Hannah Hidalgo Named a Wooden Award Finalist: A Testament to Hard Work, Determination, and Excellence

In the world of collegiate basketball, few accolades are as prestigious as the John R. Wooden Award. Named after the legendary UCLA coach, this award recognizes the best player in college basketball each year. While the Wooden Award has become synonymous with elite talent, it also honors the values that make players stand out: leadership, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. In 2025, one player who epitomizes these traits is Hannah Hidalgo, a standout guard who has been named a Wooden Award Finalist. This recognition is a testament to Hidalgo’s incredible season, both on the court and as an ambassador for the sport.

The Rise of Hannah Hidalgo: Early Life and High School Success

Hannah Hidalgo’s journey to becoming a Wooden Award finalist is a story of grit and perseverance. Born and raised in the small town of Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, Hidalgo’s passion for basketball developed early. From the time she could walk, it was clear that her athleticism was something special. Both her parents were sports enthusiasts, and they encouraged her to explore a variety of athletic endeavors, but basketball quickly became her primary focus.

By the time she entered high school at Archbishop Carroll High School, Hidalgo had already established herself as one of the top young basketball players in the region. Her combination of speed, skill, and basketball IQ quickly set her apart from her peers. She was known for her ability to score efficiently, create opportunities for her teammates, and play lock-down defense. As a freshman, she quickly made an impact on the team and helped lead the Archbishop Carroll Patriots to the state championship game.

In her sophomore year, Hidalgo’s success only grew. She became a consensus All-American, earning recognition from multiple high school basketball associations. She was known for her unselfishness on the court, always looking for ways to elevate her teammates while also scoring when the opportunity arose. By the end of her high school career, she had accumulated multiple state championships and individual accolades, including being named the Pennsylvania Player of the Year.

A New Chapter: College Basketball and the National Spotlight

When Hidalgo committed to play for the University of Notre Dame, she was stepping into a new challenge: transitioning from high school phenom to collegiate athlete. The expectations were high, but Hidalgo thrived under the pressure. Notre Dame’s basketball program, led by head coach Niele Ivey, has a rich tradition of success, including multiple NCAA tournament appearances and a national championship. As a freshman, Hidalgo quickly became a key contributor to the team, showcasing her versatility and leadership on the court.

One of the most impressive aspects of Hidalgo’s game is her ability to adapt. While she was known as a scorer in high school, her transition to college basketball saw her evolve into a complete player. She became an elite playmaker, showing an ability to distribute the ball and run the offense with precision. Her basketball IQ shone through, and she displayed an uncanny ability to read defenses and make quick decisions. Defensively, she remained just as dominant, using her speed and agility to lock down opposing players and create turnovers.

Hidalgo’s freshman season ended with her earning a spot on the ACC All-Freshman team. By her sophomore year, she had become one of the top guards in the country, and expectations for her and her team skyrocketed. But it wasn’t just her on-court performance that made her special—it was her leadership, too. Hidalgo was quickly recognized as one of the most vocal and positive leaders in the Notre Dame locker room, always encouraging her teammates and leading by example.

The 2025 Season: Breaking Records and Making History

The 2025 season marked a pivotal year for Hannah Hidalgo. Coming off a successful sophomore campaign, she entered her junior season with even higher expectations. However, Hidalgo didn’t just meet those expectations—she exceeded them. In many ways, the 2025 season was a breakout year for her, as she led Notre Dame to the top of the ACC standings and helped the Fighting Irish earn a high seed in the NCAA tournament.

Hidalgo’s statistics were nothing short of impressive. She averaged over 20 points per game, nearly 6 assists, and 4 rebounds, while also being one of the top defensive players in the league. Her ability to score in a variety of ways—whether it was through driving to the basket, shooting from the perimeter, or finishing in transition—made her nearly impossible to defend. Her jump shot had become more consistent, and her mid-range game was a staple of Notre Dame’s offensive scheme.

While her offensive numbers were impressive, it was her all-around play that truly made her stand out. Hidalgo was named the ACC Player of the Year and was an automatic All-American selection. She continued to dominate on the defensive side of the ball, consistently matching up against the best players in the country and shutting them down. Her ability to create turnovers and push the tempo was one of the reasons why Notre Dame became one of the most dangerous teams in the country.

What truly set Hidalgo apart, however, was her ability to perform in clutch moments. Throughout the 2025 season, she led Notre Dame to several signature wins, often taking over games in the fourth quarter and making crucial plays when it mattered most. Whether it was hitting a game-winning shot or creating an assist to seal the win, Hidalgo was the go-to player for the Fighting Irish.

The Wooden Award Finalist Nomination

In recognition of her outstanding season, Hannah Hidalgo was named a Wooden Award Finalist in 2025. The Wooden Award is given annually to the best male and female college basketball player in the nation, and being named a finalist is a prestigious honor. The nomination is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and excellence that Hidalgo has displayed throughout her career.

Hidalgo’s Wooden Award candidacy was bolstered by her impressive individual statistics, but it was also a reflection of her overall impact on the game. As a leader for Notre Dame, she helped guide the Fighting Irish to one of the best seasons in recent memory. Her leadership and ability to perform on the biggest stage made her one of the top players in college basketball.

Her Wooden Award nomination was also a recognition of the work she has put in over the years. From her early days as a high school star to her rise as one of the best players in the country, Hidalgo has consistently worked to improve her game. Her relentless work ethic, combined with her natural talent, has made her one of the most respected players in the country.

The Impact of the Wooden Award on Hidalgo’s Legacy

Being named a Wooden Award finalist is a huge milestone for any player, but for someone like Hidalgo, it has the potential to shape her legacy in the sport. The Wooden Award has historically been given to players who go on to achieve great things in their careers, and it often serves as a springboard to future success. Winning the Wooden Award or even being named a finalist places a player in elite company.

For Hidalgo, this recognition further solidifies her place in the history of college basketball. It is a testament to her skill, leadership, and impact on the game. Beyond individual accolades, the Wooden Award also serves as a symbol of the values that Hidalgo embodies. She is not just a gifted athlete—she is a role model, a leader, and a representative of the work ethic required to succeed at the highest levels.

As a young woman in a sport that continues to grow in popularity and visibility, Hidalgo’s success is a shining example for the next generation of players. She has proven that with determination, hard work, and the right mindset, anything is possible.

The Future of Hannah Hidalgo

Looking ahead, the future seems bright for Hannah Hidalgo. Her name is now synonymous with excellence in college basketball, and the accolades and recognition will likely continue to roll in. Her ultimate goal, however, is to lead her team to a national championship, something that has eluded Notre Dame in recent years despite their success. Hidalgo’s leadership will be crucial in the postseason, as she looks to guide the Fighting Irish through the NCAA tournament and make a run for the title.

Beyond college basketball, Hidalgo’s potential on the professional stage is evident. She is a player who has the skills and mindset to succeed in the WNBA, and many believe she will make an immediate impact at the next level. Her combination of scoring, playmaking, and defense makes her a versatile player who could fit into almost any system. Whether she chooses to pursue a professional career after college or extend her time at Notre Dame, one thing is certain—Hannah Hidalgo’s future in basketball is incredibly bright.

Hannah Hidalgo’s nomination as a Wooden Award Finalist in 2025 is a well-deserved recognition of her hard work, talent, and leadership both on and off the basketball court. As one of the premier players in college basketball, Hidalgo has proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with, and her journey is far from over. The Wooden Award nomination serves as a reminder of her incredible journey—from a young girl with a dream to one of the top players in the nation. As she continues to pursue greatness, Hidalgo is poised to leave an indelible mark on the game of basketball for years to come.