ESPN.
Just when you think you’ve seen it all, Notre Dame star Hannah Hidalgo gets forced to sit during a Sweet 16 game against Oregon State because of her nose ring.
During the second quarter, Hidalgo was sent to the bench to get her nose ring removed. It was a stressful operation for Notre Dame’s staff.
Hidalgo’s nose ring wasn’t an issue for officials all season. We’re not sure what changed during the NCAA Tournament.
“I’m aware of what the rules are as far as jewelry goes, but blame the refs also for not doing there jobs then,” a fan wrote on X. “Hannah Hidalgo been wearing it all season and they are now just saying something. Make that make sense.”
Luckily for the Fighting Irish, Hidalgo’s absence won’t linger into the second half. She’ll be available for the final 20 minutes of the game.
Notre Dame star Hannah Hidalgo had to miss game action as she was forced to remove her nose ring. pic.twitter.com/yYE7gdILd2
— The Sporting News (@sportingnews) March 29, 2024
Hidalgo has been outstanding for Notre Dame this season, averaging 22.9 points, 6.2 rebounds and 5.6 assists per game.
In the Round of 32, Hidalgo had 19 points in a double-digit win over Ole Miss. She currently has six points against Oregon State.
The second half of this Friday’s game between Oregon State and Notre Dame will be televised on ESPN.