Leah Macy Chooses Notre Dame Over SEC, Big Ten Powers.
Notre Dame women’s basketball secured a major recruiting victory with the commitment of five-star forward Leah Macy, the No. 19 overall prospect in ESPN’s 2025 class. The highly sought-after recruit chose the Fighting Irish over top programs, including South Carolina, Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio State.
Macy, a 6-foot-3 forward from Louisville, Kentucky, has been a dominant force at the high school level, known for her versatility, scoring ability, and rebounding prowess. Her commitment strengthens an already promising 2025 class for Notre Dame, as head coach Niele Ivey continues to elevate the program’s recruiting success.
“Notre Dame felt like home,” Macy said following her announcement. “The coaching staff, the academics, and the culture really stood out to me. I’m excited to be part of something special.”
Macy’s decision is a significant win for Notre Dame, especially considering the level of competition in her recruitment. South Carolina, a perennial national title contender, and Kentucky, her in-state school, were strong contenders. Indiana and Ohio State, two of the Big Ten’s top programs, also made a strong push. However, the Irish’s player development and program stability helped seal the deal.
With Macy in the fold, Notre Dame adds a high-impact forward who can contribute immediately upon arrival. She brings a unique blend of physicality and finesse, making her an ideal fit for Ivey’s system. Macy’s ability to stretch the floor and dominate the boards makes her a valuable asset for the Irish as they aim to remain among the nation’s elite programs.
Notre Dame’s recruiting momentum continues to build, and Macy’s commitment signals that the Irish remain a major player in the women’s basketball landscape.