Hannah Hidalgo recently reached a major milestone in Notre Dame’s close game against Duke, where the Irish fell 65-63 in the ACC Tournament semifinals. She now holds the title of the second-highest scorer in Notre Dame women’s basketball history, surpassing Skylar Diggins.
In a game where the Irish struggled early, trailing 10-0 and 15-2, Hidalgo played a critical role. She scored 24 points and grabbed eight rebounds, helping her team close the gap with a key three-pointer. Her success emphasises not just her talent but also the importance of building a strong roster around her, especially as she aims for a spot as one of the greatest players in Notre Dame history.
Coach Niele Ivey praised her team’s resilience. “This group has grown,” she said. Despite the tough loss, Ivey believes they’ve learned valuable lessons that will help them moving forward. Notre Dame’s next challenge could be reaching the Sweet 16 for a fifth consecutive year, but they’d likely need to face strong competitors like Duke or Louisville to get there.
Hidalgo’s work on the court demonstrates a crucial aspect of her leadership: trusting her teammates. On a final possession where she had the chance to shoot, she opted to pass to Cass Prosper, who unfortunately missed the shot. “It would be hypocritical of me not to trust them,” Hidalgo explained. Their bond and teamwork will be vital as they continue their journey.
Looking to the future, Notre Dame is focused on strengthening its roster. As of now, several key players will depart after this season. The program hopes to attract new talent, including potential transfers, to ensure they remain competitive. With a strong recruiting class coming in, including four Rivals top 25 players, the outlook is promising.
As the Irish prepare for the next steps, they are reminded of the importance of supporting their standout players like Hidalgo. Her journey has not just marked personal achievements; it has the potential to elevate the team’s future. A commitment to excellence will be crucial if they want to fulfill their potential in upcoming tournaments.
In the world of sports, building a strong team isn’t just about individual talent; it’s about creating an environment where everyone can grow together. The Irish have the opportunity to do just that in the coming seasons.
For more insights on NCAA women’s basketball, you can visit [NCAA Women’s Basketball](https://www.ncaa.com/womens-basketball).
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