The Notre Dame women’s basketball team made a bold statement Thursday night with a 79-68 victory over previously unbeaten UConn.
This matchup wasn’t just about another game – it was about proving who belongs among the nation’s best. Here are the five biggest takeaways from Notre Dame’s electrifying win that fans of both teams need to know.
1. Hannah Hidalgo Is a Star on the Rise
If there was any doubt before, it’s gone now—Hannah Hidalgo is a frontrunner for National Player of the Year. The Notre Dame sophomore was unstoppable, dropping 29 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, dishing out 8 assists, and snagging 3 steals. She started off cold, but after sinking her first three-pointer late in the first quarter, there was no looking back.
And this wasn’t just a one-off. Hidalgo has been consistently shining against top teams like Southern Cal and Texas, where she posted big numbers as well. Her ability to take over games on both ends of the floor puts her firmly in the Naismith and Wooden Award conversations, and her defensive prowess (4.1 steals per game!) makes her a strong candidate for Defensive Player of the Year, too.
2. UConn Missed Azzi Fudd’s Shooting
Azzi Fudd is the kind of player you don’t realize you rely on until she’s not there. UConn’s sharpshooter sat out Thursday’s game with a knee sprain, and her absence left a hole in the Huskies’ offense. UConn shot just 3-of-16 from three-point range—a season-low percentage—and lacked the outside presence needed to counter Notre Dame’s guards.
Paige Bueckers led UConn with 24 points but failed to hit a single three-pointer. Without Fudd’s spacing and shooting touch (she’s 33% from three on the season), the Irish defense was able to focus more heavily on Bueckers. While it’s good news that Fudd’s injury is minor, her absence in this game was a clear factor in UConn’s first loss of the season.
3. Notre Dame’s Depth Is Stepping Up
While Hidalgo deservedly grabs the headlines, Notre Dame’s depth played a critical role in this win. Liatu King delivered an impressive double-double with 16 points and 14 rebounds, proving why she’s one of the best transfer additions this season. Freshman Liza Karlen returned to action after an injury layoff, adding valuable minutes to support the Irish frontcourt.
Even with injuries to key players earlier in the season, the Fighting Irish are showing they have the tools to compete at the highest level. Their ability to juggle a short bench and still beat top teams like UConn speaks volumes about their resilience and coaching under Niele Ivey.
4. The Rivalry Is Still Strong – But Injuries Hold It Back
Notre Dame and UConn have one of the most iconic rivalries in women’s college basketball, but recent matchups have been marred by injuries. Thursday’s game was no different, with Azzi Fudd sitting out for UConn and a brief injury scare for Olivia Miles, who returned to play and contributed 16 points.
Over the past few years, key players like Bueckers, Fudd, and Miles have missed big rivalry games, taking some of the excitement out of these showdowns. With all three eligible for the WNBA Draft in April, fans may have missed their last chance to see a full-strength battle between these elite guard lineups.
5. Notre Dame Deserves Top-5 Respect
This win isn’t just a fluke—it’s Notre Dame’s third top-five victory this season. They’ve taken down the best teams in the nation and proven they’re a force to be reckoned with. Despite early-season struggles and a drop in the rankings after back-to-back losses in November, the Fighting Irish are back on track.
Notre Dame doesn’t even have its full roster healthy yet, which makes this run even more impressive. Once fully loaded, this is a team that could go toe-to-toe with any Final Four contender. It’s time the polls reflect just how dangerous the Irish truly are.
Final Thoughts
Notre Dame’s victory over UConn wasn’t just another game—it was a declaration. Hannah Hidalgo’s breakout performance, the team’s depth, and their ability to rise above injuries showed they’re not just playing to compete; they’re playing to win it all.
Meanwhile, UConn has lessons to take from this loss, especially how much they rely on Azzi Fudd to spread the floor. One thing’s for sure—if these two teams meet again in March, it’s going to be unmissable basketball.
Source: Yahoo Sports
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