The University of Notre Dame women’s basketball program has hired a new director of operations as the school looks to improve on four straight trips to the Sweet 16

21:18 ET, 11 Jun 2025Updated 21:19 ET, 11 Jun 2025

Purcell PavilionNotre Dame’s Purcell Pavilion hasn’t seen a national championship since 2018(Image: Getty Images)

The University of Notre Dame women’s basketball program is set to hire Jas Smith as its new director of operations. She will leave her previous role as the director of operations for LSU’s football team.

The Fighting Irish are currently a program in transition. The team recently lost star Olivia Miles to TCU after she shockingly transferred during a hit on national television. Graduating seniors Sonia Citron — a current WNBA Rookie of the Year candidate — Maddy Wesbeld and Liatu King were all selected in the WNBA.

Under coach NIele Ivey, Notre Dame has reached four straight Sweet 16s in the NCAA Tournament. The team looked poised for a deeper run last year before tailing off late in the campaign.

READ MORE: Angel Reese shows true colors with gesture to ESPN interviewer during Sky defeatREAD MORE: Paige Bueckers ‘built different’ as WNBA rookie taunts Kelsey Plum

Smith was a 2016 graduate of Notre Dame, completing her degree while majoring in information technology management. She’s taken various operation jobs in the years since.

After serving as the assistant director of undergraduate admission at Nova Southeastern University, Smith was hired as coach Briant Kelly’s coordinator of on-campus recruiting for Notre Dame football from 2018-2021.

In 2018, Notre Dame was the college basketball national champion under coach Muffet McGraw. Following a string of departures this offseason, the program feels far away from lifting a trophy.

Content cannot be displayed without consent

First, Miles shocked many by opting for a transfer to TCU. “Words can’t express how honored I am to have met, spoken with, and played for each of you over the past four and a half years,” she said in a statement on social media.

“To the ND coaches, staff, and alumni, thank you for believing in me and for your guidance during my early enrollment, injury, and rehab. Your leadership has truly inspired me,” Miles continued.

“This decision has come after much thought about my future and goals. While it’s bittersweet to move on, I feel it’s the right time. I’m excited for new experiences and the work ahead that will help shape me into the best version of myself. Forever Irish, Olivia Miles.”

READ MORE: Hannah Hidalgo set for awkward Olivia Miles reunion after Team USA announcementREAD MORE: OIivia Miles’ brother follows in her footsteps as ex-Notre Dame star reacts

Her teammate Hannah Hidalgo, a two-time First-team All-American, reacted to the news. “You know it was her decision. If that’s what she thought the best decision for her was, then that’s what is best for her,” she said.

“I don’t know what’s best for her. Only she knows what’s best for her. So whatever she has going on, I wish her all the best. But I’m really focused on what me and my teammates have going on right now.”