Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo Shines on Both Ends of the Court
Hannah Hidalgo, a standout player for Notre Dame, has made a name for herself with her remarkable defensive skills. Known for studying game footage diligently, Hidalgo identifies strategies teams might use against her and uncovers opponents’ weaknesses to capitalize on steals.
The junior guard’s hard work is evident as she leads the nation with an average of 5.5 steals per game while also ranking third in scoring with 24.6 points per game. “I watch and see how the point guard or ballhandler handles the ball,” Hidalgo shared during a phone interview. “If they are a great ballhandler, knowing how to time my steals correctly. I always try to strike fear into the ballhandler any time they see me guarding them.”
Recently, Hidalgo set a new benchmark in Notre Dame’s history by surpassing Skylar Diggins to become the program’s career steals leader. Her record-breaking 388 steals have also placed her 50th in NCAA Division I history.
“She has an innate ability, she loves defending,” noted Notre Dame coach Niele Ivey. “She’s always been like that. She’d rather get steals first more than anything. I think it’s a gift. She’s so instinctive, she’s so fast. She has quick hands and feet. She’s aggressive and feisty. Now that she’s older, she’s got the IQ part of learning players’ habits.”
Hidalgo’s impact isn’t limited to defense; she excels on offense as well. She became the fastest in Notre Dame’s history to reach 2,000 points, achieving this milestone in just 86 games, surpassing Beth Morgan’s previous record of 109 games. Additionally, she broke the ACC record, previously held by Ta’Niya Latson and Barbara Kennedy, by three games.
“She’s been so pivotal in our success the last couple years,” Ivey said. “She’s blossomed in college. To come on the stage as a freshman and impact the game the way she has is pretty phenomenal. She’s consistently getting better every year.”
Beyond scoring, Hidalgo is recognized for her passing ability, which creates opportunities for her teammates. “I know the impact I have for my team,” she explained. “I think when it comes to taking over to the game, it’s not just scoring, but creating for other players. Do whatever my team needs me to do.”
Off the court, Hidalgo has grown as a leader, a development that coach Ivey has observed with appreciation. “She’s being that vocal person for us, being that messenger,” Ivey remarked. “Being an extension of me on the court. She holds herself accountable. Being a leader, that’s what she really worked on.”
Hidalgo emphasized her efforts to connect with her teammates beyond basketball. “I think for me it was being more intentional to know players outside of basketball,” she said. “Being more intentional, checking in on players during the summer time. Go out and eat with them, take them out to games. Connecting with them off the court.”
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