2025-26 NCAA Women's Basketball Season Preview

As the 2025-26 NCAA women's basketball season approaches, all eyes are on the UConn Huskies as they aim to defend their national championship. With 100 days until the season tips off on November 3, we break down the top storylines, contenders, and predictions for the upcoming season.

Can UConn Go Back-to-Back?

The UConn Huskies, led by legendary coach Geno Auriemma, are looking to repeat as national champions for the first time since their four-year reign from 2013 to 2016. Despite losing No. 1 draft pick Paige Bueckers to the WNBA, the Huskies return with a talented roster featuring Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong. The question remains whether the 71-year-old Auriemma might be considering retirement, but with the program performing at such a high level, it seems he’s enjoying the ride too much to step away just yet.

Top Contenders

South Carolina Gamecocks: After falling to UConn in the championship game last season, South Carolina is poised for revenge. With the addition of NCAA leading scorer Ta’Niya Latson from Florida State, the Gamecocks have the firepower to make another deep run.

UCLA Bruins: Coming off their first Final Four appearance in the NCAA era, UCLA returns with a strong core, including Lauren Betts and Kiki Rice. The Bruins are looking to build on their success and challenge for the title.

Texas Longhorns: The Longhorns made their first Final Four since 2003 last season and return with a loaded roster, including Madison Booker and Rori Harmon. Texas is a serious contender in the SEC.

Key Storylines

• JuJu Watkins’ Return: USC’s star guard suffered a torn ACL in March, leaving her status for the season uncertain. Her return could be a game-changer for the Trojans.

• Revenue Sharing Impact: For the first time, schools can pay athletes directly, with a max budget of $20.5 million. This could widen the gap between the top programs and the rest.

• SEC Dominance: With the addition of Texas and Oklahoma, the SEC is stronger than ever. The conference produced 10 NCAA tournament teams last season, including South Carolina and Texas.

Wild Predictions

1. UConn Goes Undefeated: With a stacked roster, the Huskies could run the table and secure their seventh undefeated season in program history.

2. SEC Final Four Sweep: The SEC could dominate the Final Four, with South Carolina, LSU, Texas, and Tennessee all making deep runs.

3. Tennessee Returns to the Final Four: Under new coach Kim Caldwell, the Lady Vols could make their first Final Four appearance since 2008.

Nonconference Matchups to Watch

• UConn vs. Louisville (Germany, Nov. 5): A historic matchup in the Armed Forces Classic, marking the first time a women’s game is included in the event.

• Duke vs. South Carolina (Las Vegas, Nov. 26): A rematch of last season’s Elite Eight clash, with both teams expected to be in the top 10.

• Texas vs. UCLA (Las Vegas, Nov. 26): A showdown between two Final Four teams from last season.

Freshmen to Watch

• Jasmine Davidson (USC): With JuJu Watkins’ status uncertain, Davidson could step into a larger role and make an immediate impact.

• Sienna Betts (UCLA): The younger sister of Lauren Betts, Sienna brings size and skill to the Bruins’ frontcourt.

• Aaliyah Chavez (Oklahoma): The No. 3 recruit in the class of 2025, Chavez is expected to bring her dynamic playmaking to the Sooners.

Transfers to Watch

• Ta’Niya Latson (South Carolina): The NCAA’s leading scorer last season, Latson brings her offensive prowess to the Gamecocks.

• Olivia Miles (TCU): After a strong season at Notre Dame, Miles looks to lead TCU to another deep tournament run.

• MiLaysia Fulwiley (LSU): A dynamic playmaker, Fulwiley joins an already stacked LSU backcourt.

Breakout Candidates

• Hannah Stuelke (Iowa): The senior forward is poised for a breakout season after a strong showing with Team USA.

• Jordan Lee (Texas): The sophomore guard showed flashes of brilliance last season and could take a big step forward.

• Nunu Agara (Stanford): After a strong sophomore campaign, Agara is expected to lead the Cardinal back to the NCAA tournament.

All-America Candidates

• Lauren Betts (UCLA): The reigning Naismith Defensive Player of the Year is a dominant force in the paint.

• Sarah Strong (UConn): The No. 1 recruit in the 2024 class, Strong is already drawing comparisons to Maya Moore.

• Azzi Fudd (UConn): After a healthy season, Fudd is a strong candidate for Player of the Year.

New Coaches to Watch

• Kellie Harper (Missouri): After a successful stint at Tennessee, Harper looks to rebuild the Tigers’ program.

• Adia Barnes (SMU): The former Arizona coach takes over a struggling SMU program in the ACC.

• Becky Burke (Arizona): After leading Buffalo to the WNIT title, Burke looks to bring success to Arizona.

Conclusion

The 2025-26 NCAA women’s basketball season promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. With UConn aiming for back-to-back titles, a loaded SEC, and a host of talented freshmen and transfers, the competition will be fierce. Stay tuned as the season unfolds and the road to the Final Four begins.