Kathryn Westbeld Bio
Kathryn Westbeld is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the Phoenix Mercury in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Born on January 29, 1996, in Kettering, Ohio, she has established herself as a notable player in women’s basketball, having previously played for the Adelaide Lightning in the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) and other international teams. Westbeld played college basketball at the University of Notre Dame, where she contributed significantly to her team’s success, including winning the NCAA championship in 2018.
Early Life and Background
Kathryn Westbeld grew up in Kettering, Ohio, where she attended Fairmont High School. During her time there, she helped lead her team to an impressive 96–11 overall record, securing four Greater Western Ohio Conference titles. Westbeld’s high school career was marked by her outstanding performance, averaging 15.2 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.6 blocks per game while achieving a .598 field-goal percentage. She set school records for rebounds in a game (21) and in a season (275), as well as for field goal percentage in a season (.663). Recognized for her talent, she was ranked as the No. 4 forward in the nation and the No. 21 overall player in the Class of 2014 by ESPN. On October 21, 2013, she committed to play college basketball at Notre Dame.
Path to Basketball
At the University of Notre Dame, Kathryn Westbeld had a successful college basketball career from 2014 to 2018. In her freshman year, she appeared in all 39 games, averaging 6.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per game. She tied the program record for most games played by a freshman. In her sophomore year, she started all 33 games, averaging 7.9 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. Westbeld continued to improve throughout her college career, culminating in her senior year, where she averaged 7.7 points and 5.6 rebounds per game, helping the Fighting Irish secure the 2018 NCAA championship.
Kathryn Westbeld Career
Early Career (2018–2020)
After completing her college career, Kathryn Westbeld signed a training camp contract with the Los Angeles Sparks on April 30, 2018. Although she went undrafted in the WNBA draft, she continued to pursue her professional career. On November 17, 2019, she signed with the Adelaide Lightning in the WNBL, where she began to make her mark in professional basketball. Her time with the Lightning was followed by a break from basketball in 2020 and 2021, during which she focused on personal development.
Breakthrough (2021–Present)
Westbeld returned to professional basketball in August 2021, playing in Puerto Rico before moving to Europe, where she played in France, Italy, and Hungary. While in Hungary with KSC Szekszárd, she had a standout season, averaging 18.7 points and 8.4 rebounds per game. This performance helped her regain visibility in the WNBA. On February 10, 2025, she signed a training camp contract with the Phoenix Mercury, and on May 15, 2025, she was named to the Mercury’s final roster for the 2025 WNBA season.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout her career, Kathryn Westbeld has achieved significant milestones, including winning the NCAA championship in 2018. Her ability to perform at a high level in both college and professional basketball has solidified her reputation as a skilled player.
Kathryn Westbeld Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Kathryn Westbeld has received recognition for her contributions to basketball, particularly during her time at Notre Dame, where she was part of a championship-winning team.
Kathryn Westbeld Awards Won
Kathryn Westbeld’s most notable achievement includes winning the NCAA championship in 2018 while playing for the University of Notre Dame. This victory remains a highlight of her basketball career.
Kathryn Westbeld Family
Kathryn Westbeld was born to Susan and Jim Westbeld. She has a younger sister, Maddy Westbeld, who also played college basketball at Notre Dame and currently plays for the Chicago Sky in the WNBA. Both sisters have made history as the only siblings to reach 1,000 points in a Notre Dame uniform.
Personal Life
Details about Kathryn Westbeld’s personal life are limited, but her close relationship with her family, particularly her sister Maddy, is well-documented. The Westbeld family has a strong basketball legacy, contributing to the sport at various levels.