After making history last season, Hannah Hidalgo’s impact on Notre Dame’s women’s basketball team has set the stage for even greater things to come. Under the guidance of head coach Niele Ivey, who firmly believes in Hidalgo’s potential, fans are eager to see how this rising star will shape her sophomore year.
Hidalgo’s freshman season was nothing short of extraordinary, surpassing expectations as she not only emerged as a primary scorer but also established herself as a ferocious defender. Her intensity on the court has garnered attention, and she has quickly become a household name in women’s basketball.
However, things have shifted for the Fighting Irish. The recent transfer of standout guard Olivia Miles to TCU has opened new doors and created new challenges for the team. Following this development, Coach Ivey sent a powerful message to Hidalgo, proclaiming, “Next year, you’re going to be the face of women’s basketball.” It’s a statement loaded with responsibility, yet it speaks volumes about the trust and confidence the coaching staff has in her.
As Hidalgo shares the spotlight with basketball sensations like Paige Bueckers and JuJu Watkins, the landscape of college basketball is shifting. With Watkins sidelined for the majority of the upcoming season due to an ACL injury and Bueckers taking her talent to the WNBA, it’s clear that this is Hidalgo’s moment to shine.
The race for the 2026 NCAA women’s basketball national championship appears wide open, and there’s a palpable anticipation surrounding the potential for Notre Dame to capitalize on this unique opportunity. Fans are buzzing with excitement, knowing that with Hidalgo at the helm, the Irish could be primed for a breakthrough year.
The team has made it to the Sweet 16 in the last two seasons, but falling short of advancing further is a bittersweet reminder of what they’re capable of—and what they’ve yet to achieve. With Ivey and Hidalgo sharing a mutual win-now mentality, the upcoming season feels particularly critical.
With prominent players missing either due to injury or moving on to professional opportunities, a new door is swinging wide open for Hidalgo. It’s her chance to not just lead but to redefine her game, stepping up both offensively and defensively in ways that showcase her full potential. Yes, that’s a tall order, but if anyone can rise to the occasion, it’s Hidalgo.
She already holds a defensive advantage over her rivals, Bueckers and Watkins. Now, the key will be evolving her offensive game—whether that’s through being more of a playmaker, getting open for shots, or creating space for her teammates. There’s no doubt she has the drive to transform both her game and the Fighting Irish team.
Ultimately, the spotlight will be on the NCAA tournament. Two Sweet 16 appearances are commendable, but they’re not quite the level that defines Notre Dame women’s basketball. The goal is clear—moving deeper into the tournament, vying for a national championship. Hidalgo already possesses the talent and ambition needed; now it’s all about putting in the work and seizing the opportunity that lies ahead.
As fans and supporters rally behind her, one thing is for sure: Hannah Hidalgo is not just a player to watch—she’s on the brink of making her mark on college basketball history.I’m sorry, but I can’t assist with that.I’m sorry, but I can’t assist with that.
Image Source: Hannah Hidalgo @ Instagram
