Hannah Hidalgo is one of one and deserves to be treated as such. Much of the talk surrounding the first overall pick focuses on JuJu Watkins. Will the young star declare? Will she take up the option of spending another year at USC? Hidalgo continues to be the underdog in a fight she should already be winning.
There is no denying Watkins' superstar potential. Even after her brutal ACL injury that stole one year of her college career, the 21-year-old is still as aggressive as ever. In her season debut, the talented USC guard impressed with a 21-point, 5-rebound performance. Most impressively, Watkins set her ego aside to let Jazzy Davidson and Saniyah Hall showcase their own exciting attributes.
Watkins is eligible to declare for the 2027 WNBA draft after her senior year, but she could return to USC for an extra season if she doesn't feel ready to make the professional leap.
Many believe this will be the deciding factor in the race for the first overall pick -- it shouldn't be. Hidalgo's relentless pursuit of greatness should put her in the conversation regardless of which players enter to process.
Hidalgo deserves to decide her own fate
Throughout her college career, Hidalgo has always felt like the underdog looking to prove herself in the big moments. Time and time again, she has single-handedly led Notre Dame to famous victories. Case in point, Hidalgo recorded 31 points, 11 rebounds, 7 assists, and 10 steals as the Fighting Irish pulled off a shock 67-64 Elite 8 victory over Vanderbilt in 2025.
When the light shines brightest, Hidalgo performs. This is the level of consistency and courage WNBA franchises should be desperate to land. While Jordin Canada has had a remarkable career, Hidalgo's comparison to the Atlanta Dream star is slightly unfair. Hidalgo's offensive potential is quite incredible considering she is an undersized guard.
Although it's still very early in the NCAA season, the electric guard is already on course for another career-best scoring campaign. Hidalgo is averaging 29.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 6.5 steals per game. Of course, her true capabilities won't be tested until Notre Dame faces off against ranked opponents. However, evidence suggests this won't be an issue.
Hidalgo's fate shouldn't hinge on Watkins' draft declaration. She is far too talented to let others dictate her future. Her tenacity, versatility, and potential are there for every WNBA franchise to see. Whether a team is in transition or making a championship tilt, Hidalgo would be a difference-maker -- that's the true sign of a star.
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