Notre Dame honors Ivey, routs Valparaiso 114-54

NOTRE DAME, Ind. -

Notre Dame's 114-54 victory over Valparaiso today was merely just a formality, as the real victory took place before the game.

Niele Ivey, a former All-American, and WNBA player, had her number 33 jersey retired and displayed high above in the Purcell Pavilion rafters. Ivey has served on Head Coach Muffet McGraw's staff since 2007. One of the players she helped develop as a coach, Skylar Diggins, was on hand, and said Ivey there's no talking about Notre Dame Basketball without Ivey.

"I'm just so proud I mean obviously having a legend in your hometown, your backyard growing up. This is how it was in the stands in 2001, 97, 96. I mean it's still like that now cheering for my whole family. Words can't express how proud I am of Niele and her impact. When you think of Notre Dame basketball, you think of Muffet McGraw and Niele Ivey. Something's that evergreen and I'm so proud of you, you earned it and I love you. Go Irish!" Diggins said after the game.

As for the game, Notre Dame jumped out to a 23-0 lead over the Crusaders and rolled into halftime up 72-23. All nine players who dressed for the Irish scored in the first half. Notre Dame shot 64% as a team; big games for Freshman Jackie Young and Erin Boley who poured in 20 and 15 points respectively. 

Notre Dame now gets set for probably the most anticipated game of the regular season when they take on UConn, which will feature a 1 vs. 2 matchup. Tip off set for 7 PM ET Wednesday at Purcell Pavilion.