Notre Dame Guard Hannah Hidalgo Named Wooden Award Finalist: A Look at Her Journey and Impact

In the fast-paced world of college basketball, there are moments that capture the attention of fans, analysts, and pundits alike. One such moment arrived when Notre Dame guard Hannah Hidalgo was named a finalist for the prestigious Wooden Award, a significant honor in the world of college basketball. The Wooden Award, named after the legendary UCLA coach John Wooden, is given annually to the best player in women’s college basketball. Being named a finalist is a mark of excellence, and for Hannah Hidalgo, it’s the culmination of a remarkable journey that has solidified her as one of the top talents in the game.

A Rising Star: Early Beginnings

Hannah Hidalgo’s journey to being named a Wooden Award finalist was not an overnight success. Born and raised in the basketball-rich state of New Jersey, Hidalgo had basketball in her blood from an early age. Her parents were both athletes, and they quickly recognized their daughter’s exceptional talent. From the time she was a young girl, it was clear that basketball would play a pivotal role in her life.

Hidalgo’s athleticism and skillset were evident on the high school court. She played for the esteemed Blair Academy in New Jersey, where she became one of the top-ranked recruits in the country. Her playmaking ability, leadership skills, and scoring prowess quickly attracted the attention of college scouts across the nation. In her final high school season, Hidalgo led Blair Academy to a state championship and was named one of the top high school players in the nation.

The Move to Notre Dame

In 2022, Hidalgo made the decision to commit to the University of Notre Dame, one of the most storied programs in NCAA women’s basketball history. The Fighting Irish, under head coach Niele Ivey, have long been a powerhouse in women’s college basketball, and Hidalgo saw an opportunity to join a program with a winning tradition and a bright future.

Notre Dame’s history of success, coupled with the opportunity to develop under a respected coach like Ivey, made the program an ideal fit for Hidalgo. It didn’t take long for her to make an impact on the court in South Bend. In her first season, Hidalgo quickly demonstrated why she was one of the most highly anticipated players in the country. Her poise, basketball IQ, and competitive spirit made her an immediate contributor to the Fighting Irish’s success.

The 2024-2025 Season: A Breakout Year

While Hidalgo’s freshman year showed flashes of brilliance, it was the 2024-2025 season where she truly put the college basketball world on notice. From the very start of the season, it was clear that Hidalgo had elevated her game to another level. Her scoring ability, court vision, and leadership on the floor made her a constant presence in every game.

What stood out the most was Hidalgo’s ability to impact the game in a variety of ways. Not only was she a prolific scorer, but she also excelled in facilitating the offense, setting up her teammates for easy buckets, and playing with an intensity that set the tone for the entire team. Her performances were consistently highlighted by big moments in key games, earning her recognition as one of the best players in women’s college basketball.

In a particularly notable stretch, Hidalgo led Notre Dame to several high-profile wins over top-ranked opponents. Her performance against some of the best teams in the nation showcased her ability to perform under pressure and solidified her status as one of the frontrunners for the Wooden Award.

The Wooden Award: A Prestigious Honor

The John R. Wooden Award is one of the most respected individual honors in college basketball. It is awarded annually to the best player in NCAA Division I women’s basketball, and it is named after the legendary coach John Wooden, who led UCLA to 10 national championships over a remarkable career. The award is widely regarded as the highest individual honor a player can receive in college basketball.

The Wooden Award is based on a combination of factors, including overall performance, leadership, and contributions to a team’s success. The finalists for the award are selected by a committee of sportswriters, coaches, and basketball analysts, who evaluate players from across the nation. Being named a finalist is an extraordinary achievement, and it highlights the player’s remarkable consistency, skill, and ability to impact the game.

When Hidalgo was named a finalist for the Wooden Award, it was a testament to her outstanding performances throughout the season. As one of the top players in the nation, she had proven herself capable of leading Notre Dame to success on the national stage, and her individual achievements were impossible to ignore.

