In the world of college basketball, there are moments that stand out, capturing the attention of fans, analysts, and players alike. For Notre Dame women’s basketball, 2025 will be remembered as the year one of their brightest stars, Hannah Hidalgo, etched her name in history. The sophomore point guard has recently been recognized as the 2025 National Player of the Year, a well-deserved accolade that underscores her exceptional skills, leadership, and ability to elevate her team to new heights.
Hidalgo’s journey to this point has been one of determination, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. From her early years in basketball to becoming the face of Notre Dame’s championship aspirations, her rise has been nothing short of remarkable. This article will explore her path to success, the qualities that make her a standout player, her impact on Notre Dame, and what this award means for her future in the sport.
The Early Years: A Foundation of Hard Work
Hannah Hidalgo’s basketball journey began long before she stepped onto the college court. Growing up, Hidalgo was always drawn to the game. Raised in a family that appreciated sports, she was exposed to basketball at an early age. Her father, a former athlete, played a crucial role in shaping her interest in the game. He would spend hours with her in their backyard, teaching her the fundamentals and instilling in her the values of hard work and discipline.
By the time she reached high school, Hidalgo had become a standout player in her hometown. Playing for her high school team, she quickly gained a reputation for her exceptional court vision, basketball IQ, and ability to distribute the ball. Her leadership skills were apparent early on, as she effortlessly directed her teammates and orchestrated plays with precision. In a highly competitive league, Hidalgo’s performances turned heads, and it wasn’t long before college scouts began to take notice.
What set Hidalgo apart from her peers was her relentless drive to improve. Despite her natural talent, she was never satisfied with merely being good; she always pushed herself to be better. Whether it was refining her shooting mechanics, improving her footwork, or becoming a more vocal leader on the court, Hidalgo’s work ethic was unmatched.
Her high school career culminated in a series of accolades, including numerous all-state selections and invitations to prestigious national tournaments. By the time she graduated, it was clear that she was destined for greatness. The question was not if she would play at the next level, but where.
The Notre Dame Decision: A Perfect Fit
When it came time for Hidalgo to choose a college, the decision was not an easy one. Many top programs were interested in the talented point guard, but Notre Dame offered something special—a combination of championship pedigree, a strong basketball culture, and an opportunity to shine on the national stage.
Notre Dame women’s basketball has long been one of the most successful programs in the country, with multiple national championships and a history of producing WNBA talent. The program’s head coach, Niele Ivey, had a vision for the future of Notre Dame basketball, and Hidalgo fit perfectly into that vision. Ivey, a former player for the Fighting Irish, was known for her ability to develop point guards, and she saw in Hidalgo a player with the potential to lead the program to new heights.
From the moment Hidalgo arrived on campus, it was clear that she was going to make an immediate impact. Her ability to run the offense, set up teammates, and take over games when needed made her one of the most dynamic point guards in the country. In her freshman year, she quickly became a key contributor, helping Notre Dame reach the NCAA Tournament and earning a spot on the All-Freshman Team.
However, it was her sophomore year that truly put her on the map. With her confidence at an all-time high and her skills refined, Hidalgo emerged as one of the most dominant players in college basketball.
The 2025 Season: A Breakout Year
The 2025 season marked a turning point for Hannah Hidalgo. While she had already established herself as a force to be reckoned with, she took her game to an entirely new level this year. Her all-around play—scoring, passing, defending—was nothing short of extraordinary, and she consistently delivered in high-pressure moments.
Hidalgo’s scoring ability was on full display throughout the season. She averaged over 20 points per game, showcasing an array of skills that made her nearly impossible to guard. Whether it was her deadly jump shot from beyond the arc, her ability to drive to the basket with strength and finesse, or her clutch free-throw shooting, Hidalgo was a constant scoring threat.
But it wasn’t just her scoring that made her so valuable; it was her ability to get her teammates involved. As a point guard, she orchestrated Notre Dame’s offense with precision, always making the right decision and putting her teammates in a position to succeed. Her vision and basketball IQ were unparalleled, and she quickly became one of the best playmakers in the country. She averaged over 7 assists per game, often making highlight-reel passes that left fans and analysts in awe.
On the defensive end, Hidalgo’s tenacity and ability to disrupt opposing offenses were equally impressive. Her quick hands and defensive awareness allowed her to rack up steals and deflections, and she was often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best player. Despite her relatively small frame compared to some of her opponents, Hidalgo’s physicality and competitive fire made her a nightmare to deal with.
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish went on an incredible run in the NCAA Tournament, with Hidalgo leading the way. She carried the team through a series of tough matchups, with each performance reinforcing her claim as one of the best players in the country. In the national championship game, Hidalgo put on a masterclass in point guard play, scoring 25 points and dishing out 10 assists in a victory that secured Notre Dame’s place at the top of the college basketball world.
Her remarkable performance in the tournament, combined with her stellar regular-season numbers, made it clear that Hidalgo was the player to beat for the National Player of the Year award. When the announcement was finally made, it was no surprise to anyone who had followed her journey. Hannah Hidalgo had earned the honor, cementing her status as one of the brightest stars in women’s college basketball.
Impact on Notre Dame and the Women’s Game
Hidalgo’s recognition as National Player of the Year is a testament not only to her individual brilliance but also to the culture of excellence at Notre Dame. Under head coach Niele Ivey’s leadership, the Fighting Irish have become a dominant force in women’s basketball, and Hidalgo’s play has been a driving factor in their success. Her leadership on and off the court has been a key factor in Notre Dame’s ability to consistently compete at the highest level.
For the women’s game as a whole, Hidalgo’s rise is a welcome reminder of the growing talent pool and the increasing visibility of women’s sports. Her performances have drawn attention to the level of skill and athleticism present in college women’s basketball, and her success will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of players. Hidalgo’s story is one of perseverance, hard work, and the pursuit of greatness, and it serves as a powerful example for young athletes who aspire to reach the pinnacle of their sport.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Hannah Hidalgo
As the 2025 season comes to a close, the future looks incredibly bright for Hannah Hidalgo. While she has already accomplished so much in her young career, this is just the beginning. With another two years of eligibility remaining, she has the chance to continue building on her legacy at Notre Dame, perhaps leading the team to more championships and adding to her list of individual honors.
Hidalgo’s success has also opened doors for her beyond college basketball. As one of the top players in the country, she is already generating significant attention from WNBA scouts, and many believe she has the potential to become a top pick in the draft when she eventually decides to make the leap to the professional ranks.
Regardless of where her career takes her, one thing is certain: Hannah Hidalgo’s name will forever be associated with excellence in women’s basketball. Her journey from a promising high school talent to National Player of the Year is a testament to her hard work, talent, and unwavering commitment to becoming the best.