Hidalgo Earns ACC Preseason Player of the Year Honors
Hannah Hidalgo has earned the prestigious ACC Preseason Player of the Year honor for the 2025-26 season. This recognition comes from a vote involving coaches and media within the Atlantic Coast Conference. Hidalgo’s remarkable performance on the court has set her apart, making her a standout player to watch.
Hannah Hidalgo’s Impressive Career
Hidalgo is a two-time AP First Team All-American and the ACC Player of the Year from the previous season. As she enters her junior year at Notre Dame, she holds the top spot for the league’s most distinguished award. Her performance last season was historic; she became the only NCAA Division I player, male or female, to average over 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals per game while maintaining a shooting accuracy of at least 40 percent from beyond the arc and 85 percent from the free-throw line since 2000.
- Average points per game in sophomore year: 23.8
- Previous season scoring record (freshman): 22.6 points per game
- Joined Arike Ogunbowale as the only Irish players with multiple 700-point seasons
Leah Macy Named to ACC Newcomer Watch List
In addition to Hidalgo’s accolades, freshman Leah Macy has been recognized on the ACC Newcomer Watch List. Originating from Elizabethtown, Kentucky, Macy is a highly regarded five-star recruit.
- Rank: No. 19 overall, No. 4 forward in the Class of 2025 by ESPN
- Achievements: McDonald’s All-American, four-time all-state first-team selection
- Senior season averages: 27 points, 13.4 rebounds, 8 assists
- Shooting percentage: 64.6% from the field
Looking Ahead to the Season
As the new season approaches, the Fighting Irish have been predicted to finish fifth in the ACC preseason poll. They will kick off their campaign with an exhibition game against Purdue Northwest on October 30 at 7 p.m. The home opener is scheduled for November 5 against Fairleigh Dickinson, also at 7 p.m.
