Good News: In a season filled with standout performances and unforgettable moments, Notre Dame women’s basketball guard Hannah Hidalgo has emerged as the brightest of…

In a season filled with standout performances and unforgettable moments, Notre Dame women’s basketball guard Hannah Hidalgo has emerged as the brightest star of them all. The freshman phenom was officially named the Sporting News National Player of the Year, capping off a remarkable season that has captivated fans and reshaped expectations for what a first-year player can achieve at the collegiate level.

At just 5-foot-6, Hidalgo may not fit the mold of a traditional powerhouse basketball player, but her impact on the court has been anything but small. From the moment she stepped onto the floor in a Notre Dame jersey, Hidalgo has consistently delivered game-changing performances, displaying elite-level scoring, tenacious defense, and an on-court maturity far beyond her years.

The Sporting News recognition places Hidalgo among the most elite company in women’s college basketball. The award, one of the most prestigious individual honors in the sport, is given annually to the player deemed the most outstanding in the country. For Hidalgo to receive it as a freshman is a testament not only to her individual brilliance but also to her ability to elevate those around her and lead her team in critical moments.

Throughout the season, Hidalgo has been the heartbeat of the Fighting Irish. She led her team in points, assists, and steals, frequently taking over games when her team needed her most. Her incredible quickness and court vision have left defenders spinning and fans in awe. She regularly put up double-doubles, and even flirted with triple-doubles on multiple occasions—a rare feat in women’s college basketball.

Beyond the stats, what has truly set Hidalgo apart is her unrelenting drive and her fearless approach to the game. In high-pressure situations, she’s proven to be unshakeable. Whether it’s hitting clutch shots, making crucial defensive stops, or pushing the tempo in transition, Hidalgo has demonstrated the kind of leadership typically seen in seasoned veterans.

Her head coach, Niele Ivey, has repeatedly praised Hidalgo’s work ethic, coachability, and competitive spirit. “Hannah is one of the most driven and focused players I’ve ever coached,” Ivey said in a recent press conference. “She has an incredible basketball IQ and a desire to improve every single day. What she’s accomplished this season is extraordinary, but I know she’s only just getting started.”

Hidalgo’s impact has also gone beyond the court. She’s quickly become a fan favorite not just at Notre Dame, but nationally. Her electrifying playing style and charismatic personality have made her one of the most talked-about players in college sports. Young fans look up to her, while older basketball enthusiasts admire her poise and skill.

The Sporting News National Player of the Year award comes on the heels of several other honors Hidalgo has received this season. She’s already been named to the All-ACC First Team and was a strong contender for multiple other national awards. However, this latest recognition cements her as the top player in the country, an extraordinary distinction for someone playing in her first collegiate season.

Notre Dame’s season has been deeply influenced by Hidalgo’s presence. With her at the helm, the Fighting Irish surged to a strong finish in conference play and positioned themselves as a formidable force in the NCAA tournament. While many teams rely on upperclassmen to lead deep runs in March, Notre Dame has leaned on the youthful energy and explosive talent of their standout freshman.

As the NCAA tournament continues, all eyes will be on Hidalgo to see how far she can carry her team. If her regular season performance is any indication, Notre Dame fans have every reason to believe she can lead them on a deep and thrilling postseason journey.

Hidalgo’s win is also a signal of a shifting landscape in women’s college basketball. As the sport grows in popularity and visibility, more young stars are stepping into the spotlight earlier in their careers. Hannah Hidalgo is now the face of that movement—a player who represents the future while already dominating the present.

With three years of eligibility still ahead of her, the sky is the limit for Hidalgo. But for now, she can bask in the recognition of what she’s already accomplished. Being named Sporting News National Player of the Year is no small feat, and it is richly deserved.

As she continues to write her legacy, one thing is clear: Hannah Hidalgo is a name that will be remembered in college basketball for years to come.