In a pivotal Sweet 16 matchup against No. 3 Oregon State, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish found themselves facing an unexpected obstacle as NCAA officials intervened, requesting star player Hannah Hidalgo to remove her diamond nose stud during the second quarter. This unique delay not only disrupted Notre Dame’s momentum but also underscored a critical moment in the game with the entire season hanging in the balance.
Reports indicate that Hidalgo was substituted out of the game at the start of the second quarter and was unable to return to action until the 5:51 mark, costing her approximately four minutes of crucial game time. In her absence, Oregon State managed to capitalize, securing an 8-7 scoring advantage and establishing a narrow lead of 25-22 by the time Hidalgo was permitted to rejoin the contest.
The decision to request Hidalgo to remove her nose ring raised eyebrows, particularly considering that she had worn it throughout the entire season without incident. As an All-American guard and key contributor to Notre Dame’s success, her absence during this critical juncture undoubtedly had a significant impact on the team’s performance.
So, why was Hidalgo asked to remove her nose ring? The answer lies in NCAA regulations, which strictly prohibit the wearing of any jewelry during gameplay. Rule 1, Section 25, Article 7 of the NCAA rulebook explicitly states that “head decorations, headwear, helmets, and jewelry are illegal,” with limited exceptions for religious headwear subject to referee approval.
While Hidalgo may have sported the nose ring throughout the season, NCAA rules are clear on the matter, leaving no room for exceptions during competitive play. The incident highlights the importance of adhering to uniform regulations and the responsibility of officials to enforce these guidelines consistently.
Despite the setback, Hidalgo’s remarkable freshman season achievements speak volumes about her talent and contribution to the Fighting Irish. With an impressive stat line boasting 22.9 points per game, 6.2 rebounds per game, 5.6 assists per game, and 4.6 steals per game, along with notable accolades such as ACC Tournament MVP and ACC Rookie of the Year, Hidalgo’s impact on the court is undeniable.
As Notre Dame strives to overcome challenges and advance in the NCAA Tournament, Hidalgo’s presence and performance remain crucial to their aspirations for success on the national stage.