Three former Notre Dame players are making headlines once again, this time for their incredible achievements in the WNBA. Jackie Young, Skylar Diggins-Smith, and Sonia Citron are headed to Indianapolis to participate in the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game, an honor that reflects both their individual brilliance and the legacy of Notre Dame women’s basketball. The trio’s inclusion in this year’s All-Star event is not only a testament to their talent and hard work, but also a proud moment for their alma mater, which has consistently produced elite-level players prepared to shine on the professional stage.
Jackie Young’s path to the WNBA All-Star Game has been one of continuous growth and dominance. A key figure for the Las Vegas Aces, Young has played a pivotal role in the franchise’s recent success, including multiple championship runs. Known for her versatility, defense, and ability to score from virtually anywhere on the court, she has emerged as one of the most complete guards in the league. Her All-Star selection comes on the heels of a season where she’s been a top performer in scoring, assists, and steals. Jackie has transformed into the kind of player who impacts the game on both ends, always hustling, making smart decisions, and stepping up in clutch moments. Her confidence has grown steadily since her days in South Bend, where she starred under head coach Muffet McGraw. At Notre Dame, Jackie was known for her maturity and poise beyond her years, qualities that have translated perfectly into her professional career.
Skylar Diggins-Smith is no stranger to All-Star recognition, but each appearance carries special significance. A veteran in the league and one of the most recognizable names in women’s basketball, Diggins-Smith continues to be a force to reckon with. After taking time off due to injury and maternity leave in recent seasons, she has made an incredible return to form. Her All-Star selection this year is a reminder of her enduring talent, leadership, and impact on the game. Known for her fiery competitiveness, court vision, and scoring ability, Skylar remains a cornerstone of any team she plays for. Her presence in the All-Star Game is especially meaningful considering her long-standing connection to Indiana — she’s a South Bend native and a legend at Notre Dame, where she helped elevate the program to national prominence. To see her return to Indiana for an All-Star Game is a full-circle moment for fans who’ve followed her career since her Fighting Irish days. It’s not just a celebration of what she’s doing now, but also of everything she has accomplished throughout a storied career.
Sonia Citron, the youngest of the three, is the breakout story of this All-Star class. In just her second WNBA season, she’s made an enormous impression, earning the respect of teammates, coaches, and fans alike. Sonia’s transition from college to the pros has been remarkably smooth, with her intelligent play, smooth shooting stroke, and tough defense catching the attention of the entire league. Her All-Star nod is a sign that she’s not just a promising young player, but already one of the league’s elite. At Notre Dame, Sonia was a standout — mature, focused, and coachable. She played with a steadiness that made her a fan favorite and an indispensable part of the team. In the WNBA, she has carried that same mindset, combining her physical skills with a mental sharpness that makes her game-wise beyond her years. Her selection is a glimpse into the future of the league — Sonia represents the next generation of stars, and her presence at the All-Star Game will only add to her growing profile.
For Notre Dame, having three alumni in the WNBA All-Star Game at the same time is a powerful statement. It’s a reflection of the program’s sustained excellence and the culture of high standards that has been cultivated over decades. Under the guidance of coaches like Muffet McGraw and now Niele Ivey, Notre Dame has produced numerous WNBA players, many of whom have gone on to have long, successful careers. The trio of Jackie, Skylar, and Sonia is the latest embodiment of that legacy — athletes who are not only talented but also disciplined, team-oriented, and resilient.
Beyond their statistics and accolades, all three players have also emerged as leaders and role models within their communities and the larger basketball world. Jackie Young has been active in youth development, often returning to her roots in Indiana to host camps and mentor young athletes. Skylar Diggins-Smith has used her platform to advocate for women’s health, mental health awareness, and pay equity in sports. Her voice has been one of the most influential in pushing for progress both on and off the court. Sonia, though early in her career, has already shown signs of becoming a leader not just through her play, but through her professionalism and humility. She approaches the game with a respect for its history and a desire to make a meaningful impact.
The WNBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis promises to be a celebration of talent, competition, and the growing popularity of women’s basketball. Having it take place in Indiana — a state known for its deep basketball roots — adds a layer of significance, especially for players like Jackie and Skylar who have personal ties to the region. Fans will get a chance to see their favorite stars up close, but for Notre Dame supporters, the game offers something even more special: a chance to celebrate three of their own, all at once, on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
This moment also speaks to the evolution of women’s basketball as a whole. The WNBA has seen increased attention, better coverage, and growing fan support, especially over the last few years. Players like Jackie Young, Skylar Diggins-Smith, and Sonia Citron are at the forefront of this movement. Their presence in the All-Star Game helps to spotlight not just their own journeys but also the growth of the league and the rise in opportunities for women athletes. With more visibility, endorsement deals, and media narratives being built around these stars, the future looks bright for the sport.
In addition, these three players represent different stages in the arc of a professional athlete’s life. Skylar, the experienced veteran, brings wisdom and a rich perspective. Jackie, in the prime of her career, is a symbol of the modern WNBA star — athletic, skilled, and business-savvy. Sonia, the newcomer, is full of promise and potential, giving fans a glimpse of what’s to come. Together, they form a powerful trio that illustrates the full spectrum of success that begins with a solid college foundation and grows into a lasting professional legacy.
The camaraderie and shared history among them also can’t be overlooked. Though they played at Notre Dame in different eras, there’s a common thread that binds them — the Fighting Irish spirit. That sense of belonging, of having been forged in a program that values teamwork and excellence, still connects them. When they take the court in Indianapolis, it won’t just be as representatives of their WNBA teams, but as proud Notre Dame alumnae continuing to write history.
It’s moments like these that inspire the next generation of players. Young girls watching the All-Star Game will see role models who once wore the same college jersey, who worked tirelessly to refine their craft, and who now shine at the highest level. Whether it’s Jackie’s calm execution, Skylar’s fiery leadership, or Sonia’s all-around brilliance, each brings something unique to the table — and together, they show that greatness doesn’t come in just one form.
The WNBA All-Star Game is always about more than just basketball. It’s a showcase of the sport’s best talents, yes, but also a celebration of culture, community, and progress. For Notre Dame, having Jackie, Skylar, and Sonia in that spotlight is not just a point of pride — it’s a beacon of what’s possible when talent meets preparation, support, and opportunity.
As they head to Indianapolis, the excitement is palpable. Fans from around the country, and especially those from South Bend and the Notre Dame community, will be tuning in with pride. For Jackie Young, it’s a recognition of her continued dominance. For Skylar Diggins-Smith, it’s a celebration of perseverance and excellence over time. And for Sonia Citron, it’s just the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary career.
Congratulations to Jackie, Skylar, and Sonia on this incredible honor. The WNBA All-Star Game just got a lot more exciting — and a lot more Irish.
