The Notre Dame women’s basketball team secured two impressive wins, one against the Illini and the other against Citron. The team’s senior Maddy Westbeld and freshman Hannah Hidalgo were the stars of the show, each scoring 24 points in the game against Illinois. The victory was especially sweet as it came after losing Citron to a right knee injury in the previous game against Northwestern. Coach Niele Ivey expressed relief that Citron’s recovery is expected to take only a couple of weeks.
In addition to Westbeld and Hidalgo’s stellar performance, KK Bransford contributed 11 points off the bench, showcasing her offensive prowess and strong rebounding skills. The team’s strong offensive and defensive play led to a significant lead over the Illini, with a final score of 79-68.
The absence of Citron, a key player for the team, did not dampen the spirits of the Notre Dame women. Westbeld, who has been a consistent performer for the team, expressed her determination to play for Citron and fill the void left by her absence. Coach Ivey commended the team’s resilience and emphasized the importance of unity and support within the team.
Hidalgo continued her impressive form, contributing not only with points but also with assists, steals, and rebounds. Despite a few turnovers, Hidalgo’s confidence and the team’s encouragement have been instrumental in her outstanding performance.
Bransford, who returned to the game after missing the first two matches due to injury, made a significant impact with her offensive and defensive contributions. Her versatility and smart play were highlighted by Coach Ivey, who expressed pride in Bransford’s performance.
Looking ahead, the Notre Dame women’s basketball team is gearing up for a busy schedule with upcoming games against Chicago State and Ball State. The team’s recent victories have set the stage for an exciting season, and fans can look forward to more thrilling performances from the talented players.
The Notre Dame women’s basketball team’s triumph over Illinois is a testament to their resilience and teamwork, and it sets the tone for an exciting season ahead. With key players stepping up and delivering impressive performances, the team is poised for success in the upcoming games.