Why was Hannah Hidalgo, a standout player for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, not selected as a finalist for the Naismith Award despite her remarkable season? The answer lies in the competitive landscape of women’s college basketball, where even extraordinary performances can sometimes go unrecognized.
Hidalgo has been a force on the court, averaging 25.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 5.6 steals per game during the 2025-2026 season. Her statistics are impressive, yet they did not translate into a nomination for the prestigious award, which has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
In a recent March Madness game against Vanderbilt, Hidalgo showcased her skills by recording a triple-double with 31 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 steals. This performance not only helped Notre Dame secure a 67-64 victory but also marked her as the second player in NCAA tournament history to achieve a triple-double with steals. Furthermore, she broke the NCAA single-season steals record with a total of 199 steals.
Hidalgo’s ten steals in the game against Vanderbilt set a new NCAA tournament record for total steals in one tournament, bringing her total to 26. Her remarkable defensive prowess earned her the title of ACC Defensive Player of the Year, yet the absence from the Naismith Award finalists list remains a point of contention.
“Hannah is the player of the year,” said her teammate KK Bransford, emphasizing the impact Hidalgo has had on the team’s success. Meanwhile, Hidalgo herself expressed a sense of euphoria during her standout performance, stating, “I felt like I was floating.”
As Notre Dame advances to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2019, they are set to face top-seeded UConn for a chance to reach the Final Four. This matchup will be crucial not only for the team but also for Hidalgo, who continues to prove her worth on the national stage.
Despite the accolades and records, the question remains: what more does Hidalgo need to do to gain recognition among the elite of women’s college basketball? As she prepares for the next challenge, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain on her, and the conversation surrounding her Naismith Award omission is likely to continue.
Hidalgo’s journey this season has been one of resilience and determination, and her performance in the tournament has solidified her status as one of the premier players in the game today. With the stakes higher than ever, all eyes will be on her as she aims to lead Notre Dame to new heights.
