A New Era Begins: Baylor Bears Women’s Basketball Welcomes Head Coach Niele Ivey with Hope and Heart After Leadership Shake-Up – Full Details
In a bold and transformative move, Baylor University has ushered in a new era for its women’s basketball program by appointing Niele Ivey as the new head coach. Following a period of turbulence and leadership changes, the hiring of Ivey brings a renewed sense of hope, heart, and direction to a program with a storied legacy.
Baylor’s decision to bring in Ivey comes after an unexpected leadership shake-up that saw the departure of former head coach Nicki Collen. Collen, who succeeded Kim Mulkey in 2021, faced challenges living up to the enormous expectations set by her predecessor. Despite some promising moments, inconsistencies in performance, particularly in postseason play, and struggles with player development and retention created unease within the program and its passionate fan base. After a season that fell short of both internal and public expectations, Baylor’s athletic department made the difficult decision to initiate change.
Enter Niele Ivey, a name synonymous with excellence, leadership, and resilience in women’s basketball. Ivey brings with her a wealth of experience, both as a player and a coach. A former standout at Notre Dame, she helped lead the Fighting Irish to a national championship as a player in 2001 and later served as a key assistant under Hall of Fame coach Muffet McGraw, contributing to multiple Final Four runs and another national title in 2018. Most recently, Ivey took the helm at Notre Dame as head coach in 2020 and quickly established herself as a force in the ACC with a coaching style defined by grit, compassion, and strategic brilliance.
Baylor’s athletic director, Mack Rhoades, emphasized Ivey’s alignment with Baylor’s values and her proven ability to connect with student-athletes both on and off the court. “We wanted someone who could inspire, develop, and lead with authenticity,” said Rhoades. “Niele is that leader. She brings a championship mindset, a fierce commitment to excellence, and a heart for mentorship.”
The news of Ivey’s hiring was met with widespread excitement across the Baylor community. Former players, fans, and alumni took to social media to express their optimism about the program’s future. The current roster also appears energized by the shift, with several players already speaking publicly about their enthusiasm for Ivey’s arrival and the direction she intends to take the team.
Ivey, during her introductory press conference, made it clear that her vision for Baylor is both ambitious and deeply personal. “Baylor has a rich tradition, and I am honored to build on that legacy,” she said. “I’m here to empower our young women, to compete at the highest level, and to foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and joy. This is more than basketball—it’s about building strong, confident leaders.”
Beyond X’s and O’s, Ivey’s leadership style focuses on creating a family-like atmosphere. Her approach combines toughness with compassion, something many believe Baylor needs to regain its championship form. Her reputation for player development, especially in preparing athletes for the WNBA and international play, also aligns perfectly with Baylor’s goals to remain a top-tier destination for elite talent.
As spring practices begin under Ivey’s watchful eye, the atmosphere around the Ferrell Center is electric. There’s a palpable shift—not just in coaching philosophy but in energy and identity. The Baylor Bears are no longer simply trying to replicate the past; they are actively forging a new future.
With Niele Ivey at the helm, Baylor women’s basketball stands on the cusp of something special. Her arrival signals not just a coaching change, but the dawn of a new chapter filled with hope, heart, and a deep belief in what’s possible when strong women lead with purpose. The Bears are back on the hunt, and this time, they’re fueled by more than legacy—they’re
driven by vision.