Hannah Hidalgo to Return for Senior Season at Notre Dame

Star guard will play one more year with Fighting Irish after Elite Eight exit

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:11am

A fragmented, geometric painting in shades of navy, gold, and white, depicting the overlapping movements and perspectives of a women's basketball game in an abstract, cubist style.A cubist interpretation of the dynamic action and energy of a women's basketball game, reflecting the star power and leadership of Notre Dame's Hannah Hidalgo.Notre Dame Today

Hannah Hidalgo, a standout guard for the Notre Dame women's basketball team, has officially announced on social media that she will return to the Fighting Irish for her senior season. This decision comes after Notre Dame's elimination in the Elite Eight of the NCAA tournament by powerhouse UConn.

Why it matters

Hidalgo's return is a major boost for Notre Dame, as she is one of the top players in the country and a key piece for the Fighting Irish's hopes of making a deep tournament run next season. Her decision to stay in South Bend for one more year is a win for the program and its fans.

The details

Hidalgo, a 6-foot guard, has been a star for Notre Dame over the past three seasons. Last year, she averaged 18.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game, earning First Team All-ACC honors. Her ability to score, distribute, and defend makes her one of the most well-rounded players in the country.

  • Hidalgo announced her decision to return for her senior season on April 10, 2026.
  • The Fighting Irish were eliminated from the 2026 NCAA tournament in the Elite Eight by UConn on March 28, 2026.

The players

Hannah Hidalgo

A 6-foot guard and one of the top players in women's college basketball, Hidalgo has been a standout for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish over the past three seasons.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish

The women's basketball team at the University of Notre Dame, a perennial powerhouse program that competes in the ACC conference.

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What they’re saying

“I'm excited to come back and lead this team for one more year. We have unfinished business and I'm ready to do whatever it takes to help us win a championship.”

— Hannah Hidalgo

What’s next

Hidalgo and the Fighting Irish will begin preparations for the 2026-27 season, with the goal of making a deep run in the NCAA tournament after falling short in the Elite Eight this past year.

The takeaway

Hidalgo's decision to return to Notre Dame for her senior season is a major boost for the program, as she is one of the best players in the country and a key piece in the Fighting Irish's quest to win a national championship.