She has done it again: Notre Dame women’s basketball guard Hannah Hidalgo has been named Sporting News National Player of the Year, further solidifying her place as one of the most dynamic and accomplished players in college basketball. Hidalgo’s achievement comes as no surprise to those who have watched her rise to prominence over the past few seasons, showcasing her incredible skill, leadership, and determination. As the heart and soul of the Notre Dame basketball team, her performance this season has been nothing short of exceptional.
Hidalgo’s journey to this prestigious honor has been filled with hard work, dedication, and an unwavering passion for the game. Known for her explosive speed, exceptional ball-handling, and the ability to score in a variety of ways, she has consistently demonstrated that she is a force to be reckoned with on the court. Her leadership extends beyond her impressive statistics, as she inspires her teammates with her relentless work ethic and unshakeable focus.
The Sporting News National Player of the Year award is a testament to Hidalgo’s immense talent and the impact she has had on the game this season. With this honor, she joins a select group of players who have left an indelible mark on college basketball. But despite the accolades and recognition, Hidalgo remains humble, crediting her success to her coaches, teammates, and the Notre Dame program that has supported her every step of the way.
In addition to this remarkable achievement, Hidalgo delivered a powerful message to her head coach, highlighting her gratitude and determination. In her message, she expressed her deep appreciation for the trust and guidance provided by the coaching staff, especially throughout the challenges faced during the season. Hidalgo emphasized how the team’s success has been a collective effort and credited the coach for helping her grow not just as a player, but as a person.
She shared that the trust placed in her to lead the team has been one of the most rewarding experiences of her career. “I couldn’t have done this without the support of my coach and teammates,” Hidalgo said. “Their belief in me has pushed me to be better every day.” This display of humility and teamwork reflects the true spirit of leadership, where individual success is celebrated as part of a broader team effort.
Hidalgo’s future looks incredibly bright as she continues to set new standards for excellence in college basketball.