Here We Go! Notre Dame Women’s Basketball Star Guard Hannah Hidalgo Enters Transfer Portal Due To…
In a surprising turn of events, one of the most promising young talents in college basketball, Hannah Hidalgo, has entered the transfer portal, leaving the Notre Dame women’s basketball program with a wave of uncertainty. A highly coveted guard, Hidalgo’s decision to transfer has raised eyebrows across the sport, especially considering her significant impact during her time at the prestigious program. The announcement has left fans, teammates, and coaches speculating about the reasons behind her departure, and the implications it could have for both her future and the program’s.
Hannah Hidalgo, a highly touted recruit from the class of 2023, was expected to make a major impact at Notre Dame. A versatile and dynamic guard, Hidalgo is known for her exceptional ball-handling skills, quick decision-making, and scoring ability. She has long been recognized as a player capable of taking over a game, and her potential to elevate the Notre Dame program was one of the reasons she was so highly ranked as a recruit. During her brief time with the Fighting Irish, she displayed flashes of her talent and the promise that made her one of the most exciting prospects in women’s basketball.
Despite the excitement surrounding Hidalgo’s arrival in South Bend, her decision to enter the transfer portal has raised numerous questions. The reasons behind her choice are still unclear, but there are several factors that could have played a role in her decision.
One possible reason for Hidalgo’s departure could be the increasing level of competition within the Notre Dame program. As one of the most storied programs in women’s college basketball, Notre Dame attracts top-tier talent, creating a highly competitive environment. The pressure to perform at a consistently high level can be daunting, and for a player like Hidalgo, who was expected to immediately step into a major role, it could have been a lot to handle. The expectations surrounding her may have placed her in a position where she struggled to adapt to the speed and intensity of the college game, and the rigors of playing in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), which is widely regarded as one of the most competitive women’s basketball leagues in the country.
Another contributing factor could be the style of play at Notre Dame, which has historically focused on a well-balanced offensive attack and a strong defensive game plan. While Hidalgo’s individual skills are undeniable, her playing style might not have aligned perfectly with the team’s system. Coach Niele Ivey, who took over as head coach in 2020, has emphasized building a fast-paced, high-pressure system that requires players to not only excel in their individual roles but also work seamlessly within a collective framework. This can be challenging for players who have been accustomed to different styles of play or who prefer a more free-flowing offensive structure. If Hidalgo felt that the team’s style was not a good fit for her strengths, it could have contributed to her decision to explore other opportunities.
Moreover, the emotional and mental toll of playing at such a high level can sometimes be underestimated. College athletes, especially those in programs with national championship aspirations like Notre Dame, face tremendous pressure to perform. Injuries, academic responsibilities, and personal challenges can all add up to create a stressful environment. The decision to transfer is not always about the sport itself, but sometimes about finding a better mental and emotional fit, where a player feels they can thrive both on and off the court.
Furthermore, the transfer portal has become a significant aspect of college basketball, particularly in recent years. With the rise of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities, players have more options than ever before when it comes to choosing a program that fits their aspirations. For a player like Hidalgo, entering the portal could be a strategic move to find a school that provides not only a better fit in terms of playing style but also greater chances for personal and professional growth. The ability to play for a different coach, experience a new system, or even get more minutes could be among the factors influencing her decision.
Lastly, there is also the possibility that Hidalgo’s departure is linked to personal reasons. The pressures of being a top-tier athlete, combined with the demands of college life, can sometimes result in a player needing a change of scenery for their mental and emotional well-being. College athletics are not just about basketball; they are about growth, development, and maintaining a balance between academics, sports, and personal life.
As the story unfolds, one thing is certain: Hannah Hidalgo’s decision to enter the transfer portal will have lasting effects on both her and Notre Dame women’s basketball. While the future is uncertain, it’s clear that Hidalgo’s potential is still very much intact. Wherever she lands next, she will undoubtedly be a player to watch, and her next chapter will be eagerly anticipated by fans and analysts alike. For Notre Dame, the loss of such a talented player raises questions about how the team will adapt moving forward, but with Coach Ivey at the helm, the program will undoubtedly continue to strive for excellence. The world of women’s college basketball just got a little
more interesting.