Notre Dame's Cassandre Prosper declares for WNBA Draft

Star senior forward leaves program after standout career with Fighting Irish

Apr. 7, 2026 at 12:00am

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A cubist-style painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and planes in navy, green, and orange, capturing the dynamic motion and energy of a basketball game.Prosper's WNBA declaration signals the continued growth of women's professional basketball.Notre Dame Today

Notre Dame women's basketball star Cassandre Prosper has declared for the 2026 WNBA Draft, forgoing her final season of eligibility with the Fighting Irish. Prosper, a senior forward, was a key contributor to the team's success over the past four years.

Why it matters

Prosper's departure is a significant loss for the Notre Dame program, which has relied on her scoring, rebounding, and defensive presence. Her decision to turn pro highlights the continued growth of women's basketball and the WNBA as a viable professional option for top collegiate talent.

The details

Prosper, a 6-foot-2 forward, averaged 16.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game last season for the Fighting Irish. She was a two-time All-ACC selection and helped lead Notre Dame to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament in 2025. Prosper's combination of size, skill, and athleticism made her one of the top players in the country.

  • Prosper announced her decision to declare for the WNBA Draft on April 7, 2026.
  • She will forgo her final season of eligibility at Notre Dame and enter the 2026 WNBA Draft.

The players

Cassandre Prosper

A senior forward for the Notre Dame women's basketball team who has declared for the 2026 WNBA Draft.

Niele Ivey

The head coach of the Notre Dame women's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“Cass has been an integral part of our program for the past four years, and we're proud of the player and person she has become. We wish her nothing but the best as she pursues her professional dreams.”

— Niele Ivey, Head Coach, Notre Dame Women's Basketball

“This was a difficult decision, but I feel ready to take the next step in my basketball career. I'm grateful for my time at Notre Dame and the support of my coaches and teammates.”

— Cassandre Prosper

What’s next

Prosper will participate in the 2026 WNBA Draft Combine in May before the draft takes place in June.

The takeaway

Prosper's departure is a significant loss for the Notre Dame women's basketball program, but it also highlights the growing opportunities for top collegiate talent to pursue professional careers in the WNBA. Her decision reflects the continued progress and popularity of women's basketball at the highest levels.