Hidalgo's 31-point triple-double sends Notre Dame to Elite
PUBLISHED Mar 27, 2026, 6:58 AM ET
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Fort Worth, Texas — Hannah Hidalgo scored 31 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, recorded 10 steals and assisted the go-ahead basket to lead sixth-seeded Notre Dame to a 67-64 Sweet 16 victory over Vanderbilt on Friday, March 27, advancing the Fighting Irish to the Elite Eight. The win featured Hidalgo surpassing the NCAA single-season steals record in the first half, while Vanderbilt's Mikayla Blakes finished with 26 points; Notre Dame (25-10) will face a top-seeded regional opponent in the Fort Worth final Sunday, altering the tournament matchup landscape.
By Michael Grant | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Regular season: Hidalgo accumulated high scoring and steals totals while approaching the NCAA single-season steals mark.
- Prior record: Chastadie Barrs set the single-season steals record (192) in 2018-19 while at Lamar.
- March 27 (Sweet 16): Notre Dame met Vanderbilt in Fort Worth; Hidalgo recorded seven first-half steals to break the record.
- Late-game: Hidalgo assisted the go-ahead basket with 22 seconds left and later made free throws to seal the victory.
- Postgame: Notre Dame advanced to the Elite Eight and is scheduled to play a top-seeded opponent in the regional final.
News Intelligence
- Hannah Hidalgo's record-breaking performance is a testament to hard work and dedication. It's a reminder that individual achievements can lift a team, and inspire fans. If you're a Notre Dame supporter or a basketball enthusiast, this is a historic moment to celebrate.
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Notre Dame's program benefited through advancement to the Elite Eight, increased national exposure, and a statistical milestone enhancing Hannah Hidalgo's profile for postseason recognition and potential professional opportunities.
Vanderbilt's program suffered a narrow Sweet 16 loss, forgoing an Elite Eight appearance and momentum despite Mikayla Blakes' 26-point effort in the tournament.
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Hidalgo's 31-point triple-double sends Notre Dame to Elite
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