Notre Dame Guard Named USA Female Basketball Player Of the year
Hannah Hidalgo, a sophomore point guard for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, has emerged as a transformative figure in women’s college basketball. Her exceptional skills, leadership qualities, and unwavering dedication have not only elevated her team’s performance but have also earned her prestigious individual honors, including the USA Basketball Female Athlete of the Year award. This accolade highlights her profound impact on the sport and solidifies her status as one of the premier talents in collegiate basketball.​
Early Life and High School Career
Hannah Hidalgo’s journey to basketball prominence began in Belmar, New Jersey, where she showcased her athletic prowess from a young age. Her passion for basketball was evident early on, leading her to become a standout player at St. Rose High School. Throughout her high school career, Hidalgo amassed numerous accolades, including multiple state championships and recognition as a McDonald’s All-American. In the McDonald’s All-American Game, she delivered a record-breaking performance, scoring 26 points and matching the game’s record with eight steals, underscoring her readiness for collegiate competition. FW Sports​
Transition to Notre Dame
In 2024, Hidalgo joined the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, a program renowned for its rich basketball legacy. Despite being a freshman, she seamlessly adapted to the collegiate level, quickly earning the role of starting point guard. Her inaugural season was marked by impressive statistics, averaging 14.4 points, 6.1 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game. Her playmaking abilities and leadership on the court were instrumental in Notre Dame’s Top 10 national ranking that year. namemanner​
Sophomore Season Excellence
The 2025 season saw Hidalgo elevate her game to new heights. She averaged 19.8 points, 8.5 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game, solidifying her status as a top player in the nation. Her scoring versatility, from three-point shooting to mid-range jumpers, combined with her exceptional court vision, made her a formidable presence. A standout moment came in a December matchup against UConn, where Hidalgo scored 29 points, including a pivotal step-back three-pointer in the closing seconds, leading Notre Dame to a 75-71 victory. ESPN.com​
National Recognition
Hidalgo’s contributions extended beyond individual games. Her leadership and consistent performance throughout the season earned her the National Player of the Year award in 2025. This honor recognized her as the premier player in women’s college basketball, reflecting her impact on and off the court. namemanner​
USA Basketball Female Athlete of the Year
In addition to her collegiate achievements, Hidalgo’s international contributions were significant. In July 2023, she played a pivotal role in leading Team USA to a gold medal at the FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup in Madrid. Throughout the tournament, she averaged 10.7 points and 5.4 assists per game, setting Team USA single-game records in steals (8) and assists (13). Her performance was instrumental in the team’s undefeated run to the championship. Recognizing her exceptional contributions, she was honored with the USA Basketball 5-on-5 Female Athlete of the Year award, joining the ranks of notable past recipients. notredame.rivals.com​
Playing Style and Impact
Hannah Hidalgo’s playing style is characterized by her exceptional court vision, leadership, and scoring versatility. As a point guard, she excels in orchestrating the offense, setting up teammates, and making decisive plays. Her ability to read defenses and make split-second decisions has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats. Defensively, she is known for her tenacity, often guarding the opposing team’s best player and creating turnovers that lead to fast-break opportunities. Her leadership extends beyond statistics; her presence elevates the performance of those around her, fostering a culture of excellence within the team.​
Looking Ahead
As Hannah Hidalgo continues her collegiate career, the basketball community watches with anticipation. Her trajectory suggests a future filled with continued success, both at the collegiate level and potentially in professional arenas. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, demonstrating the impact of talent, hard work, and leadership. With her sights set on further achievements, Hidalgo’s journey is far from over, and her influence on the sport is poised to grow in the coming years.​
