Women’s College Basketball: The Season of Champions Begins
The wait is finally over, and the Associated Press Top 25 women’s college basketball poll is out! Reigning champions South Carolina take the top spot, earning 27 of the 30 first-place votes. The Gamecocks return four starters from their historic undefeated season, capped off by their thrilling title game victory over Caitlin Clark and Iowa.
A Familiar Face at the Top
South Carolina has dominated the preseason rankings, claiming the number one spot for the fourth time in five years. Coach Dawn Staley acknowledges the pressure that comes with being the reigning champions, but her team remains focused on individual and collective growth.
The Pursuit of Greatness
UConn, led by the seasoned Geno Auriemma, takes the second spot, receiving two first-place votes. The Huskies have been a top-10 staple in the preseason poll for an impressive 31 consecutive years. With a clean bill of health, UConn is poised to make a strong run this season.
Rising Stars and Newcomers
Southern California, led by phenomenal sophomore guard JuJu Watkins, takes the third spot, with the addition of talented transfers Kiki Iriafen and Talia von Oelhoffen. Texas, welcoming back Rori Harmon from injury, and UCLA, boasting a strong team with Charlisse Leger-Walker and Timea Gardiner, round out the top five.
New Faces in the Rankings
Notre Dame, LSU, Iowa State, NC State, and Oklahoma complete the top 10, with Alabama making its first appearance in the rankings since 1999. The Crimson Tide, led by stars Sarah Ashlee Barker and Aaliyah Nye, are riding a wave of momentum after consecutive NCAA tournament appearances.
A New Era Begins
Stanford, meanwhile, finds itself unranked in the preseason for the first time since 1999, marking the end of an era with Hall of Fame coach Tara VanDerveer’s retirement. Kate Paye takes the reins, looking to rebuild the Cardinal program.
Conference Powerhouses
The SEC dominates the rankings with seven teams, including South Carolina, LSU, Ole Miss, Kentucky, and Alabama. The ACC and Big Ten each boast six ranked teams, while the Big 12 has four representatives. UConn and Creighton fly the flag for the Big East.
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