In a commanding display of basketball prowess, the No. 3 seed Notre Dame Fighting Irish women’s basketball team advanced to their fourth consecutive Sweet 16 by defeating the No. 6 seed Michigan Wolverines 76-55 in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.
The game, held at Purcell Pavilion, showcased Notre Dame’s dominance from the outset, with sophomore guard Hannah Hidalgo leading the charge by scoring 21 points.
Game Overview
Notre Dame set the tone early, establishing a 20-point lead in the first quarter. This early dominance was a testament to their offensive efficiency and defensive tenacity. The Fighting Irish’s defense was particularly noteworthy, limiting Michigan—a team that averaged 78 points per game during the season—to a season-low 55 points.
Hannah Hidalgo’s Impact
Hannah Hidalgo’s performance was instrumental in Notre Dame’s victory. She led all scorers with 21 points, showcasing her scoring ability and court vision. This performance followed her impressive 24-point outing in the first round against Stephen F. Austin, underscoring her consistency and importance to the team.
Hidalgo’s sophomore season has been remarkable. Averaging 24.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 3.7 steals per game, she has established herself as one of the premier players in women’s college basketball. Her shooting efficiency, with a field goal percentage of 46.6% and a three-point percentage of 40.7%, highlights her offensive versatility. These statistics have positioned her as a leading candidate for the Naismith National Player of the Year award.
Liatu King’s Dominance
Complementing Hidalgo’s efforts, forward Liatu King delivered a standout performance with 18 points and 15 rebounds. Her dominance on the boards was pivotal, as she became only the sixth player in Notre Dame’s history to record 15 or more rebounds in an NCAA Tournament game. King’s ability to control the paint provided the Fighting Irish with second-chance opportunities and stifled Michigan’s interior offense.
Defensive Prowess
Notre Dame’s defensive strategy was effective in disrupting Michigan’s offensive rhythm. The Fighting Irish’s pressure defense forced turnovers and contested shots, holding the Wolverines to their lowest scoring output of the season. This defensive intensity has been a hallmark of Notre Dame’s play throughout the tournament, signaling their readiness for deeper competition.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, Notre Dame advances to the Sweet 16, where they will face TCU in Birmingham, Alabama. This matchup is particularly intriguing, as TCU previously defeated Notre Dame in the Cayman Islands in November. The rematch offers the Fighting Irish an opportunity to avenge that loss and demonstrate their growth over the season.
Season Resilience
Notre Dame’s journey to the Sweet 16 has been marked by resilience. Despite facing challenges late in the regular season, including three losses in their last five games, the team has rebounded impressively in the tournament. Head coach Niele Ivey utilized these setbacks as learning experiences, refocusing her squad and reigniting their competitive spirit.
Conclusion
The Fighting Irish’s performance against Michigan underscores their potential as a formidable contender in the NCAA Tournament. With Hidalgo’s leadership, King’s interior dominance, and a collective commitment to defense, Notre Dame has positioned itself as a team to watch in the upcoming rounds. Their upcoming rematch with TCU promises to be a thrilling contest, offering a chance to showcase their evolution since their last encounter.
