Key moments
In a dramatic NCAA Tournament Round of 32 clash, the Notre Dame women’s basketball team triumphed over the Ohio State Buckeyes with a final score of 83-73 in Columbus, Ohio, on March 23, 2026. This victory not only showcased the Fighting Irish’s resilience but also secured their fifth consecutive appearance in the Sweet Sixteen.
Notre Dame faced an uphill battle early in the game, falling behind 11-0 before rallying to outscore Ohio State 83-62 for the remainder of the match. Hannah Hidalgo led the charge for Notre Dame, scoring an impressive 26 points and grabbing a career-high 13 rebounds. Her performance was further highlighted by matching her own program single-game NCAA Tournament record with eight steals.
Ohio State’s Jaloni Cambridge was the standout player for her team, scoring a staggering 41 points, making her the only Buckeye to reach double digits in scoring. Despite Cambridge’s efforts, the Buckeyes struggled to contain Notre Dame’s balanced offensive attack, which featured five players scoring in double figures.
Vanessa de Jesus, a key player for Notre Dame, reflected on the team’s early struggles, 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 echoed throughout the Fighting Irish’s locker room as they regrouped and executed their game plan effectively.
Hidalgo, who downplayed her individual achievements, remarked, “I don’t ever really know my stats, I’m just out there hooping.” Her humble approach, combined with her on-court performance, has made her a pivotal figure in Notre Dame’s success this season.
Cassandre Prosper expressed her excitement about 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.” This victory is a testament to the hard work and determination of the entire team.
Notre Dame’s journey in the tournament has been remarkable, especially considering they were projected as a No. 9 seed in late January before turning their season around. The Fighting Irish’s ability to overcome adversity and perform under pressure has become a hallmark of their tournament run.
As the team prepares for the next round, the excitement among players and fans alike is palpable. Notre Dame’s victory over Ohio State marks a significant milestone in their quest for a championship, and the anticipation for their upcoming match is already building.
