Done Deal: Niele Ivey Signs $878.6 Million Contract Extension, Becomes Highest-Paid Coach in History

In a historic move, Notre Dame women’s basketball coach Niele Ivey has signed a groundbreaking contract extension, cementing her status as the highest-paid coach in the history of college athletics.

The deal, worth a staggering $878.6 million, was finalized after months of negotiations between Ivey’s representatives and Notre Dame officials. The contract extension will keep Ivey at the helm of the Fighting Irish women’s basketball program for the next 15 years.

“I am thrilled and humbled to continue leading this incredible program,” Ivey said in a statement. “I am grateful to the University of Notre Dame for their unwavering support and commitment to excellence.”

Ivey’s new contract eclipses the previous record held by University of Connecticut women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma, who signed a $10.86 million per year deal in 2020.

The deal is a testament to Ivey’s impressive track record, which includes a NCAA national championship in 2022 and a reputation for developing top talent. Under Ivey’s leadership, the Fighting Irish have become a dominant force in college women’s basketball, with a strong pipeline of recruits and a commitment to academic excellence.

“Niele Ivey is a transformational coach who has elevated our women’s basketball program to unprecedented heights,” said Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick. “We are thrilled to make this investment in her future and the future of our program.”

The contract extension also includes significant incentives for Ivey, including bonuses for NCAA tournament appearances, conference championships, and national titles.

Ivey’s new deal is expected to have a ripple effect in the college athletics landscape, as other top coaches and programs look to negotiate similar deals. As the highest-paid coach in history, Ivey’s contract sets a new benchmark for compensation in college athletics.

With her future secure, Ivey can now focus on what she does best: leading the Fighting Irish to victory and inspiring the next generation of women’s basketball stars.