Notre Dame women’s basketball star Hannah Hidalgo was involved in controversy during the team’s loss to Oregon State in the NCAA Tournament due to wearing a nose ring, which violated NCAA rules. Despite wearing the nose ring throughout the season and the first two tournament games, Hidalgo was forced to have it removed during the second quarter, causing her to miss playing time. Hidalgo expressed frustration with the situation, feeling that the officials were focusing on the wrong things during the game.
Iowa star Caitlin Clark was invited to the US National Team Olympic Training Camp while still pursuing a national championship with Notre Dame. Coach Niele Ivey expressed a wish that she had been informed about the nose ring issue before the game began. Despite the distraction, Hidalgo finished with 10 points in one of her worst shooting performances of the season. Oregon State ultimately defeated Notre Dame 70-65, with Timea Gardiner leading the Beavers with 21 points and 11 rebounds.
Gardiner emphasized the Beavers’ defensive focus and their understanding of what it takes to win close games, leading to their success in reaching the Elite Eight for only the third time in the program’s history. Oregon State’s victory was a result of their core group’s commitment to defense and executing in crucial moments. The team’s performance was seen as a testament to their hard work and dedication throughout the season.
The Associated Press contributed to the report on Hidalgo’s controversy and Oregon State’s success in the tournament. The coverage highlighted the impact of Hidalgo’s nose ring incident on the game and the Beavers’ impressive performance on the court. Gardiner’s standout performance in the game, along with Oregon State’s defensive efforts, were key factors in their victory over Notre Dame. The Elite Eight appearance marked a significant achievement for the Oregon State program.
The focus on defense and executing in crucial moments propelled Oregon State to victory over Notre Dame and into the Elite Eight, showcasing their determination and perseverance throughout the season. The Beavers’ success in the tournament reflected their commitment to their game plan and the team’s ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most. Hidalgo’s controversial nose ring incident was a minor distraction in the larger context of the game, but Oregon State’s performance ultimately determined the outcome of the contest.
The coverage of Hidalgo’s controversy and Oregon State’s victory provided insight into the NCAA Tournament and the competitive nature of women’s college basketball. The Beavers’ success highlighted the importance of defense and execution in close games, while Hidalgo’s experience shed light on the impact of rule violations on player performance. Oregon State’s journey to the Elite Eight was a testament to their hard work and dedication, as they continue to excel in the tournament and pursue success on the national stage.
