What impact has Hannah Hidalgo’s performance had during March Madness? Despite her remarkable statistics and achievements, Hidalgo was not selected as a finalist for the Naismith Award, which has sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike.
Hidalgo, a guard for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish women’s basketball team, has had an extraordinary season, averaging 25.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 5.6 steals per game. Her performance culminated in a standout game against Vanderbilt, where she recorded a triple-double with 31 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 steals.
This game not only showcased her talent but also set multiple records: Hidalgo broke the NCAA single-season steals record with 199 steals and achieved a new NCAA tournament record for total steals in one tournament with 26 steals. Furthermore, she became the second player in NCAA tournament history to achieve a triple-double with steals.
Hidalgo’s contributions were pivotal in leading Notre Dame to a 67-64 victory over Vanderbilt, allowing them to advance to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2019. Despite starting the season with a 13-8 record and earning a No. 6 seed in the NCAA tournament, her performance has been a game changer.
Her coach, Niele Ivey, and teammates have praised her efforts, with KK Bransford stating, “Hannah is the player of the year.” Hidalgo herself expressed her feelings during the game, saying, “I felt like I was floating.”
Looking ahead, Notre Dame is set to face top-seeded UConn for a coveted spot in the Final Four. The outcome of this match could further define Hidalgo’s legacy in collegiate basketball.
As discussions continue regarding her omission from the Naismith Award finalists, the basketball community remains captivated by her journey and what lies ahead. Details remain unconfirmed about the reasons behind the selection process for the award.