Hannah Hidalgo’s performance against the USC Trojans was a testament to her skill, versatility, and growth as a player. She contributed significantly in multiple areas, from scoring and playmaking to defense and leadership
Her impact on the court has energized Notre Dame, and her continued development will be a crucial asset as the team moves through the season.
Hidalgo’s performance is a reminder of the excitement and potential that young talents bring to college basketball. As she continues to refine her game, fans can look forward to many more thrilling performances from this rising Notre Dame star.
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Hannah Hidalgo’s Standout Performance Against USC Trojans
Notre Dame’s Star Player Shines
When Notre Dame faced off against the USC Trojans on November 23, all eyes were on Hannah Hidalgo, the dynamic young guard who has rapidly become one of Notre Dame’s standout players.1
Hidalgo’s impressive performance not only highlighted her growing skill set but also showcased her potential as a key player for the team moving forward.
In this article, we’ll break down Hidalgo’s stats, performance highlights, and how she influenced the outcome of the game.
A Look at Hannah Hidalgo’s Stats
For Notre Dame fans and basketball enthusiasts alike, Hannah Hidalgo’s stats against the USC Trojans were nothing short of impressive.
Known for her quickness, agility, and sharp shooting, Hidalgo delivered an outstanding game that demonstrated her value to the Notre Dame roster.
In her matchup with the Trojans, Hidalgo posted strong numbers in several key areas. Her points scored, assists, rebounds, and steals provided a well-rounded contribution that kept Notre Dame competitive throughout the game.
While these stats only tell part of the story, they are indicative of the hard work and dedication she brings to every play.
Scoring Skills on Full Display
One of the standout aspects of Hidalgo’s game against USC was her scoring ability. She showcased her versatility by making shots from various positions on the court, whether through penetrating drives to the basket, pulling up for mid-range jumpers, or sinking shots from beyond the arc.
Her scoring prowess has become a signature of her game, as she can adapt to different defensive strategies and exploit openings with her quick decision-making.
This scoring versatility has made Hidalgo a tough player to defend. She understands when to take her shot and when to create opportunities for her teammates, striking a balance between personal scoring and team play.
Playmaking and Assists: Supporting Her Teammates
Beyond her scoring, Hidalgo’s playmaking abilities shone brightly. She dished out assists that were pivotal in keeping Notre Dame’s offense fluid and unpredictable.
Her vision on the court allowed her to identify open players, setting them up for high-percentage shots and creating a balanced attack that kept the Trojans’ defense guessing.
This ability to assist her teammates demonstrates Hidalgo’s understanding of team dynamics. Rather than seeking out scoring opportunities for herself, she displayed the selflessness needed to boost her teammates’ confidence and scoring chances. Such playmaking will be crucial for Notre Dame as they progress through the season.
Year 2 #Jesusisthegreatest pic.twitter.com/vFAWu8u4dX
— Hannah Hidalgo (@HannahHidalgo) November 13, 2024
Defensive Prowess: A Game-Changer
Defense is often an area where young players can struggle, but Hidalgo has quickly become known for her tenacity on the defensive end.
Against the Trojans, her defensive effort was remarkable, as she managed to accumulate several steals that disrupted USC’s offensive flow. Her ability to anticipate passes and pressure opposing ball handlers was a major asset for Notre Dame, leading to turnovers and fast-break opportunities.
Hidalgo’s defensive skills not only help Notre Dame keep opponents from gaining momentum but also allow her to initiate offensive plays from turnovers, further demonstrating her well-rounded game.
Her defensive tenacity can be intimidating for opponents, as she is always in pursuit and ready to capitalize on any mistake.
Hannah Hidalgo: Leadership
- Despite being an emerging star, Hidalgo displayed maturity and leadership in this game that went beyond her years.2
- Whether controlling the pace of the game or providing vocal support to her teammates, her presence on the court was a stabilizing factor for Notre Dame.
- She remained composed under pressure, demonstrating her readiness to take on a leadership role and inspire those around her.
- This composure was evident in how she handled high-pressure moments, maintaining her focus and keeping her team calm during critical junctures.
- Such qualities are invaluable in a young player, making her a promising prospect not only for Notre Dame’s current season but also for her future career in basketball.
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The Impact of Hidalgo’s Performance on Notre Dame’s Season
Hidalgo’s standout game against USC reflects her growth and the impact she can have on the rest of Notre Dame’s season.
Her scoring, playmaking, and defense provide a solid foundation for the team, and her leadership has inspired both teammates and fans. This performance serves as a reminder of her potential to help lead Notre Dame to new heights.
As the season progresses, Hidalgo’s role is expected to expand, and if she continues on this trajectory, Notre Dame could emerge as a strong contender.
Her unique skill set and competitive drive make her a force to be reckoned with, and her contributions could be instrumental in any postseason aspirations the team may have.
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Fighting Irish vs. Trojans Game Recap
Hannah Hidalgo and Olivia Miles Lead Over JuJu Watkins and Talia Von Oelhoffen
In an electrifying matchup between two elite basketball teams, the Fighting Irish emerged victorious over the Trojans, with Hannah Hidalgo and Olivia Miles putting on a spectacular performance that left the opposition’s star players, JuJu Watkins and Talia Von Oelhoffen, struggling to keep up.3
This game proved to be an intense battle, showcasing the individual brilliance and teamwork of the Fighting Irish squad, which overwhelmed the Trojans at every turn.
