In a thrilling NCAA Tournament Round of 32 matchup held on March 23, 2026, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish women’s basketball team triumphed over the Ohio State Buckeyes with a final score of 83-73. This victory not only showcased the team’s resilience but also secured their place in the Sweet Sixteen for the fifth consecutive year.
The game began with a challenging start for Notre Dame, as they found themselves trailing 11-0 early on. However, the Fighting Irish quickly regrouped, demonstrating their determination and skill on the court. They outscored Ohio State 83-62 after the initial deficit, showcasing a remarkable turnaround that left fans on the edge of their seats.
Key moments
Hannah Hidalgo was a standout player for Notre Dame, scoring an impressive 26 points and grabbing a career-high 13 rebounds. Her performance was not only pivotal in the game but also historic, as she matched her own program single-game NCAA Tournament record with eight steals. Hidalgo’s contributions were crucial in shifting the momentum in favor of the Fighting Irish.
In contrast, Jaloni Cambridge was the sole bright spot for Ohio State, scoring a staggering 41 points. Despite her efforts, the Buckeyes struggled to find support, with no other player reaching double digits in scoring. This disparity highlighted Notre Dame’s balanced offensive attack, with five players scoring in double figures throughout the game.
Following the game, Vanessa de Jesus reflected on the team’s early struggles, stating, “We knew they were going to come out hot. For us, it was facing adversity and knowing we’ll have our time.” This sentiment resonated with the team’s journey, as they had been projected as a No. 9 seed in late January before turning their season around.
Hidalgo, ever humble, remarked, “I don’t ever really know my stats, I’m just out there hooping,” emphasizing her focus on teamwork and winning rather than individual accolades. Her teammate, Cassandre Prosper, expressed pride in the team’s achievement, saying, “To be back in the Sweet Sixteen this year, it means the world. Knowing how much work and effort I put in personally trying to regrow and build this team, it means a lot.” This victory is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team.
As the Fighting Irish celebrate this significant win, they look ahead to the next round of the tournament with renewed confidence and determination. The community surrounding Notre Dame continues to rally behind their team, eager to see how far they can go in this year’s NCAA Tournament. With their history of success and a roster filled with talent, the Fighting Irish are poised to make a deep run.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding their next opponent, but one thing is certain: Notre Dame women’s basketball is ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead, united in their pursuit of excellence on the court.
