From Basketball Court to Beauty Crown
Ivy Harrington, a former Morgan State basketball standout, has been crowned Miss New Jersey USA 2025. The emotional win took place at the Hotel Parsippany in North Jersey, placing her one step closer to the Miss USA and possibly Miss Universe titles.
She’s not just another beauty queen. At 30 years old, Harrington has transformed her athletic discipline into pageant strength. This win highlights her ability to shine in two very different arenas—sports and pageantry.
Representing New Jersey at Miss USA 2025
Harrington is now preparing to represent New Jersey at the 74th edition of the Miss USA pageant. If she wins there, she’ll go on to represent the United States in the Miss Universe competition.
Her story inspires many because it blends physical power, mental toughness, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Ivy’s new crown represents more than beauty—it’s a symbol of perseverance, discipline, and purpose.
Rooted in HBCU Excellence
During her time at Morgan State University, Harrington built a name as a hard-working and driven athlete. From 2013 to 2017, she appeared in 114 games, scoring 457 points, grabbing 261 rebounds, and making 101 steals.
She played as a 5’7” guard and quickly became known for her team-first mentality and relentless drive. Ivy led by example, especially during her freshman year, which was one of her strongest seasons on the court.
Turning Grief Into Purpose
The road to her crown wasn’t easy. Harrington lost her father in 2019, and her world changed. She was grieving while navigating life during the global pandemic.
“I was trying to make sense of life again,” she told NJ Advance Media. But when she saw two young Black women win pageant titles in Washington just months after her loss, she saw a new path forward. Inspired, she started competing in pageants in 2021.
Breaking Through in a Tough Pageant World
It took more than one try for Harrington to win Miss New Jersey. She faced setbacks and rejection but stayed committed to her dream.
“The pageant world is such a niche space,” she shared. “You have to be mentally tough to open yourself up to be critiqued and judged. It can leave you very vulnerable.”
Despite the pressure and vulnerability, she never gave up. Her victory this year shows how strength and self-belief can carry you across the finish line.
Empowering the Next Generation Through MVP
Outside of the spotlight, Harrington is helping young girls find their voice. She works as a social media manager in education and leads a mentorship program called MVP—Most Valuable Pivot.
Through this program, she teaches young female athletes how to build identity beyond their jerseys. “I want to teach them to become the architects of their identity,” she said.
Her workshops are helping students understand their worth, both on and off the field. Ivy is building a new generation of powerful, purpose-driven women.
A Hometown Hero From Neptune Township
Harrington hails from Neptune Township, New Jersey, and graduated from Neptune High School. Her former principal, Tom Decker, shared his excitement about her recent achievement.
“Ivy is and has always been a great role model,” Decker said. “We are so proud to say that Ivy is a member of Flier Nation!”
Her story is deeply rooted in community, growth, and a deep desire to uplift others. As she prepares for Miss USA 2025, Ivy Harrington is carrying the hopes of young Black girls who dare to dream.
