Notre Dame’s star sophomore guard, Hannah Hidalgo, was visibly overcome with emotion on Monday night as she received the highly coveted Cheryl Miller Award, recognizing her as the top small forward in women’s college basketball for the 2024-2025 season.
Hidalgo, who has captivated fans and analysts alike with her dazzling playmaking and leadership on the court, fought back tears as she took to the stage at the prestigious ceremony. The Cheryl Miller Award, named after the legendary Hall of Fame player and one of the most iconic figures in women’s basketball history, is considered one of the sport’s highest individual honors.
“It’s hard to put into words how much this means to me,” Hidalgo said, struggling to hold back tears as she addressed the crowd. “To be mentioned in the same breath as someone like Cheryl Miller, who’s done so much for the game, is truly humbling. I’m just so thankful for all the people who’ve supported me on this journey—from my coaches, my teammates, my family, and of course, the Notre Dame community.”
Hidalgo’s emotional reaction was a testament to the hard work and dedication that has defined her path to this achievement. From the moment she stepped onto the court for Notre Dame, she’s been a force to be reckoned with, quickly establishing herself as one of the premier players in college basketball. Her combination of scoring, vision, and defensive tenacity has been a driving force behind the Fighting Irish’s success this season.
As a sophomore, Hidalgo’s performance has earned her a spot among the country’s elite players, but it’s her leadership, on and off the court, that has made her such a vital piece to Notre Dame’s championship aspirations. Her tenacity, basketball IQ, and ability to elevate the play of those around her have made her a household name in women’s college basketball.
Despite her individual accolades, Hidalgo has often deflected attention away from herself, instead choosing to highlight her team’s success. That humility was on full display during her acceptance speech for the Cheryl Miller Award. “I wouldn’t be standing here without the support of my teammates,” Hidalgo continued. “This is not just my award; it’s a reflection of the hard work and sacrifice we all make together as a team.”
The Cheryl Miller Award is named after one of the most dominant players in the history of the game. Miller, a two-time NCAA champion, was a transcendent talent who helped elevate women’s basketball to new heights in the 1980s and 1990s. She was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1995 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players to ever play the game.
Receiving this award, Hidalgo joins a list of women’s basketball icons who have previously been honored with the prestigious recognition. However, the moment was particularly special for the Notre Dame star, who has spoken at length about the influence Miller had on her own journey in the sport.
Coach Niele Ivey, who has played a key role in Hidalgo’s development, was full of praise for her star player. “Hannah has earned everything she’s gotten this season,” Ivey said. “She works incredibly hard, and she’s a true leader for this program. This award is just the beginning for her. She’s going to do great things, both on and off the court.”
Hidalgo’s emotional response to receiving the Cheryl Miller Award only reinforced her dedication and love for the game, as well as her deep appreciation for the opportunity to represent Notre Dame at the highest level. With the Fighting Irish primed for a postseason run, there is no doubt that Hidalgo will continue to be a driving force for the team as they pursue their ultimate goal of national glory.
As the season progresses, fans will be eager to see what comes next for this exceptional young talent, whose combination of skill, passion, and humility make her a true ambassador for women’s basketball.
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