The Notre Dame Fighting Irish women’s basketball team, seeded third in the NCAA Tournament, has demonstrated resilience and determination in their recent performances. After a challenging end to the regular season, where they experienced three losses in their final five games, the team has rallied to secure a spot in the Sweet Sixteen.
NCAA Tournament Journey
In the first round, Notre Dame delivered a commanding 52-point victory over 14th-seeded Stephen F. Austin. Building on this momentum, they faced sixth-seeded Michigan in the second round. The Fighting Irish established a dominant 20-point lead in the first quarter and maintained control throughout, ultimately winning 76-55.
Hannah Hidalgo’s Impact
Freshman guard Hannah Hidalgo has been instrumental in Notre Dame’s success. Against Michigan, she led the team with 21 points, showcasing her offensive prowess and leadership on the court. Hidalgo’s emergence as a floor general has been pivotal, especially considering the team’s earlier injury concerns.
Upcoming Matchup
Looking ahead, Notre Dame is set to face the TCU Horned Frogs in the Sweet Sixteen. TCU, led by standout guard Hailey Van Lith, has also displayed strong performances in the tournament. This matchup promises to be a compelling contest between two determined teams vying for a spot in the Elite Eight.