In a thrilling NCAA Tournament Round of 32 matchup, Notre Dame Women’s Basketball overcame an early deficit to defeat the Ohio State Buckeyes 83-73 in Columbus, Ohio, on March 23, 2026. This victory not only secured their place in the Sweet Sixteen but also highlighted the resilience and determination of the Fighting Irish.
Notre Dame faced an 11-0 deficit at the start of the game, a challenging situation that could have derailed their tournament hopes. However, the team rallied, outscoring Ohio State 83-62 after that rocky start. Hannah Hidalgo was a standout performer, scoring 26 points and grabbing a career-high 13 rebounds, while also matching her own program record with eight steals.
Key moments
The game was marked by impressive performances from several players. In addition to Hidalgo’s contributions, five players from Notre Dame scored in double figures, showcasing the team’s depth and offensive versatility. In stark contrast, Jaloni Cambridge was the sole bright spot for Ohio State, scoring an impressive 41 points but receiving little support from her teammates, as no other player reached double digits.
This victory is significant for Notre Dame, marking their fifth consecutive appearance in the Sweet Sixteen. The team’s journey to this point has been remarkable, especially considering they were projected as a No. 9 seed in late January before turning their season around. Their ability to face adversity and emerge victorious speaks volumes about their character and determination.
“We knew they were going to come out hot. For us, it was facing adversity and knowing we’ll have our time,” said Vanessa de Jesus, reflecting on the team’s mindset during the game. This sentiment of resilience was echoed by Hidalgo, who remarked, “I don’t ever really know my stats, I’m just out there hooping,” emphasizing her focus on the game rather than individual accolades.
Hidalgo also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue competing, stating, “I give all glory to [God] to be able to be in this position and to keep dancing, because nobody believed in us.” Such statements highlight the emotional weight of this victory for the players, who have worked hard to prove their doubters wrong.
Cassandre Prosper, another key player for Notre Dame, shared her thoughts on the significance of returning to the Sweet Sixteen. “To be back in the Sweet Sixteen this year, it means the world. Knowing how much work and effort I put in personally trying to regrow and build this team, it means a lot,” she said, underscoring the personal stakes involved in their success.
As Notre Dame Women’s Basketball prepares for their next challenge in the tournament, the excitement and anticipation surrounding the team continue to grow. Their ability to overcome early setbacks and perform under pressure will be crucial as they aim to advance further in the NCAA Tournament. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as this talented group of athletes seeks to make their mark on the national stage.