this program, and to be a part of something special again.”
The timing of her return couldn’t be better. Notre Dame is on the cusp of championship contention once again, with a young, talented roster and a coaching staff determined to bring the program back to the top of the college basketball world. With Diggins-Smith now part of the leadership team, the Fighting Irish are poised to continue building on their storied legacy.
As the echoes of “Go Irish” ring through South Bend, one thing is clear: Skylar Diggins-Smith is home—and her presence promises to elevate Notre Dame women’s basketball to even g
reater heights.