A Five-Star Commitment
Notre Dame women's basketball has landed a major recruiting victory, securing the commitment of five‑star prospect Eve Long for the Class of 2027. The 6‑foot‑3 forward from Olathe, Kansas, is listed 12th overall in the national rankings and holds the second spot among power‑forward recruits.
Long's decision came after a thorough evaluation of programs that included Duke, UConn, UCLA and Kansas, among others. Her choice underscores the Irish's ability to attract top talent despite a crowded field of suitors.
The pledge marks the first verbal commitment for the 2027 cycle under head coach Niele Ivey, whose staff has already assembled a 2026 class that ranks among the nation's best, featuring five top‑100 players.
The Irish look to build on a recent Elite Eight run, their first since 2019, which ended with a hard‑fought loss to UConn. Adding a player of Long's caliber could push the program back to the national championship conversation.
What This Means for the Future
Long's commitment not only elevates the Irish's recruiting profile but also signals a potential shift in the balance of power within the Big East and national landscape. With a strong foundation already in place, Notre Dame appears poised to sustain its upward trajectory.