In a thrilling matchup on March 23, 2026, the Notre Dame women’s basketball team defeated the Ohio State Buckeyes 83-73 in the NCAA Tournament Round of 32, securing their place in the Sweet Sixteen.
The game began with a challenging start for Notre Dame, as they faced an early deficit of 11-0. However, the Fighting Irish quickly regrouped and outscored Ohio State 83-62 for the remainder of the game, showcasing their resilience and skill.
Key moments
Hannah Hidalgo was a standout performer for Notre Dame, scoring 26 points and grabbing a career-high 13 rebounds. She also matched her own program single-game NCAA Tournament record with eight steals, demonstrating her defensive prowess. In contrast, Jaloni Cambridge was the sole bright spot for Ohio State, scoring an impressive 41 points, but her efforts were not enough to secure a win for her team.
Notre Dame’s victory is particularly significant as it marks their fifth consecutive appearance in the Sweet Sixteen, a testament to the program’s consistent performance in the NCAA Tournament. The Fighting Irish had been projected as a No. 9 seed earlier in the season, but a strong turnaround led them to this momentous win.
After the game, Vanessa de Jesus reflected on the team’s ability to overcome adversity, stating, “We knew they were going to come out hot. For us, it was facing adversity and knowing we’ll have our time.” This sentiment was echoed by Hidalgo, who remarked, “I don’t ever really know my stats, I’m just out there hooping,” highlighting her focus on team success over individual accolades.
Cassandre Prosper also expressed her joy at returning to the Sweet Sixteen, saying, “To be back in the Sweet Sixteen this year, it means the world. Knowing how much work and effort I put in personally trying to regrow and build this team, it means a lot.” Her words reflect the dedication and hard work that the team has put in throughout the season.
The game was held at Value City Arena in Columbus, Ohio, where fans witnessed a competitive and exciting contest. Notre Dame’s ability to rally after a slow start and secure a decisive victory speaks volumes about their determination and skill as a team.
As the Fighting Irish prepare for their next challenge in the tournament, the excitement surrounding Notre Dame women’s basketball continues to grow. With a strong roster and a history of success, they are poised to make a significant impact as they advance further in the NCAA Tournament.
