Geno Auriemma makes his feelings known on Hannah Hidalgo after Notre Dame pulls off UConn upset

UConn coach Geno Auriemma could not irk out a gameplan to contain rising star Hannah Hidalgo in their 79-68 loss earlier on Thursday, Dec. 12. The spitfire guard exploded for a game-high 29 points along with 10 rebounds and eight assists, much to the dismay of Auriemma and the Huskies.

During the post-game presser, Auriemma recognized the raw talent Hidalgo possesses as he says it'll be a challenge for anyone to defend her. Per UCTV Sports, he said:

"Her talent is obvious, even if you're not a basketball person... there's a talent level she has that's pretty unique. You put all her talent together, it's a really difficult matchup for anybody."

Hidalgo went 8-for-17 from the field overall which included six 3-point makes out of 11 tries. She also went a perfect 7-for-7 from the charity stripe and was a pest on defense with three steals.

Auriemma still believes that his team handled the hostile environment well, as per UCTV Sports. Fourth-year sensation Paige Bueckers had 25 markers in the defeat while freshman Sarah Strong had 14 points and seven caroms. They fought hard without Azzi Fudd, who is nursing a minor knee sprain.

UConn's record now falls to 8-1 on the 2024-2025 season and the Huskies will look to return to winning form on Sunday against Georgetown on their homefloor.

Meanwhile, for Hidalgo and the Fighting Irish, their standing improves to 8-2 and they will face the Eastern Michigan Eagles next on the same day in South Bend, Indiana.

Hannah Hidalgo tries to bring her best energy to every game

Playing in front of a sold-out Purcell Pavilion crowd wearing green, Hidalgo was able to gain more energy with the cheers coming from the stands. In the post-game press conference, the fan-favorite discussed how much it means to her.

"I know I'm that energy piece for my team. So, I try and bring it not only for every game but for every practice so what you guys see in the games is kind of what I'm bringing for practice. I know my team needs that and they feed off of that," Hidalgo shared. (3:00)

At 19 years old in her second stint with Notre Dame, the future looks bright for Hidalgo, especially if she continues to be the energizer she is. With the way things are going, the Fighting Irish are poised for a deep run this year.