Hannah Hidalgo made a significant mark during the NCAA Tournament, advancing further than she did in her previous two seasons with Notre Dame. Despite a challenging matchup against UConn in the Elite Eight, Hidalgo”s performance this March was noteworthy. The Fighting Irish faced a tough 70-52 defeat against the undefeated defending champions, who are currently on a 54-game winning streak.
Hidalgo, who is not only known for her fiery defensive skills but also ranks among the top scorers in the nation, scored 22 points and secured 11 rebounds in the Elite Eight. This season was a breakthrough for Hidalgo, as she had previously experienced Sweet 16 exits in her first two years. “I think it gives us motivation,” Hidalgo commented following the loss. “We finally got over that hump.”
Looking ahead to her final season, Hidalgo expressed optimism about the next roster and the challenge of elevating their game to reach the Final Four, a feat Notre Dame has not achieved since 2019. “We know what it feels like to get to the Elite Eight, and now we”re going to have to get over that hump,” she stated.
In the earlier rounds of the NCAA Tournament, Hidalgo excelled, becoming only the second player to record multiple games with at least eight steals in the tournament”s history. She set a new NCAA single-season record for steals, finishing with 202, and previously held the record for the most steals in a single tournament with a total of 29.
Her teammate, Vanessa de Jesus, praised Hidalgo, saying, “She is one of the best players in the country. Learning from her has helped me grow.” During a standout Sweet 16 performance against Vanderbilt, Hidalgo achieved a 31-point triple-double, showcasing her all-around skills with 11 rebounds and 10 steals, in addition to seven assists.
As Hidalgo prepares for her senior year, she aims to build on her leadership and further develop her composure on the court. Head coach Niele Ivey noted, “I think you”re going to see her being even more poised.” With the groundwork laid this season, the Fighting Irish look forward to a promising future.
