Hannah Hidalgo, a sophomore point guard for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, has been recognized as the 2025 National Player of the Year, underscoring her exceptional talent and leadership on the basketball court.
**Early Life and High School Career**
Born on February 22, 2005, in Merchantville, New Jersey, Hidalgo attended Paul VI High School in Haddonfield, New Jersey. Under the guidance of her father, Orlando Hidalgo, she showcased remarkable skills, averaging 28.8 points, 7.3 steals, 6.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game during her senior year. Her outstanding performance earned her the Courier-Post Player of the Year award for the third consecutive season and the New Jersey Gatorade Player of the Year honor. Hidalgo concluded her high school career as the school’s all-time leading scorer with 2,135 points.
**College Career at Notre Dame**
Hidalgo committed to the University of Notre Dame, where she made an immediate impact. In her freshman season (2023-2024), she averaged 22.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and led the nation with 4.6 steals per game. Her stellar performance earned her first-team All-American honors from the Associated Press, second-team All-American recognition from the U.S. Basketball Writers Association, and the Dawn Staley Award, which honors the best Division I guard.
Entering her sophomore year (2024-2025), Hidalgo continued to excel. She became the fastest player in Notre Dame history to reach 1,000 career points, achieving this milestone in just 44 games. Notably, she scored a season-high 34 points in a victory over Louisville on February 2, 2025.
**National Player of the Year Recognition**
Hidalgo’s exceptional performance throughout the 2024-2025 season culminated in her being named the National Player of the Year. Her accolades include leading the nation in scoring, averaging nearly 26 points per game, and maintaining a field goal percentage of over 50%. Her defensive prowess is equally impressive, ranking third nationally with 4.0 steals per game. These achievements have solidified her status as a premier player in women’s college basketball.
**Impact and Legacy**
Hidalgo’s journey from a high school standout to a collegiate superstar exemplifies her dedication and skill. Her leadership on and off the court has been instrumental in Notre Dame’s success, inspiring future generations of basketball players. As she continues her collegiate career, Hidalgo’s influence is expected to extend beyond the basketball court, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.