A Dominant Showdown: Fighting Irish Shine
The Fighting Irish came into the game with a clear strategy: dominate from start to finish with high-pressure defense and fast-paced offense.
Led by star players Hannah Hidalgo and Olivia Miles, the Irish set the tone early, using their agility, vision, and relentless drive to wear down the Trojans.
Hidalgo, known for her quickness and playmaking ability, showcased her skills by pushing the ball up the court and setting up her teammates for easy buckets.
Her vision on the court was a key factor in breaking down the Trojans’ defense. Miles, on the other hand, was a force on both ends of the floor. Her ability to score in transition and her defensive intensity made her a standout performer.
The Battle of the Backcourt: Hidalgo and Miles vs. Watkins and Von Oelhoffen
The Trojans, led by JuJu Watkins and Talia Von Oelhoffen, entered the game as one of the most formidable duos in college basketball.
Watkins, a powerhouse scorer with impressive athleticism, had been dominant all season. Von Oelhoffen, a sharpshooting guard, was expected to provide the outside scoring needed to counteract the Fighting Irish’s aggressive playstyle.
However, in this game, Hidalgo and Miles’ chemistry proved too much for the Trojans. Hidalgo’s speed and ability to disrupt the ball movement of Watkins and Von Oelhoffen stifled their offense.
Meanwhile, Miles’ defensive prowess, combined with her offensive contributions, kept the Trojans on their heels throughout the game.
First Half: Irish Take Control Early
- From the opening tip, it was clear that the Fighting Irish were intent on controlling the tempo. Hidalgo’s aggressive defense disrupted the Trojans’ offensive flow, forcing several turnovers and converting them into easy fast-break points.
- Meanwhile, Olivia Miles showcased her versatility by scoring inside and distributing the ball efficiently to her teammates.
- The Trojans struggled to contain the high-flying offense of the Irish, as Hidalgo and Miles dominated the first half.
- Despite a few flashes of brilliance from Watkins, the Trojans’ offense was often stagnant, with their attempts at breaking down the Irish defense largely unsuccessful.
- By halftime, the Fighting Irish had established a solid lead, outpacing the Trojans in both scoring and defensive efficiency.
Second Half: Trojans Fight Back, but the Irish Hold Strong
- After the break, the Trojans came out with renewed energy, attempting to mount a comeback.
- Watkins and Von Oelhoffen made a concerted effort to get their team back in the game, with Von Oelhoffen knocking down a few crucial three-pointers and Watkins driving to the basket.
- However, the Irish defense, led by Miles and Hidalgo, continued to stifle their attempts.
- The defensive strategy of the Fighting Irish was evident in the second half, with Hidalgo and Miles constantly switching on screens and communicating well to prevent easy shots.
- The Trojans were forced into contested shots, and their offensive flow never fully regained the rhythm they had hoped for. The Irish, on the other hand, continued to capitalize on fast breaks and timely scoring.
Key Moments and Turning Points
One of the defining moments of the game came late in the third quarter when Hidalgo made a key steal, which led to a fast-break dunk by her teammate.
This sequence not only energized the Fighting Irish but also demoralized the Trojans, who were already struggling to keep up.
Another pivotal moment was a crucial three-pointer by Miles midway through the fourth quarter, which pushed the Irish lead to double digits, effectively sealing the game.
Despite the best efforts of Watkins and Von Oelhoffen, who each had their moments of brilliance, the Irish remained composed, executing their game plan to perfection.
Key Players: The Impact of Hidalgo and Miles
- Hannah Hidalgo: The sophomore guard was a game-changer, contributing not only with her scoring but also with her defensive efforts. Her ability to disrupt the passing lanes and control the tempo of the game was unmatched. Hidalgo finished with a near double-double, scoring 18 points and collecting 8 assists.
- Olivia Miles: The junior point guard was another standout, contributing in every aspect of the game. Miles played a pivotal role in both scoring and playmaking, tallying 20 points, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds. Her leadership and ability to create opportunities for her teammates were key factors in the Irish’s win.
- JuJu Watkins: The Trojan star did everything she could to keep her team in the game, finishing with 22 points and 10 rebounds. However, she struggled to find consistent support from her teammates, as the Irish defense made it difficult for her to execute her usual moves.
- Talia Von Oelhoffen: Von Oelhoffen, a sharp-shooter, had her moments in the game, knocking down key three-pointers, but was largely ineffective in finding offensive rhythm. She finished with 14 points, but her shooting efficiency was not up to her usual standards.
Irish Continue Their Strong Season
With this win, the Fighting Irish continue to assert themselves as one of the top teams in college basketball.
The dominance of Hidalgo and Miles, along with the team’s defensive intensity, makes them a formidable force as they look ahead to the rest of the season.
The Irish’s balanced attack, with contributions from all players, ensures they are well-equipped for the challenges ahead.
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