Breaking News: Hannah Hidalgo Wins Sporting News National Player of the Year Award

Introduction: A Milestone for a Phenomenal Athlete

In a remarkable achievement for both her and the University of Notre Dame, Hannah Hidalgo, the standout guard for the Fighting Irish women’s basketball team, has been awarded the prestigious Sporting News National Player of the Year. This accolade is a significant milestone in Hidalgo’s already illustrious career, which has captivated fans across the country. As a player known for her incredible skill, work ethic, and leadership on the court, Hidalgo’s recognition as the National Player of the Year is a testament to her hard work and dedication to the game.

The announcement of Hidalgo’s win is not just a personal triumph but a momentous occasion for the Notre Dame women’s basketball program. Under the leadership of head coach Niele Ivey, the team has risen to prominence, and Hidalgo’s leadership has been integral in propelling them to the upper echelons of college basketball. With this honor, Hidalgo becomes the latest in a long line of exceptional athletes from Notre Dame to be recognized on the national stage.

Early Life and Journey to Notre Dame

Before becoming a household name in the basketball world, Hannah Hidalgo had to rise through adversity and prove herself on every level. Born and raised in the heart of New Jersey, Hidalgo was introduced to basketball at a young age. Her father, a former college basketball player, was a major influence on her early development, providing guidance and teaching her the fundamentals of the game. Her natural talent was evident from an early age, but it was her relentless drive to improve that set her apart from her peers.

Hidalgo attended Paul VI High School in Haddon Township, New Jersey, where she quickly established herself as one of the top high school basketball players in the country. Her high school career was nothing short of spectacular. By the time she graduated, she had accumulated numerous accolades, including All-State honors and being named a McDonald’s All-American.

Her decision to attend Notre Dame was one that many saw as a natural fit. The Fighting Irish were already a powerhouse in women’s college basketball, and the opportunity to play for a storied program under the leadership of coach Niele Ivey was one that Hidalgo could not pass up. From the moment she stepped on campus, Hidalgo showcased her talent, and it was clear she would become a key player for the team.

Rising Through the Ranks

Hidalgo’s freshman year at Notre Dame was a season of growth and adaptation. The jump from high school basketball to the collegiate level is never easy, and for a player as talented as Hidalgo, it was crucial to adjust both physically and mentally to the speed and intensity of the game. Despite the challenges, she quickly proved her worth, becoming an immediate contributor to the team.

Her combination of speed, court vision, and scoring ability made her a dynamic player for Notre Dame. One of her most impressive attributes was her ability to control the pace of the game. Whether it was pushing the ball up the court in transition or orchestrating the offense in half-court sets, Hidalgo demonstrated poise beyond her years. She also quickly gained a reputation as a clutch player, someone who could be relied upon in tight situations to make the big play.

By the end of her freshman season, Hidalgo had earned a starting role and was becoming one of the team’s most reliable players. Her scoring ability, playmaking, and leadership made her a force to be reckoned with in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), and she had become an integral part of Notre Dame’s success.

The 2024-2025 Season: A Year for the Ages

While Hidalgo’s first two years at Notre Dame were impressive, it was the 2024-2025 season that truly catapulted her into the national spotlight. From the very beginning of the season, it was clear that she had taken her game to another level. Her performance was nothing short of exceptional, as she led the Fighting Irish to an outstanding regular season and deep into the postseason.

One of the defining features of Hidalgo’s play this season was her ability to impact all areas of the game. She averaged an incredible 22 points per game, showcasing her scoring ability with a wide range of moves, from pulling up for mid-range jumpers to finishing strong at the rim. Her three-point shooting was also a key part of her offensive game, and she developed into one of the most dangerous perimeter shooters in the country.

In addition to her scoring, Hidalgo was also a masterful playmaker. She averaged 6 assists per game, demonstrating her exceptional court vision and basketball IQ. She had an uncanny ability to break down defenses and find open teammates, making her an integral part of Notre Dame’s offensive success. Her combination of scoring and playmaking was virtually unmatched in the college game this season.

