In a thrilling NCAA Tournament Round of 32 matchup held on March 23, 2026, the Notre Dame women’s basketball team overcame an early deficit to defeat the Ohio State Buckeyes 83-73. The victory not only showcased the Fighting Irish’s resilience but also marked their fifth consecutive appearance in the Sweet Sixteen, solidifying their status as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball.
The game began with Ohio State taking an impressive 11-0 lead, putting Notre Dame in a challenging position right from the start. However, the Fighting Irish quickly regrouped, outscoring the Buckeyes 83-62 after that initial setback. This remarkable turnaround was fueled by standout performances from several players, particularly Hannah Hidalgo, who scored 26 points and recorded a career-high 13 rebounds, while also matching her own program record with eight steals.
Key moments
Hidalgo’s performance was pivotal, as she not only led her team in scoring but also demonstrated her defensive prowess. Her ability to disrupt Ohio State’s offense with her steals was crucial in shifting the momentum of the game. Alongside Hidalgo, Notre Dame had five players score in double figures, showcasing their depth and teamwork, which proved vital against a formidable opponent.
On the other side, Jaloni Cambridge was the standout for Ohio State, scoring an impressive 41 points, the only player from her team to reach double digits. Despite her efforts, the Buckeyes struggled to find consistent scoring options, which ultimately hindered their ability to maintain their early lead. This game highlighted the importance of team contributions in high-stakes matchups, as Notre Dame’s balanced scoring proved more effective than Ohio State’s reliance on a single player.
The victory is particularly significant for Notre Dame, which had faced challenges earlier in the season, being projected as a No. 9 seed in late January. Their turnaround has been remarkable, and this win against Ohio State serves as a testament to their hard work and determination. “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,” said Cassandre Prosper, reflecting on the journey the team has undertaken.
As the Fighting Irish celebrate their advancement, the atmosphere in Value City Arena in Columbus, Ohio, was electric, with fans rallying behind their team. Vanessa de Jesus commented on the team’s resilience, 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 encapsulates the spirit of the team as they look forward to the challenges that lie ahead in the tournament.
Hidalgo, who downplayed her individual achievements, remarked, “I don’t ever really know my stats, I’m just out there hooping.” Her humility reflects the team’s collective mindset, focusing on the goal of advancing further in the tournament rather than individual accolades. As they prepare for their next matchup, the Fighting Irish will carry the momentum of this victory, aiming to continue their successful run in the NCAA Tournament.
With this win, Notre Dame women’s basketball not only advances but also sends a strong message to the rest of the tournament field: they are a team to be reckoned with. As they gear up for the Sweet Sixteen, the Fighting Irish will undoubtedly draw on their recent experiences and the lessons learned from overcoming adversity, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting continuation of their NCAA journey.
