Hannah Hidalgo, a standout guard for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish women's basketball team, has confirmed her return for her senior season. This decision is pivotal for the Irish as Hidalgo has been a dominant player, finishing third in the nation in scoring with an average of 25.3 points per game and leading the nation in steals at 5.6 per game. Her remarkable performance included a triple-double in the Sweet 16 against Vanderbilt, showcasing her all-around skills. Hidalgo's accolades include being named ACC Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year for two consecutive seasons, along with multiple All-American honors. With her return, the Notre Dame coaching staff can strategically pursue top talent from the transfer portal to enhance the team's competitiveness. The Irish also boast a promising recruiting class for 2026, featuring McDonald's All-Americans Jaci Abii and Jenica Lewis, among others. This combination of returning talent and new recruits positions Notre Dame for a strong season ahead under head coach Niele Ivey.