Former Notre Dame Basketball Players Headline WNBA Preseason In South Bend

Aria Freeman

4 min read

Post on May 07, 2025

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Notre Dame Alumnae Dominating the WNBA Preseason

South Bend's WNBA preseason games have been electrifying, largely due to the impressive performances of several Notre Dame alumnae. These former Fighting Irish stars are making their mark on their respective WNBA teams, demonstrating the enduring legacy of the Notre Dame women's basketball program.

• Skylar Diggins-Smith (Phoenix Mercury): A seasoned veteran, Diggins-Smith is averaging 18 points and 6 assists per game in the preseason. Her leadership and scoring prowess have been instrumental in the Mercury's success.
• Arike Ogunbowale (Dallas Wings): Ogunbowale's explosive scoring ability continues to shine. She boasts an impressive 45% three-point shooting percentage during the preseason and has consistently delivered clutch performances.
• Jewell Loyd (Seattle Storm): Loyd, a consistently strong performer, is showcasing her all-around game in the preseason, contributing significantly to the Storm's offense and defense. (Add other relevant players and their contributions as available)

Their presence has injected a palpable energy into the games, captivating fans and raising the overall level of play. The sheer talent on display is a testament to the strength of the Notre Dame basketball program and its ability to cultivate future WNBA stars.

The South Bend Community's Enthusiastic Response

The South Bend WNBA preseason games haven't just been a sporting event; they've been a community-wide celebration. The impact extends far beyond the court, boosting the local economy and fostering a strong sense of community pride.

• High ticket sales for preseason games: Attendance has far exceeded expectations, filling the arena and demonstrating strong local support for the WNBA and these talented athletes.
• Increased local media attention and positive press: The games have garnered significant media coverage, showcasing South Bend on a larger stage and highlighting the city's vibrant sporting culture.
• Positive economic impact on local businesses: Hotels, restaurants, and other businesses are experiencing a surge in activity thanks to the influx of visitors attending the games.
• Increased visibility for South Bend as a sporting destination: This event successfully positions South Bend as a city that embraces and supports top-tier women's sports.

Local Fans' Reactions and Excitement

The buzz surrounding the South Bend WNBA preseason is palpable. Fans are thrilled to see these former Fighting Irish stars playing in their own backyard.

"It's incredible to see these players, who we watched dominate in college, now competing at the highest level of professional basketball," says one enthusiastic fan. Another adds, "The atmosphere is electric! It's such a source of pride for South Bend." Social media is ablaze with excitement, using hashtags like #SouthBendWNBA and #NDWNBA to share their experiences and support.

The Legacy of Notre Dame Women's Basketball

The success of the South Bend WNBA preseason is intrinsically linked to the long-standing excellence of the Notre Dame women's basketball program. This program has a remarkable history of producing WNBA stars, a testament to its commitment to developing both athletic talent and leadership skills.

• The program's history of producing WNBA stars is unparalleled, showing consistent success in recruiting and developing top-tier talent.
• The coaching staff's commitment to player development and strategic game planning is a key factor in their ongoing success.
• The program's strong emphasis on academics and character building ensures that these athletes are well-rounded individuals who excel both on and off the court.

This current preseason success serves as a powerful testament to the program's enduring legacy and further solidifies its position as a powerhouse in women's college basketball.

Conclusion

The South Bend WNBA preseason has been a resounding success, showcasing the exceptional talent of former Notre Dame players, energizing the local community, and delivering a significant economic boost to the region. The excitement generated by these games underscores the enduring legacy of the Notre Dame women's basketball program and highlights South Bend's growing prominence as a sporting destination.

Don't miss the chance to witness the incredible talent on display! Catch the remaining WNBA preseason games in South Bend and support these outstanding athletes as they prepare for the upcoming season. Follow the hashtags #SouthBendWNBA and #NDWNBA for updates and schedules. Experience the excitement of the WNBA Preseason South Bend firsthand!