Notre Dame’s standout guard, Hannah Hidalgo, has once again been named a finalist for the prestigious John R. Wooden Award, marking her second consecutive year in contention for this honor. The Wooden Award is presented annually to the most outstanding player in college basketball, and Hidalgo’s consistent excellence on the court has rightfully earned her a place among the nation’s elite.
A Season of Stellar Performances
Throughout the 2024-2025 season, Hidalgo has been a driving force for the Fighting Irish. She leads the team with an impressive average of 24.2 points per game, a figure that places her fourth nationally. Her defensive prowess is equally notable, with 3.7 steals per game, also ranking her fourth in the nation. Beyond scoring and defense, Hidalgo contributes significantly in other facets of the game, averaging 6.4 assists and 5.9 rebounds per contest. Her shooting efficiency is commendable, boasting a 49.6% field goal percentage and a 40.9% success rate from three-point range.
Dominance Against Fellow Finalists
Hidalgo’s performances against other Wooden Award finalists underscore her competitive edge. Notre Dame faced three of the other four finalists during the season, emerging victorious in all three matchups. In these high-stakes games, Hidalgo averaged 27.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, 6.7 assists, and 3.7 steals, showcasing her ability to excel against top-tier competition.
Notable Matchups:
- Against UConn and Paige Bueckers: On December 12, 2024, Notre Dame handed No. 2 UConn its first loss of the season with a 79-68 victory. Hidalgo was instrumental, recording 29 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists, and 3 steals. Bueckers, a formidable opponent, tallied 25 points but couldn’t propel her team to victory.
- Against Southern California and JuJu Watkins: Earlier in the season, Notre Dame faced off against Southern California, led by standout guard JuJu Watkins. Hidalgo’s exceptional play was pivotal in securing a win, further cementing her reputation as a clutch performer.
- Against UCLA and Lauren Betts: In a matchup against UCLA, featuring dominant center Lauren Betts, Hidalgo’s versatility and leadership were on full display, contributing significantly to Notre Dame’s triumph.
Recognition and Accolades
Hidalgo’s exceptional season has garnered widespread recognition. Alongside teammate Olivia Miles, she was named to the Wooden Award National Ballot, making Notre Dame one of only four schools with multiple players on the list. This acknowledgment reflects the depth and talent of the Fighting Irish roster.
Furthermore, Hidalgo’s consistent excellence has positioned her as a leading candidate for other national honors, including the Naismith Player of the Year Award. Her ability to deliver standout performances in crucial moments has not gone unnoticed by analysts and fans alike.
Impact Beyond Statistics
Beyond her impressive statistics, Hidalgo’s leadership and resilience have been invaluable to Notre Dame. Her work ethic and determination set a standard for her teammates, fostering a culture of excellence within the program. Hidalgo’s journey, marked by continuous improvement and an unwavering commitment to her craft, serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Hidalgo to see if she can cap off her remarkable campaign with the Wooden Award trophy. Regardless of the outcome, her contributions have left an indelible mark on Notre Dame’s basketball legacy. Fans and analysts alike eagerly anticipate her future endeavors, both at the collegiate level and beyond.
Conclusion
Hannah Hidalgo’s recognition as a Wooden Award finalist for the second consecutive year is a testament to her outstanding abilities and impact on the court. Her performances against fellow top players, leadership qualities, and statistical achievements highlight her as one of college basketball’s premier talents. As she continues to lead the Fighting Irish, Hidalgo’s legacy as a transformative player for Notre Dame basketball is firmly established.
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