South Bend, IN — In a moment that cements her as one of the brightest stars in college basketball, Notre Dame’s electrifying guard, Hannah Hidalgo, has been named the USA Female Basketball Player of the Year. The honor is a testament not only to her sensational on-court performances but also to the heart, leadership, and relentless work ethic she displayed throughout the season.
For Hidalgo, it’s a dream realized at the end of a historic campaign. The sophomore phenom dazzled fans and analysts alike with her breathtaking speed, creative playmaking, and fierce competitiveness. Night after night, she delivered performances that lifted the Fighting Irish and reminded the country why Notre Dame remains a powerhouse in women’s college basketball.
“This is an incredible honor,” Hidalgo said, beaming with pride as she accepted the award. “I share this with my teammates, my coaches, my family, and everyone who believed in me from the very beginning. This season was about more than just winning — it was about setting a standard, pushing each other, and representing Notre Dame with pride.”
Hidalgo’s season was the stuff of legend. Averaging 21.7 points, 6.5 assists, 4.2 rebounds, and an astonishing 3.8 steals per game, she dominated on both ends of the floor. Her speed was unmatched, often leaving defenders flat-footed, while her defensive instincts wreaked havoc on opponents’ backcourts. She didn’t just play the game — she elevated it, making those around her better while putting her own stamp on every contest.
Coach Niele Ivey, who herself recently led Notre Dame to a stirring championship victory, had nothing but praise for her star guard.
“Hannah is everything you want in a player — talented, unselfish, tough, and full of heart,” Ivey said. “She leads by example every day, and her competitive spirit is contagious. Watching her growth this season has been truly special.”
The connection between Ivey and Hidalgo has been key to Notre Dame’s success. Ivey’s experience as a former elite point guard has helped mold Hidalgo’s game, allowing her to balance her natural instincts with a growing strategic mastery. That mentorship was visible in the biggest moments of the season, with Hidalgo consistently stepping up when it mattered most.
Her impact wasn’t limited to just her stat line. Hidalgo’s leadership helped unite a roster filled with young talent and veteran players. She was the heartbeat of the team — diving for loose balls, rallying teammates during tough stretches, and always bringing relentless energy. Her competitive fire fueled Notre Dame’s deep tournament run and kept the Irish in every battle, no matter the odds.
Beyond her on-court brilliance, Hidalgo has captured the hearts of fans with her authenticity and humility. Always quick to credit her teammates, coaches, and family, she has embraced the platform that comes with being a star, using her voice to inspire younger athletes and advocate for women’s sports.
Social media erupted with congratulations following the announcement, with former players, WNBA stars, and sports legends all praising Hidalgo’s achievement. For the Notre Dame community, it was another shining moment in a season filled with milestones and memories.
As she stood on stage to receive her award, the magnitude of the moment was not lost on Hidalgo. In her speech, she spoke not only about the journey so far but about the future — her desire to keep growing, keep leading, and keep inspiring the next generation of athletes.
“This is just the beginning,” she said. “There’s still so much more I want to accomplish — for myself, for my team, and for everyone who dreams of doing something great.”
With her combination of talent, drive, and character, there’s little doubt that Hannah Hidalgo’s story is far from finished. If anything, it’s only getting started.
And for Notre Dame, the future has never looked brighter.
Leave a Reply