Congratulations! South Bend, Indiana Hannah Hidalgo, a Fighting Irish guard, won the USA Female Basketball Player of the Year award in a decisive win for Notre Dame and women’s collegiate basketball.

South Bend, Indiana – In a season brimming with exceptional talent, it was Hannah Hidalgo, the dynamic and resilient guard from the University of Notre Dame, who emerged as the 2025 USA Female Basketball Player of the Year. This prestigious award is a testament to Hidalgo’s remarkable skill, determination, and leadership on the court, which helped propel the Fighting Irish to new heights and showcased the growing prominence of women’s collegiate basketball. With this achievement, Hidalgo not only secured a major milestone in her career but also made a resounding statement about the rising talent in the NCAA and the continued evolution of women’s sports.

Hannah Hidalgo’s journey to earning the USA Female Basketball Player of the Year award was nothing short of extraordinary. Her 2024-2025 season with the Fighting Irish was one of the most dominant in the history of college basketball. With an exceptional blend of speed, precision, and basketball IQ, Hidalgo led Notre Dame to an impressive 32-3 record and a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. Her performances on both ends of the floor were exceptional, earning her recognition as not only one of the most skilled players in the country but also one of its most exciting young stars.

Hidalgo’s ability to control the game and her unyielding competitiveness were crucial to Notre Dame’s success. Whether it was dropping 30 points in a crucial match-up against a top-ranked opponent, executing clutch assists in the closing moments, or locking down opposing guards with her tenacious defense, Hidalgo’s presence was undeniable. Her combination of offensive prowess and defensive resilience made her a nightmare for opposing teams, and her performances led her to become the consensus choice for the USA Female Basketball Player of the Year.

While individual accolades often shine brightest, it is the success of the team that truly reflects a player’s impact. In Hidalgo’s case, her influence on Notre Dame’s success was immeasurable. Her leadership qualities came to the forefront as she guided the Fighting Irish to a dominant season in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), where they finished atop the standings. Her role as a playmaker and scorer became a focal point for Notre Dame’s offense, but it was her selflessness and ability to make her teammates better that stood out most.

One of the defining moments of Hidalgo’s season came in the ACC Championship Game, where she delivered a performance for the ages. With her team facing a tough opponent in a high-pressure situation, Hidalgo’s poise and composure shone through. Her 12 assists and 25 points, including several key three-pointers in the final minutes, helped Notre Dame secure the victory and further cement Hidalgo’s reputation as one of the best to ever wear a Fighting Irish jersey.

Her leadership extended beyond the box score. Hidalgo’s work ethic and commitment to excellence made her a role model for her teammates. She wasn’t just a star player; she was the driving force behind a culture of excellence at Notre Dame. Her tireless work ethic in practice, her focus during film sessions, and her ability to keep her teammates engaged and motivated even when things weren’t going their way made her the heart and soul of the Fighting Irish’s success.

Hidalgo’s playing style is a blend of creativity, precision, and calculated risk-taking. Standing at 5’9″, she isn’t the tallest guard on the court, but what she lacks in size, she more than makes up for in her basketball intelligence. Her ability to read defenses and exploit gaps is second to none. Hidalgo is a nightmare in transition, using her quickness and speed to accelerate past defenders before they can react. Her ball-handling and court vision make her an elite point guard, while her shooting range stretches well beyond the three-point line, making her a dual threat.

One of Hidalgo’s most unique attributes is her decision-making under pressure. Whether it’s a fast break or a half-court set, she has an uncanny ability to make the right decision at the right time. She can thread a pass through tight windows or take the ball to the rim herself. In clutch moments, she is known for her ability to stay calm and execute at the highest level, making her a player who rises to the occasion when her team needs her most.

Her defensive tenacity is equally impressive. Hidalgo has become known for her ability to shut down opposing guards and disrupt passing lanes. Her anticipation of plays and ability to read her opponent’s movements make her a constant threat on the defensive end. Whether it’s forcing turnovers or contesting shots, she has consistently shown that her game is just as well-rounded on defense as it is on offense.

Hidalgo’s success extends far beyond her accolades on the court. As a Hispanic-American player, she has broken barriers and become a symbol of perseverance for young athletes who may not always see themselves represented in the highest levels of women’s basketball. She has always made it clear that she plays not only for herself but also for the future generations of players who will look to her as an example of what’s possible with hard work and dedication.

Her rise to prominence in the world of women’s basketball has inspired countless young athletes, especially those from underrepresented communities. Through her social media platforms, Hidalgo has used her voice to promote diversity in sports, raise awareness about important social issues, and advocate for equal opportunities for women athletes. Her advocacy for women’s sports has garnered significant attention, as she continues to use her platform to fight for greater recognition and respect for women’s collegiate athletics.

At a time when women’s sports are gaining significant ground in terms of visibility and recognition, Hidalgo’s contributions to the advancement of women’s basketball cannot be overstated. Her success is a testament to the evolution of the game, and her efforts off the court are just as significant as her feats on it.

Hannah Hidalgo’s victory in being named the 2025 USA Female Basketball Player of the Year is not just a personal achievement but also a defining moment in the history of Notre Dame women’s basketball. She has now etched her name among the all-time greats in the sport, joining an elite group of players who have made indelible marks on the college basketball landscape.

Her story is one of perseverance, growth, and extraordinary talent. From her early years, where she demonstrated a natural aptitude for the game, to her rise as one of the most dominant players in the NCAA, Hidalgo’s journey has been one of hard work and dedication. Her achievements will resonate for years to come, both in the annals of Notre Dame history and in the wider world of women’s collegiate basketball.

While her individual accomplishments are extraordinary, it is her impact on the game and her ability to inspire that will ultimately define her legacy. As women’s basketball continues to grow in prominence, Hidalgo will be remembered as one of the key players who helped pave the way for future generations of athletes.

As the 2025 WNBA Draft looms on the horizon, all eyes will be on Hannah Hidalgo, who is widely expected to be one of the top picks. Her combination of leadership, skill, and competitive fire make her a perfect fit for the next level. While her time at Notre Dame may soon come to an end, the impact she has had on the program and the broader landscape of women’s college basketball will be felt for years to come.

For now, Hidalgo continues to focus on finishing her collegiate career on a high note, leading Notre Dame through the postseason with one goal in mind: to capture a national championship. Whether she’s wearing the Fighting Irish green and gold or representing the United States on the international stage, there’s no doubt that Hidalgo’s future is incredibly bright.

In the end, the 2025 USA Female Basketball Player of the Year award is just another chapter in a career that has only just begun. With her talent, leadership, and unwavering drive, Hannah Hidalgo is sure to leave an indelible mark on the world of basketball for years to come.