Muffet McGraw Criticizes Hannah Hidalgo’s Controversial Anti-Gay Social Media Post
In a recent episode of the iHeart podcast *Good Game with Sarah Spain*, former Notre Dame head coach Muffet McGraw shared her thoughts on a controversial social media post by Notre Dame sophomore guard Hannah Hidalgo.
The post, which Hidalgo has since deleted, featured a snippet of a conversation between CNN anchor Don Lemon and political commentator Candace Owens discussing same-sex marriage.
McGraw expressed her disappointment in Hidalgo’s actions, emphasizing the importance of accountability and trust within a team. This incident has sparked ongoing discussions about the impact of personal beliefs on team dynamics and the broader sports community.
The Controversial Post
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Hannah Hidalgo, a standout player for Notre Dame, found herself in hot water after sharing a controversial video on social media in July 2024.
The video featured a conversation between Don Lemon, a married gay man, and Candace Owens, who expressed her belief that same-sex marriage is a sin.
Despite deleting the post soon after, the fallout from her actions continues to be a topic of discussion this season.
Hidalgo’s Impact on the Court
There’s no denying Hidalgo’s talent and skill on the basketball court.
In her first collegiate season, she became only the fifth player in women’s college basketball history to earn First Team All-American honors, lead the nation in steals, and take on a leadership role within the Fighting Irish program.
Her performance in key games, such as Notre Dame’s victory over the UConn Huskies where she scored 29 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and dished out eight assists, showcases her ability to excel under pressure.
Muffet McGraw’s Perspective
During her appearance on *Good Game with Sarah Spain*, Muffet McGraw did not hold back when discussing Hidalgo’s social media post.
McGraw, who led Notre Dame to two National Championships and coached from 1987 to 2020, made it clear that she found Hidalgo’s actions to be a poor choice.
She emphasized that believing and publicly sharing such views can be damaging, especially in a sport where there are numerous gay players.
Impact on Team Dynamics
McGraw highlighted how Hidalgo’s post could affect the locker room environment.
She described it as almost insulting to her teammates and everyone involved in the game of basketball. She stressed the importance of accountability, honesty, and trust in building a successful team, noting that it’s challenging to trust someone who believes that your way of life is wrong.
Broader Implications for Women’s Basketball
Hidalgo’s situation has broader implications for women’s basketball and the sports community as a whole.
The incident raises questions about how personal beliefs intersect with team dynamics and the responsibilities of athletes as public figures.
As Hidalgo continues to be a high draft prospect for the WNBA, the league, which has a significant number of openly gay players, will be watching closely to see how she navigates this controversy.
Lessons from Other Athletes
Hidalgo is not the only Notre Dame athlete to face backlash for anti-LGBTQIA+ views.
Former Fighting Irish soccer star Korbin Albert also came under fire for similar social media posts.
Albert’s experience, which included boos from fans whenever she stepped onto the field for the USWNT and a subsequent apology, serves as a cautionary tale for Hidalgo and other athletes.
Moving Forward
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how Hidalgo and her teammates will address this issue.
The importance of accountability and open dialogue within the team cannot be overstated. Whether Hidalgo will publicly respond or take steps to mend relationships with her teammates is still unknown.
The Role of Coaches and Leadership
Coaches and team leaders play a crucial role in navigating such controversies.
McGraw’s comments underscore the need for strong leadership and the ability to foster an inclusive and respectful team environment.
Current Notre Dame head coach Niele Ivey will need to address this situation carefully to maintain team cohesion and focus on their common goals.
Conclusion
The incident involving Hannah Hidalgo’s social media post serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between personal beliefs and professional responsibilities.
As athletes continue to use their platforms to express their views, the sports community must grapple with the implications of these actions on team dynamics and inclusivity.
For Hidalgo, the path forward will require careful consideration and a commitment to accountability and respect for her teammates and the broader community.
For more details on Muffet McGraw’s thoughts and the ongoing discussions around this controversy, you can read the full article on SB Nation.