On the defensive end, Hidalgo was just as effective. She had a knack for getting in passing lanes and disrupting opposing offenses. Her speed and anticipation allowed her to pressure the ball effectively, and she was often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best player. Her relentless energy on both sides of the floor made her a two-way force, and it was clear that she was a player who could change the course of a game with her efforts.

As the season progressed, Hidalgo continued to lead Notre Dame with both confidence and poise. She consistently delivered in big moments, whether it was hitting clutch shots in close games or making key assists in crucial possessions. Her leadership on and off the court was invaluable, and her ability to elevate the play of her teammates helped propel Notre Dame to new heights.

Breaking Records and Setting Milestones

Throughout the 2024-2025 season, Hannah Hidalgo achieved numerous individual milestones that further solidified her status as one of the best players in the nation. She became Notre Dame’s all-time leader in assists for a single season, breaking a record that had stood for decades. She also set the school record for points in a game, scoring 42 points in a thrilling victory against a top-ranked opponent.

Hidalgo’s efforts did not go unnoticed by the national media. She was consistently ranked among the top players in the country and earned multiple Player of the Week honors throughout the season. Her ability to perform at a high level against some of the toughest competition in the country was a testament to her skill and determination.

In addition to individual achievements, Hidalgo’s play was instrumental in helping Notre Dame reach the NCAA Tournament. The team entered the tournament as a top seed, and Hidalgo’s leadership and outstanding play carried them to the Final Four. With each passing game, it became clearer that she was the heart and soul of the Fighting Irish, and her performance was a major factor in their success.

The Sporting News National Player of the Year

As the season came to a close, there was little doubt that Hannah Hidalgo had earned the title of National Player of the Year. The Sporting News, one of the most respected outlets in the world of sports journalism, made the announcement, recognizing Hidalgo’s extraordinary impact on the game of women’s basketball.

In their coverage, Sporting News praised Hidalgo for her all-around game, highlighting her ability to score, distribute, and defend. They also noted her leadership and composure under pressure, which had helped guide Notre Dame through a challenging season. Hidalgo’s work ethic and commitment to improving her game were also mentioned as key factors in her rise to the top.

For Hidalgo, winning the National Player of the Year award was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. It was a recognition of her incredible talent and determination, as well as her role in elevating the Notre Dame women’s basketball program to new heights. She became the first Notre Dame player to win the prestigious award in over a decade, adding to the legacy of excellence that has defined the program.

Looking Ahead: The Future for Hannah Hidalgo

As Hannah Hidalgo’s remarkable college career continues to unfold, her future in basketball is bright. With her combination of skill, basketball IQ, and leadership, she has the potential to play at the professional level. Whether it is the WNBA or overseas, Hidalgo is well-positioned to have a successful career in basketball, and the accolades she has received throughout her time at Notre Dame are a testament to her incredible potential.

However, for now, Hidalgo’s focus remains on finishing strong with the Fighting Irish. As the NCAA Tournament draws closer, she and her teammates will look to secure a national championship, something that has long been a goal for Hidalgo and the Notre Dame program. With her leadership and talent, there is little doubt that she will continue to be a major force for Notre Dame as they aim for the ultimate prize.

 A Legacy of Excellence

Hannah Hidalgo’s journey to becoming the Sporting News National Player of the Year is a story of perseverance, dedication, and excellence. From her early days in New Jersey to her current status as one of the top players in the country, Hidalgo has proven time and again that she has what it takes to succeed at the highest levels. Her recognition as National Player of the Year is a fitting tribute to her hard work and success, and it solidifies her place in the history of Notre Dame women’s basketball.

As she continues to break barriers and set new records, there is no doubt that Hannah Hidalgo’s legacy will endure long after her college career ends. Whether she is leading the Fighting Irish to a national title or making an impact at the professional level, Hidalgo’s influence on the game of basketball will be felt for years to come.