The Sweet 16 showdown between Notre Dame and Vanderbilt was a showcase of elite talent, with Hannah Hidalgo and Mikayla Blakes taking center stage. The game was a testament to the rising stars in women's basketball, and one legendary figure, Tamika Catchings, had a message for them.
Catchings, a ten-time WNBA All-Star and former Indiana Fever star, took to social media to praise the young playmakers. She wrote, "I’m taking @HannahHidalgo & @mikaylablakes on any of my teams!!! Love the straight-up Dawg Mentality they play with! THIS is how you play!!!" Her enthusiasm was infectious, highlighting the raw energy and skill on display.
Hidalgo, the star of the game, scored 31 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 steals, breaking the NCAA single-season steals record. Her performance was a testament to her basketball IQ and intensity, as noted by ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith. He gushed, "I love that girl Hidalgo... I can't take my eyes off watching her play." Hidalgo's ability to take Notre Dame to the Elite Eight is a testament to her leadership and talent.
Blakes, despite the loss, showed resilience. She admitted to struggling with the defeat, stating, "I guess I just dribbled it off my foot... I saw an open lane, but I moved too fast." Her honesty showcases the growth and learning process of a young player.
The game's outcome was a result of the team's chemistry, as noted by Coach Niele Ivey. The summer development sessions paid off, leading to Notre Dame's success. Hidalgo's reflection on the Sweet 16 experience, "I used to take just being in the Sweet 16 for granted... and I'm so much more grateful to be here," highlights the importance of appreciation and growth.
This Sweet 16 showdown was more than just a game; it was a celebration of the future of women's basketball. Catchings' praise and Smith's admiration showcase the potential of these young stars. As Hidalgo and Blakes continue their journeys, the basketball world will be watching, eager to see their development and impact on the sport.
