Notre Dame faced Clemson on Sunday without one of its key players. The absence of sophomore Hannah Hidalgo marked the first time in her Fighting Irish career that she missed a game. Prior to the match, spectators noticed Hidalgo wearing a brace on her right ankle and not engaging in pre-game activities. According to an official statement from the university, Hidalgo sustained an ankle injury during the previous game against Wake Forest. The team decided to prioritize her recovery, ensuring she remains fit for the remainder of the season.

The decision to rest Hidalgo was confirmed as precautionary by the game commentators. Despite her absence, the impact of Hidalgo’s contributions to Notre Dame cannot be overstated. This season, she has emerged as a leading candidate for national player of the year. Averaging an impressive 25.7 points, six rebounds, 3.7 assists, and leading the nation with 4.1 steals per game, Hidalgo has consistently delivered standout performances. Her exceptional play against top-tier opponents like USC, Texas, and UConn has further solidified her status as one of the best players in college basketball.

Hidalgo’s dedication and performance highlight the importance of prioritizing player health in competitive sports. Ensuring athletes are fully recovered can lead to better long-term outcomes both for individual players and their teams. As Notre Dame prepares for its upcoming home game against SMU on Thursday, fans eagerly await Hidalgo’s return to the court, hoping to see her continue her remarkable streak.