Hannah Hidalgo is making history at Notre Dame. The sophomore guard has already broken records. And now, with each game, she continues to prove why she is one of the best in college basketball. With another ACC Player of the Week honor under her belt, she has set a new standard for excellence in the program.
Hannah Hidalgo’s Dominance in the ACC
No player in Notre Dame women’s basketball history has earned more ACC Player of the Week awards than Hannah Hidalgo. On Monday, Feb. 17, she secured her sixth such honor, solidifying her place as one of the most dominant players in the conference. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that she is only in her second season.
The Fighting Irish have been a powerhouse in the ACC since joining the conference in 2013, producing multiple Final Four teams and championship contenders. However, no player before Hidalgo has been recognized as often for their performances.
Hidalgo’s latest award came after she delivered two outstanding performances in Notre Dame’s victories over then-No. 2 UConn and Eastern Michigan. She averaged 28.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 4.5 steals in those games. Her ability to impact every aspect of the game has positioned her as one of the frontrunners for National Player of the Year.
Notre Dame has consistently competed at a high level, and Hidalgo believes their challenging schedule has prepared them for the postseason. After a recent game, she shared her thoughts on facing elite competition, saying:
“It’s definitely big for us to be able to play against top competition all the time, especially physical teams like Duke, because we’re going to see that when we get to the tournament, to the ACC Tournament, to the NCAA Tournament. It’s great to play these teams throughout the season, so we’re prepared, so we’re not getting hit in the mouth when we go and play these tough teams during the tournament.”
Hidalgo’s Unstoppable Season
Hidalgo has already put up impressive numbers against some of the best teams in the country. In Notre Dame’s three victories over top-five opponents, she delivered standout performances,
- vs. No. 3 USC: 24 points, 8 assists, 6 rebounds, 5 steals
- vs. No. 4 Texas: 30 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals
- vs. No. 2 UConn: 29 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals
Her dominance is not limited to top-ranked teams. In 11 games this season, she has averaged 25.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, 4.2 steals, and 3.8 assists per game. Her consistency and ability to perform at a high level every night have made her one of the most exciting players in college basketball.
Hidalgo’s impact goes beyond scoring. She plays relentlessly, making key defensive stops and setting up her teammates for success.
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Last season, she became one of only five freshmen in history to earn first-team Associated Press All-American honors. This year, she has taken her game to an even higher level, solidifying her status as one of the best guards in the country.
As the postseason approaches, Hidalgo and the Fighting Irish will be looking to make a deep run in both the ACC and NCAA Tournaments.
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