Hannah Hidalgo, Notre Dame’s star junior guard, had a standout 2024-25 season, averaging 23.8 points, 3.6 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game while helping lead the team to a 28-6 record and an ACC tournament title. She was named an All-American, the ACC Player of the Year, and led the conference with 3.7 steals per game, showing her strong defense.
With senior Olivia Miles transferring to TCU, Hidalgo is now expected to take on a bigger leadership role. Head coach Niele Ivey says Hidalgo must guide the team’s young backcourt and use her energy and voice to help the Irish make another deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
Niele Ivey Praises Hannah Hidalgo’s Leadership and Potential
Ivey had high praise for Hidalgo as she prepares to take on a bigger role in her upcoming junior season. “She’s going to be the best player in the game,” Ivey said. “She’s ready for it. … A rising junior, somebody that has exploded on the stage since her freshman year, coming off an incredible sophomore year.”
Ivey added that Hidalgo is more than ready to become the face of women’s basketball. “She’s earned it and deserves it,” she said.
“She’s going to be the best player in the game. … I’m excited that she’s going to be the face of women’s basketball.” 🙌
Notre Dame HC Niele Ivey highlights Hannah Hidalgo’s leadership qualities and potential in the upcoming season. pic.twitter.com/koVlAIBVzM
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 13, 2025
Ivey also highlighted Hidalgo’s hunger and natural leadership. “I think she’s going to be phenomenal. She wants it. She’s hungry for that role,” Ivey said. “She has that energy, she has that excitement… she’s a leader regardless because of the way that she plays.”
Now stepping into her role as an upperclassman, Ivey believes Hidalgo will be more vocal and fully embrace the spotlight. “All eyes are on her, and she’s excited for that position. She’s excited to lead this team because she wants to win, ultimately. So I’m excited for her.”
With a standout season behind her and the full support of her coach, Hidalgo is poised to take center stage as Notre Dame’s leader. As the team sets its sights on another deep tournament run, all eyes will be on the junior guard to carry the torch and continue her rise in the world of women’s basketball.
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