What Makes Hidalgo Special?

As a player, Hannah Hidalgo stands out for a variety of reasons. Her versatility and skillset are unmatched, and she has an ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. Her offensive game is a blend of creativity, explosiveness, and basketball IQ, while her defensive ability adds another layer to her game. There are several key qualities that make her one of the most complete players in the game today.

1. Scoring Ability: Hidalgo’s ability to score from multiple spots on the floor is one of her greatest strengths. Whether it’s attacking the rim, hitting mid-range jumpers, or stretching the defense with her three-point shooting, Hidalgo has the offensive tools to make her a constant scoring threat. Her scoring ability allows her to keep defenses on their heels, creating opportunities for both herself and her teammates.
2. Playmaking and Basketball IQ: While scoring is a major part of Hidalgo’s game, she is also an exceptional playmaker. Her court vision is elite, and she is adept at making quick decisions in the flow of the game. Hidalgo is always aware of her teammates’ positioning, and her ability to set up others for easy baskets is one of the key reasons Notre Dame has been so successful. Her basketball IQ is off the charts, and it allows her to excel in fast-paced, high-pressure situations.
3. Defense: While much of the attention on Hidalgo centers around her offense, she is also a standout defender. Her quickness, anticipation, and ability to disrupt passing lanes make her a force on the defensive end. She is often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best player, and she consistently rises to the occasion, proving that her skillset extends well beyond scoring.
4. Leadership: As a sophomore, Hidalgo has already become one of the vocal leaders of the Notre Dame program. Her competitive spirit, work ethic, and relentless drive are infectious, and her leadership has been a key factor in the team’s success this season. Whether it’s encouraging her teammates on the floor or providing a calming presence in critical moments, Hidalgo’s leadership has been instrumental to Notre Dame’s continued dominance.
5. Clutch Performances: One of the hallmarks of Hidalgo’s season has been her ability to perform in clutch moments. Whether it’s hitting game-winning shots, making key defensive plays, or stepping up in the final moments of a tight game, Hidalgo has proven time and time again that she is not afraid of the spotlight. Her ability to deliver when it matters most is a key reason she has become one of the most respected players in the nation.

The Impact on Notre Dame

Hannah Hidalgo’s contributions to the Notre Dame program cannot be overstated. Since her arrival in South Bend, she has helped elevate the program to new heights. Her combination of skill, leadership, and determination has made her one of the most influential players in women’s college basketball. As a finalist for the Wooden Award, Hidalgo’s accomplishments have not only cemented her place as one of the best players in the country but also highlighted the continued excellence of the Notre Dame program.

Under head coach Niele Ivey, the Fighting Irish have remained a perennial contender on the national stage, and Hidalgo has played a significant role in that success. Her performances have helped Notre Dame remain one of the top-ranked teams in the country, and her leadership has been a driving force behind the team’s continued dominance.

The Future of Hannah Hidalgo

With the Wooden Award now in her sights, it’s clear that Hannah Hidalgo’s future in women’s basketball is bright. As a young player with a remarkable skillset, Hidalgo is only scratching the surface of her potential. While she has already accomplished so much in her collegiate career, the best is likely still ahead of her.

Whether she wins the Wooden Award this season or not, Hidalgo has already established herself as one of the most impactful players in college basketball. She is expected to continue to improve her game, refine her skills, and lead Notre Dame to even greater success in the coming years. The potential for Hidalgo to become one of the greatest players in the history of women’s college basketball is undeniable.

Hannah Hidalgo’s selection as a finalist for the Wooden Award is a testament to her hard work, talent, and impact on the game of women’s basketball. As a player who has demonstrated excellence in every aspect of the game, she has earned recognition as one of the top players in the nation. While the Wooden Award may be the highest individual honor she’s received to date, it is clear that Hidalgo’s journey is just beginning. The best is yet to come, and fans of college basketball will undoubtedly be watching as she continues to make her mark on the sport.