Sun Mar 29 17:30:00 UTC 2026: ### Hidalgo’s Historic Performance Propels Notre Dame to Elite Eight

The Story:

Hannah Hidalgo delivered a record-breaking performance, leading Notre Dame to a 67-64 victory over Vanderbilt in the Sweet Sixteen and securing their first Elite Eight appearance since 2019. Hidalgo’s stat line included 31 points, 11 rebounds, 10 steals, and 7 assists, setting new NCAA tournament and single-season steals records. Despite a late Vanderbilt rally, Hidalgo’s crucial rebound and assist to Cassandre Prosper for the game-winning basket sealed the win.

Key Points:

  • Hannah Hidalgo recorded a triple-double with 31 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 steals.
  • Hidalgo set a new NCAA tournament record with 26 steals, surpassing the previous record of 23.
  • Hidalgo also broke the NCAA Division I single-season steals record with 199 steals.
  • Cassandre Prosper scored the game-winning basket off an assist from Hidalgo.
  • Notre Dame, a No. 6 seed, reached the Elite Eight for the first time since 2019.
  • Vanderbilt’s Mikayla Blakes, the nation’s leading scorer, struggled, shooting 7-of-26 from the field.

Key Takeaways:

  • Hannah Hidalgo’s exceptional performance underscores her status as a dominant force in women’s college basketball.
  • Notre Dame’s ability to overcome a challenging season start and advance in the tournament demonstrates their resilience and improved team chemistry.
  • Defense, spearheaded by Hidalgo, played a crucial role in Notre Dame’s victory, disrupting Vanderbilt’s offensive flow.
  • The team’s focus on internal connection and communication, inspired by Maya Moore’s advice, has contributed to their success.
  • Notre Dame’s Elite Eight appearance signifies a significant step forward for the program under coach Niele Ivey.

Impact Analysis:

  • Hidalgo’s record-breaking performance will likely elevate her national profile and potentially impact future recruitment for Notre Dame’s women’s basketball program.
  • Notre Dame’s success in the tournament could generate increased fan engagement and media coverage for the team.
  • The victory provides a strong foundation for future seasons, setting a new standard of excellence for the program.

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