Notre Dame’s rising star, Hannah Hidalgo, continues to make history as she adds another prestigious accolade to her growing list of achievements. The WNBA has officially honored the standout guard with the Rookie of the Year Award, cementing her place among the league’s brightest young talents. Hidalgo’s dominance throughout the season made her the clear frontrunner, and this latest recognition solidifies her status as one of the most electrifying players in women’s basketball.
Hidalgo, who was selected third overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft by the Indiana Fever, wasted no time making an impact. Her explosive speed, sharp court vision, and fearless scoring ability quickly made her a fan favorite. Throughout the season, she averaged 18.4 points, 6.7 assists, and 2.3 steals per game, showcasing her versatility and tenacity on both ends of the floor.
“It’s truly an honor to be recognized at this level,” Hidalgo said during her acceptance speech. “I’ve worked incredibly hard to reach this point, and I’m grateful for my teammates, coaches, and fans who have supported me every step of the way.”
The award makes Hidalgo the first Notre Dame player in WNBA history to claim Rookie of the Year honors, further boosting the university’s basketball legacy. Her aggressive style of play and ability to deliver in clutch moments drew comparisons to WNBA legends like Diana Taurasi and Tamika Catchings.
Fever head coach Christie Sides praised Hidalgo’s relentless drive. “Hannah brought an edge to our team from day one. Her competitiveness and leadership are beyond her years, and this is just the beginning of what she’ll accomplish.”
With this latest honor, Hidalgo’s future in the WNBA looks increasingly promising. She is already being discussed as a potential All-Star and future MVP candidate, with her name becoming synonymous with the league’s new wave of talent.
As the WNBA continues to grow, stars like Hannah Hidalgo are helping to elevate the league’s profile, bringing more attention and excitement to the sport. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see what she’ll achieve next.
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