The world of women’s college basketball is abuzz with excitement as the latest Associated Press Top 25 poll reveals significant changes in the rankings. While perennial powerhouses UCLA and UConn continue to dominate the top spots, it’s the meteoric rise of TCU and the resurgence of Duke that have fans and analysts talking.
TCU Makes History with No. 9 Ranking
The TCU Horned Frogs have achieved a historic milestone, climbing eight spots to secure the No. 9 position in the poll – their highest ranking ever. This impressive feat comes on the heels of a convincing victory over Notre Dame, solidifying TCU’s status as a force to be reckoned with in women’s basketball.
This is a momentous achievement for our program and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our players and coaching staff.
– TCU Head Coach Raegan Pebley
Duke Rejoins the Elite
The Duke Blue Devils also made significant strides, climbing five spots to secure the No. 8 ranking. This marks Duke’s highest ranking in a decade, matching their position from November 24, 2014. The Blue Devils’ impressive performance in a Las Vegas tournament, where they defeated then-No. 9 Kansas State and No. 8 Oklahoma, has reignited the program’s championship aspirations.
Bruins and Huskies Hold Strong
Meanwhile, the UCLA Bruins and UConn Huskies continue to assert their dominance at the top of the rankings. UCLA, who received 25 first-place votes, remains the undisputed No. 1 team after a flawless performance in a three-day tournament in Hawaii over Thanksgiving weekend. UConn, with seven first-place votes, trails closely behind at No. 2, bolstered by two wins in a holiday tournament in the Bahamas.
Notable Risers and Fallers
The poll also saw significant movement among other teams. South Carolina, Texas, and LSU round out the top five, with the Tigers leapfrogging USC to claim the No. 5 spot. The Trojans, along with Maryland, Duke, TCU, and Notre Dame, complete the top 10.
The Fighting Irish, who were ranked third last week, suffered a precipitous drop to No. 10 following losses to TCU and Utah in the Cayman Islands. Kansas State and Oklahoma also felt the sting of defeat, falling to No. 13 and No. 11, respectively.
New Faces and Conference Breakdowns
The poll welcomed two newcomers this week, with Michigan and Michigan State both entering the rankings. This marks the first time both schools have been ranked simultaneously since January 4, 2021. The Big Ten leads all conferences with nine ranked teams, followed by the SEC with seven, the ACC and Big 12 with four each, and the Big East with one.
Rising Tide in Alabama
The Alabama Crimson Tide also made waves, climbing four spots to No. 19 – their highest ranking in 25 years. With an 8-0 record, the Tide have matched their best start since the 2020-21 season and are poised to make a deep run in the tournament.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on the upcoming matchups that could further shake up the rankings. The SEC/ACC challenge promises to deliver thrilling contests, none more anticipated than the clash between No. 4 Texas and No. 10 Notre Dame. The game will feature a battle of elite duos, with Texas stars Madison Booker and Rori Harmon squaring off against Notre Dame’s Olivia Miles and Hannah Hidalgo.
With the collegiate basketball landscape constantly evolving, one thing remains certain: the competition has never been fiercer, and the race for the national championship is wide open. As these talented teams continue to push each other to new heights, fans can expect a season filled with unforgettable moments, stunning upsets, and the emergence of new superstars.
