Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo and Olivia Miles have etched their names in history as the only teammates among the 2025 National Player of the Year semifinalists. This distinction not only highlights their individual brilliance but also cements their status as one of the most dominant duos in college basketball.
Hannah Hidalgo & Olivia Miles: The Nation’s Most Dominant Backcourt
Both players have been instrumental in Notre Dame’s championship aspirations, leading the team in scoring, playmaking, and defensive intensity. As the NCAA tournament approaches the dynamic backcourt of Hidalgo and Miles continues to fuel the Fighting Irish’s pursuit of national glory.
2025 NAISMITH PLAYER OF THE YEAR SEMIFINALISTS ⭐️
Paige Bueckers of UConn
JuJu Watkins of USC
Hailey Van Lith of TCU
Lauren Betts of UCLA
Georgia Amoore of Kentucky
Olivia Miles of Notre Dame
Madison Booker of Texas
Hannah Hidalgo of Notre Dame
Ta’Niya Latson of FSU
Aneesah… pic.twitter.com/1xnIAZGzhP— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessWBB) March 13, 2025
Hidalgo has had a breakout sophomore season, averaging 24.2 points, 3.7 steals, and shooting 40.7% from three-point range, making her one of the most electrifying guards in the country.
The statistics show her position as the fourth leading scorer and stealer per game in the national league, which showcases her offensive and defensive skills. During the ACC Tournament, Hidalgo scored 25 points, which became the game-high, as she propelled Notre Dame to a 73-64 win against California.
Miles, returning from an ACL injury, has regained top form, averaging 16.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game. Her elite court vision and ability to control the tempo make her the perfect complement to Hidalgo.
Miles currently ranks first in the ACC for assist numbers, and she has boosted her 3-point accuracy to 40.9%, which positions her third in the conference statistics. Three triple-doubles mark this season as her most significant accomplishment while ranking her first among all NCAA players with this feat.
Together, Hidalgo and Miles have powered Notre Dame to a top-three ranking in the Her Hoop Stats Rating and a dominant showing in the ACC Tournament. Their chemistry, leadership, and complementary skillsets make them the most feared backcourt in women’s college basketball.
How They Compare to Other Player of the Year Semifinalists
While Hidalgo and Miles are the only teammates among the semifinalists, they face tough competition from other standout players. JuJu Watkins (USC) has been instrumental in leading her team to an impressive 27-2 record, earning her the Player of the Year title.
Paige Bueckers (UConn), a former National Player of the Year, aims to conclude her college career with a championship before entering the WNBA.
Despite this stacked field of individual talents, Hidalgo and Miles have a unique edge. They elevate each other’s play while maintaining elite individual statistics. Hidalgo’s scoring prowess paired with Miles’ playmaking creates a backcourt synergy that no other semifinalist can match.
Miles’ 49.6% field goal percentage (ninth in ACC) complements Hidalgo’s perimeter shooting giving Notre Dame a multi-dimensional offensive attack.
What makes this duo particularly special is how they enhance the team’s overall performance. Notre Dame’s achievements this season owe a lot to the combined capabilities of this pair because they lift up their teammates toward basketball greatness.
KEEP READING: Top 10 Women’s College Basketball Players in 2025
With the approaching NCAA Tournament, the basketball world will watch this dynamic duo to see if they can guide Notre Dame to the national title while strengthening their position as elite women’s college basketball competitors.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
