The 2025-26 women’s college basketball season was expected to showcase parity, but it culminated in a showdown between the two powerhouse teams, UConn and South Carolina, with UConn claiming its historic 12th national title. Looking ahead to the upcoming season, these two programs remain at the top of the field, despite the uncertainties caused by a flurry of transfers and graduations.
UConn, led by rising star Sarah Strong, is poised to dominate once again with a strong returning lineup that includes Jana El Alfy and Azzi Fudd. South Carolina, known for its reloading ability, will see new faces stepping up to fill the void left by departing players. Texas, with a talented trio of sophomores, is also expected to be a contender in the upcoming season.
In the SEC, teams like LSU, Tennessee, and Oklahoma are reloading with top recruits, setting the stage for another competitive season. Kentucky, Vanderbilt, and Mississippi State are also teams to watch as they aim to make their mark in the conference.
Young teams like Duke, Iowa, Michigan, and Louisville are looking to take the next step in their development. Duke, in particular, is eyeing a deep tournament run with a strong returning core. Iowa and Michigan are banking on their freshman talent to elevate their game, while Louisville is putting its faith in rising star Tajianna Roberts.
In the ACC, NC State and Iowa State are teams with potential, thanks to promising freshman classes and returning talent. Minnesota, the reigning WBIT champs, are also a team to keep an eye on, especially if key players can stay healthy.
Notable teams like Baylor, Ohio State, and Columbia narrowly missed the top 25 rankings, while traditional powerhouses like Notre Dame, USC, and TCU are facing challenges due to roster changes. Despite these obstacles, these teams are expected to make their presence felt in the upcoming season.
The 2025-26 women’s college basketball season promises to be exciting and unpredictable, with top teams vying for supremacy and underdogs looking to make a statement. Fans can expect a thrilling season filled with intense competition and memorable moments.
