The Most Shocking Upsets in NCAA Women's March Madness History

The Unforgettable Upsets of NCAA Women's March Madness

March Madness is synonymous with Cinderella stories, where underdogs rise to the occasion and topple giants. The NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament has seen its fair share of these thrilling moments, etching them into the annals of college basketball history. Here, we revisit some of the most jaw-dropping upsets that have left fans in awe.

1998: No. 16 Harvard vs. No. 1 Stanford

Harvard's triumph over Stanford in 1998 remains one of the most spectacular upsets in NCAA history. Led by Allison Feaster, who averaged 28.5 points per game, the Crimson traveled 3,000 miles to defeat the top-seeded Cardinal on their home court. This monumental victory marked the first time a No. 16 seed defeated a No. 1 seed in either the women's or men's tournament.

2021: No. 13 Wright State vs. No. 4 Arkansas

Angel Baker's heroics propelled Wright State to their first NCAA tournament win in program history. With a crucial 3-pointer in the final moments, Baker secured a 64-62 lead over Arkansas. This victory was even more significant as Arkansas had been the only team to beat UConn that season before the Huskies' Final Four loss.

2012: No. 13 Marist vs. No. 4 Georgia

Marist made waves in the 2012 tournament with an upset over Georgia. Corielle Yarde's 21 points, including a pivotal three-point play late in the game, sealed the victory. This marked Marist's fifth NCAA tournament win and solidified their reputation as a giant-killer.

2007: No. 13 Marist vs. No. 4 Ohio State

Marist's victory over Ohio State in 2007 was a historic moment for the program. It marked their first second-round berth and also highlighted the underdog potential of teams from the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference. Their journey to the Sweet 16 was a testament to their resilience and skill.

2005: No. 13 Liberty vs. No. 4 Penn State

Liberty's first NCAA tournament win came in 2005 with a stunning upset over Penn State. Katie Feenstra dominated with 22 points and 12 rebounds, leading the Flames to a Sweet 16 appearance. This victory remains a proud moment for the Big South Conference.

2004: No. 13 Middle Tennessee vs. No. 4 North Carolina

Middle Tennessee's victory over North Carolina was a masterclass in defense. Holding the Tar Heels to 0-for-13 from beyond the arc, the Blue Raiders secured a memorable win. Patrice Holmes' clutch free throws in the final moments sealed the deal.

2000: No. 13 Rice vs. No. 4 UC Santa Barbara

Rice's first NCAA tournament appearance was marked by a thrilling upset over UC Santa Barbara. Ending the Gauchos' 26-game winning streak, Kim Smallwood's 22 points led the Owls to a historic victory.

1994: No. 13 Texas A&M vs. No. 4 Florida

Texas A&M's victory over Florida was a landmark moment, marking the first time a No. 13 seed defeated a No. 4 seed. Lisa Branch's decisive free throws in the final seconds lifted the Aggies to a memorable win.

2009: No. 12 Ball State vs. No. 5 Tennessee

Ball State's first NCAA tournament appearance was highlighted by an upset over Tennessee. Porchia Green's 23 points led the Cardinals to a commanding victory, marking the first time the Lady Vols had lost in the first two rounds under Pat Summitt.

2022: No. 10 South Dakota vs. No. 2 Baylor

South Dakota's victory over Baylor was a defensive masterpiece. The Coyotes held the Bears to just 47 points, advancing to their first Sweet 16 in program history and ending Baylor's streak of 12 consecutive regional semifinals.

2021: No. 3 Arizona vs. No. 1 UConn

Arizona's victory over UConn in the 2021 Final Four was a historic moment. Aari McDonald's 26 points led the Wildcats to a commanding win, holding the Huskies to a season low in points. Although they fell to Stanford in the championship game, their journey was nothing short of remarkable.

Relive the Madness

These upsets are a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement that March Madness brings. For more stories, rankings, and the latest news in women's college basketball, visit the ESPN women's college basketball hub.