NCAA Women's March Madness 2025: Top 32 Teams Ranked and Analyzed

The 2025 NCAA Women's March Madness tournament has kicked off with a bang, showcasing some of the most dominant performances in the history of the event. Here’s a detailed look at the top 32 teams that have advanced, ranked based on their first-round performances and potential for the rest of the tournament.

1. South Carolina Gamecocks

Original Seed: No. 1 (Birmingham 2) First Round: Defeated No. 16 Tennessee Tech 108-48 (Friday) The Gamecocks have solidified their position as the top team in the tournament with a record-breaking performance. Their 108 points and 60-point victory are the best in program history. Key players like Joyce Edwards, MiLaysia Fulwiley, and Tessa Johnson came off the bench to lead the charge.

2. UCLA Bruins

Original Seed: No. 1 (Spokane 1) First Round: Defeated No. 16 Southern 84-46 (Friday) UCLA showed why they were the No. 1 overall seed on Selection Sunday. Despite a slow start, the Bruins dominated the second half, with Lauren Betts leading the scoring with 14 points.

3. UConn Huskies

Original Seed: No. 2 (Spokane 4) First Round: Defeated No. 15 Arkansas State 103-34 (Saturday) UConn’s offense was in full display, with Azzi Fudd scoring 27 points. The Huskies’ efficient play and depth make them a strong contender for the title.

4. USC Trojans

Original Seed: No. 1 (Spokane) First Round: Defeated No. 16 UNC Greensboro 71-25 (Saturday) USC’s defense was impenetrable, allowing only 25 points. JuJu Watkins’ health will be crucial as they move forward in the tournament.

5. Texas Longhorns

Original Seed: No. 1 (Birmingham 3) First Round: Defeated No. 16 William & Mary 105-61 (Saturday) Texas had a strong showing, with Madison Booker leading the team with 20 points. Their ability to maintain dominance will be key in the upcoming rounds.

6. Duke Blue Devils

Original Seed: No. 2 (Birmingham 2) First Round: Defeated No. 15 Lehigh 80-57 (Friday) Duke’s defense was relentless, forcing 30 turnovers. Oluchi Okananwa’s 15 points off the bench were crucial in their victory.

7. TCU Horned Frogs

Original Seed: No. 2 (Birmingham 3) First Round: Defeated No. 15 FDU 73-51 (Friday) TCU’s first NCAA tournament win since 2006 was a team effort, with Hailey Van Lith playing a pivotal role.

8. NC State Wolfpack

Original Seed: No. 3 seed (Spokane 1) First Round: Defeated No. 15 Vermont 75-55 (Saturday) NC State’s strong fourth quarter, led by Aziaha James, secured their victory. Their experience from last year’s Final Four run will be beneficial.

9. Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Original Seed: No. 3 (Birmingham) First Round: Defeated No. 14 SFA 106-54 (Friday) Notre Dame’s 52-point win was overshadowed by Olivia Miles’ injury. Her health will be critical for their tournament hopes.

10. LSU Tigers

Original Seed: No. 3 (Spokane 1) First Round: Defeated No. 14 San Diego State 103-48 (Saturday) LSU’s high-scoring offense, led by Flau'Jae Johnson and Aneesah Morrow, was on full display. Their depth and scoring ability make them a formidable opponent.

Key Matchups to Watch

• South Carolina vs. Indiana (Sunday, 3 p.m. ET, ABC): Indiana gave South Carolina a tough game last year, and this matchup promises to be exciting.
• UConn vs. South Dakota State (Monday, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN): UConn’s offense will be tested against South Dakota State’s fundamentals.
• UCLA vs. Richmond (Sunday, 10 p.m. ET, ESPN): Richmond’s shooting offense will challenge UCLA’s defense.

Conclusion

The 2025 NCAA Women's March Madness tournament is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent history. With powerhouse teams like South Carolina, UConn, and UCLA leading the charge, the road to the championship will be filled with thrilling matchups and standout performances.