Hannah Hidalgo Finds Her March Mode in Notre Dame’s Win Over Louisville
March is the time when college basketball’s biggest stars shine the brightest, and Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo is proving to be no exception. After a tough loss to Florida State, the Fighting Irish needed a statement win to regain momentum heading into the NCAA Tournament. Hidalgo answered the call with a standout performance in Notre Dame’s victory over Louisville, showing exactly why she is considered one of the most electrifying players in the country.
The shift in her game was evident—not just in the box score, but in the way she commanded the court and elevated her teammates. Hidalgo has officially entered “March Mode,” and if her recent performance is any indication, she’s just getting started.
A Tale of Two Performances: Florida State vs. Louisville
In Notre Dame’s loss to Florida State, Hidalgo struggled to find her rhythm. The Seminoles’ defense was relentless, forcing her into tough shots and limiting her ability to create easy opportunities for her teammates. While she still managed to contribute, it wasn’t the type of performance she knew she was capable of delivering.
Against Louisville, however, Hidalgo flipped the switch. She played with an aggressive yet controlled energy, attacking the basket, setting up her teammates, and playing tough defense. Her decision-making was sharper, her movements more deliberate, and her leadership more vocal. The contrast between the two games showcased her growth and resilience—qualities that will be crucial as Notre Dame makes a push for a deep tournament run.
The Mindset Shift: Winning as a Team
After the win over Louisville, Hidalgo made it clear that her focus is on elevating her team, not just her individual performance.
“I can’t win a national championship by myself,” Hidalgo said. “I got to get my teammates involved.”
This mentality is what separates good players from great ones. While Hidalgo has the ability to take over a game, she understands that true success comes from playing within the system and making those around her better. Against Louisville, she did exactly that, balancing her scoring with smart passing and unselfish play.
What Makes Hidalgo So Special?
Hidalgo’s ability to impact the game in multiple ways is what makes her such a dangerous player. She can score at all three levels—driving to the rim with speed and control, pulling up for mid-range jumpers, and knocking down shots from beyond the arc. Her defensive intensity is equally impressive, as she frequently disrupts passing lanes and forces turnovers that lead to fast-break opportunities.
Beyond her physical skills, Hidalgo’s competitiveness and passion set her apart. She plays with an edge, a fire that ignites her teammates and energizes the crowd. When she steps onto the court, it’s clear that she isn’t just playing to win—she’s playing to dominate.
The Road Ahead: Can Notre Dame Make a Deep Run?
With Hidalgo leading the charge, Notre Dame has the potential to make a serious run in the NCAA Tournament. However, the road won’t be easy. The competition will only get tougher, and every team they face will be prepared to challenge them.
For the Fighting Irish to succeed, they will need to build on the momentum from the Louisville win. That means continuing to share the ball, playing disciplined defense, and maintaining the high level of intensity that Hidalgo brings to every game.
Another key factor will be consistency. As seen in the Florida State game, even a player as talented as Hidalgo can have off nights. The challenge moving forward will be ensuring that both she and her teammates remain locked in, game after game, regardless of the opponent.
Final Thoughts: The Rise of a March Superstar
March Madness has a way of making stars out of college basketball’s most talented players, and Hannah Hidalgo is embracing that moment. Her ability to bounce back from adversity, adjust her game, and lead her team is a testament to her maturity and skill.
The best players understand that individual brilliance alone isn’t enough to win championships. Hidalgo’s realization that she must bring out the best in her teammates is a sign of her evolution as both a player and a leader.
If she continues to play with the same energy and efficiency that she showed against Louisville, there’s no telling how far Notre Dame can go. One thing is certain—Hidalgo is in March Mode, and the rest of the NCAA better be ready.