What does it take for a player to shine in the spotlight of March Madness? For Hannah Hidalgo, the answer is a blend of talent, hard work, and a little bit of magic. The guard for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish women’s basketball team has recently made headlines for her remarkable performance, leading her team to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2019.
Despite not being selected as a finalist for the prestigious Naismith Award, Hidalgo’s statistics speak volumes. She averaged an impressive 25.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 5.6 steals per game during the 2025-2026 season. Her standout moment came during a thrilling March Madness game against Vanderbilt, where she recorded a triple-double with 31 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 steals.
Hidalgo’s performance not only helped Notre Dame secure a 67-64 victory over Vanderbilt but also set new NCAA tournament records. She broke the NCAA single-season steals record with 199 steals and achieved a tournament record of 26 steals across the competition. Remarkably, she became the second player in NCAA tournament history to achieve a triple-double with steals.
Coach Niele Ivey praised Hidalgo, stating, “Hannah is the player of the year,” while her teammate KK Bransford echoed this sentiment, emphasizing her exceptional skills on the court. After the game, Hidalgo reflected on her performance, saying, “I felt like I was floating,” capturing the joy and exhilaration of her achievement.
As the season progressed, Hidalgo’s leadership was crucial in turning around a team that started with a 13-8 record, ultimately earning a No. 6 seed in the NCAA tournament. Her defensive prowess was recognized when she was named the ACC Defensive Player of the Year, further solidifying her status as a key player in women’s basketball.
Looking ahead, Notre Dame is set to face top-seeded UConn for a coveted spot in the Final Four. The anticipation is palpable, and fans are eager to see how Hidalgo will continue to impact the game.
In a recent conversation with Maya Moore at the Final Four, Hidalgo sought advice on what it takes to win a championship, indicating her commitment to growth and excellence in her sport.
As the tournament unfolds, the community rallies behind Hidalgo and the Fighting Irish, celebrating their achievements and hoping for continued success. Details remain unconfirmed about the upcoming match, but one thing is certain: Hannah Hidalgo’s journey is just beginning, and her story is one that inspires many.
