Notre Dame women’s basketball continues to build a formidable roster heading into the upcoming season, and their most recent addition is a significant one. The Fighting Irish have landed a key transfer in the form of former Duke guard Reigan Richardson, who entered the portal earlier this offseason and has now committed to play under head coach Niele Ivey. This move bolsters an already talented backcourt and signals Notre Dame’s clear intention to compete at the highest level in the ACC and nationally.
Richardson, a 5-foot-11 guard from Charlotte, North Carolina, arrives in South Bend after two productive seasons at Duke. Known for her scoring touch, versatility, and defensive prowess, she brings experience and a high basketball IQ to a Notre Dame team that has been steadily rising under Ivey’s leadership. In her sophomore season with the Blue Devils, Richardson averaged 12.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game while shooting an efficient 45% from the field and 36% from beyond the arc. Her ability to create her own shot and defend multiple positions made her one of the most sought-after players in the portal this spring.
For Notre Dame, this addition could prove to be pivotal. With standout guard Hannah Hidalgo returning for her sophomore campaign after an electric freshman season, the backcourt pairing of Hidalgo and Richardson promises to be one of the most dynamic in the country. Hidalgo’s relentless energy, quickness, and playmaking will be complemented by Richardson’s steadiness, length, and scoring instincts. Together, they have the potential to overwhelm opposing defenses and set the tone on both ends of the court.
The Irish have also been dealing with injuries in recent seasons, particularly in the backcourt, which made adding depth a clear priority for Ivey and her staff. Richardson not only provides insurance in case of future setbacks, but she also elevates the ceiling of the team as a whole. She can play both on and off the ball, allowing for flexibility in offensive schemes and enabling Notre Dame to run different lineups depending on matchups.
From a leadership standpoint, Richardson brings a maturity and calm presence that should mesh well with the Fighting Irish culture. She has competed in the ACC her entire collegiate career and is no stranger to high-level competition. That experience will be invaluable, especially come March when the stakes are at their highest. Her understanding of defensive schemes and her ability to execute in clutch situations make her an ideal fit for a team looking to make a deep NCAA Tournament run.
Off the court, Richardson has also been recognized for her character and academic diligence, aligning well with Notre Dame’s standards and expectations. The coaching staff reportedly built a strong rapport with her during the transfer recruitment process, emphasizing both her development as a player and as a person. That relationship, combined with the opportunity to play a central role on a nationally competitive team, was instrumental in her decision to choose Notre Dame over other top programs.
Looking ahead, Richardson’s addition solidifies Notre Dame as a top-tier contender not only in the ACC but also on the national stage. With a blend of young talent, experienced transfers, and a coaching staff that has shown a knack for player development and in-game adjustments, the Fighting Irish are poised for a breakthrough year.
As the roster continues to take shape, fans in South Bend have plenty to be excited about. Richardson’s arrival is more than just a transfer—it’s a statement of intent from a program with championship aspirations. With offseason workouts already underway and anticipation building, all eyes will be on how this new-look Notre Dame squad comes together, and Reigan Richardson will undoubtedly be a central figure in that journey.
