In the competitive world of NCAA women's basketball, the John R. Wooden Award continues to spotlight the nation's most outstanding players. The midseason top 20 list, announced recently, features a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars who are making a significant impact on the court.

Leading Contenders

• Paige Bueckers (UConn): Despite UConn's challenges in high-profile matchups, Bueckers remains a pivotal force, averaging 18.8 points, 4.4 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game. Her shooting accuracy stands at 53.1% from the field and 41.5% from beyond the arc. Bueckers, a previous Wooden Award winner in 2021, is also a top prospect for the upcoming WNBA draft.

• Hannah Hidalgo (Notre Dame): Hidalgo has emerged as a formidable competitor, leading Notre Dame through both nonconference and conference play. With averages of 25.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4.0 steals, and 3.9 assists per game, she is a dual threat on both ends of the court. She recently scored her 1,000th career point in just 44 games, setting a new benchmark for the program.

West Coast Powerhouses

• JuJu Watkins (USC): Watkins has lived up to the high expectations placed upon her this season, averaging 23.9 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.5 assists. She also showcased a remarkable scoring streak, achieving at least 20 points in 16 consecutive games from mid-November to mid-January.

• Lauren Betts (UCLA): Betts has been instrumental in keeping UCLA undefeated this season. Leading her team with 20.2 points and 9.9 rebounds per game, she also excels in rim protection with an average of 2.9 blocks per game, making her a significant presence on defense.

Notable Team Contributions

Four programs boast multiple players on the top 20 list, highlighting their depth and talent:

• Notre Dame: Hannah Hidalgo and Olivia Miles

• UConn: Paige Bueckers and Sarah Strong

• LSU: Flau'Jae Johnson and Aneesah Morrow

• TCU: Sedona Prince and Hailey Van Lith

Looking Ahead

As the season progresses, these athletes continue to push the boundaries of excellence, each vying not only for team success but also for individual accolades. Their performances will be crucial in the lead-up to the NCAA tournament and beyond, potentially shaping the futures of their respective programs and their own professional careers.

For fans and scouts alike, keeping an eye on these players provides a glimpse into the future of women's basketball, both at the collegiate level and in the professional ranks.