NCAA Women's Basketball Weekly Recap: Upsets, Standouts, and Championship Contenders

Major Upsets and Key Performances

The past week in NCAA women's basketball was marked by significant upsets and standout individual performances. USC shocked the basketball world by defeating previously undefeated UCLA, with JuJu Watkins leading the charge with an impressive stat line of 38 points, 11 rebounds, 8 blocks, and 5 assists. Meanwhile, UConn ended South Carolina's 71-game home winning streak, thanks to Azzi Fudd's 28-point performance, including six three-pointers. Texas also made headlines with a strong rally to beat LSU, further solidifying their position as a top contender.

Texas Longhorns: The Hottest Team in the Nation?

The Texas Longhorns have been on a tear, winning 10 consecutive games, including victories over three top-10 teams. Their recent success has positioned them as a strong candidate to win or tie for the regular-season title in their first season in the SEC. Madison Booker, who has been averaging 21.5 points over the last six games, has been instrumental in the Longhorns' surge. After a tough loss to South Carolina earlier in the season, Texas has rebounded impressively, dispelling doubts about their ability to compete for the championship.

UConn Huskies: Peaking at the Right Time

UConn's recent win over South Carolina has reignited talks of their championship potential. With Azzi Fudd finding her rhythm—she has averaged 26.3 points in her last three games—the Huskies are peaking at the right time. Their ability to transition, rebound, and shoot the three effectively has returned, making them a formidable opponent as the postseason approaches.

South Carolina Gamecocks: Areas for Improvement

Despite their recent struggles, including two losses in eight days, the South Carolina Gamecocks remain a top team. However, their vulnerabilities have been exposed. Both Texas and UConn exploited these weaknesses, particularly in rebounding and defense. Coach Dawn Staley will need to address these issues as the Gamecocks prepare for the NCAA tournament.

National Championship Race: Wide Open

The national championship race is more open than ever, with several teams showing they have what it takes to cut down the nets in Tampa. USC, UCLA, South Carolina, Notre Dame, UConn, and Texas are all strong contenders, each with unique strengths. As March Madness looms, the competition is heating up, setting the stage for an exciting postseason.

Standout Freshmen and Future Stars

The future of women's college basketball is bright, with several freshmen making significant impacts. Mikayla Blakes of Vanderbilt set the D-I freshman scoring record with a 55-point game, highlighting the depth of individual talent in the league. As the season progresses, these young stars will be closely watched as they help shape the future of the game.