Can anyone dethrone UConn? The upcoming NCAA women's basketball season promises high-stakes drama, fierce competition, and the emergence of future WNBA stars. But the biggest question mark hangs over whether UConn can pull off a repeat championship. Let's dive into the key storylines that will define the 2025-26 season.
First things first, let's address the elephant in the room: JuJu Watkins. Sadly, as already announced, we won’t be seeing JuJu Watkins this season, as the reigning National Player of the Year won’t be playing for USC this season after she tore her ACL in the second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament. This is a huge loss for the Trojans and college basketball fans everywhere. But, the show must go on, and there's still plenty to get excited about.
The Quest for a Repeat: UConn's Uphill Battle
Before we delve into the rising stars and conference rivalries, all eyes are on UConn. Last season, Paige Bueckers finally achieved the championship glory that had eluded her, leading UConn to an impressive 82-59 victory over South Carolina. While Bueckers is now shining in the WNBA with the Dallas Wings, the Huskies remain a force to be reckoned with.
The AP preseason poll has them sitting pretty at No. 1, and for good reason. Azzi Fudd, who averaged a solid 13.6 points last year, is expected to elevate her game even further. And with Sarah Strong commanding the paint, UConn boasts a formidable inside-outside presence. They're the team to beat, plain and simple... until someone actually beats them.
But here's where it gets interesting: Their path won't be a cakewalk. UConn faces immediate challenges, with tough matchups against No. 20 Louisville and No. 13 Michigan looming in November. These early tests will be crucial in gauging their championship mettle.
While UConn triumphed over South Carolina in the title game last year, don't count out the Gamecocks, who are ranked No. 2. And let's not forget about other powerhouses like No. 3 UCLA. The competition at the top is incredibly tight. Head coach Geno Auriemma, a coaching legend, will undoubtedly push his team to their absolute limits. The last time the Huskies won it all, that title was part of a historic four-peat. Can they recapture that dynasty magic and go back-to-back? Or will their reign be a one-year wonder? It is worth noting, however, that some analysts believe that UConn's reliance on Fudd may be a vulnerability, as opponents might focus their defensive strategies on containing her. What do you think? Can UConn overcome this potential weakness?
SEC: A Conference of Titans
Regardless of who ultimately hoists the national trophy, the SEC is poised to leave its mark on the season. A staggering eight SEC teams are currently ranked in the top 25, with five residing in the top 10. That's some serious basketball firepower! With powerhouses like LSU, South Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas leading the charge, the South is ready to dominate the college basketball landscape once again.
The Gamecocks are the early favorites to win the SEC, but Texas and LSU are hot on their heels. Once conference play begins, expect a fierce battle for supremacy, resulting in some truly electrifying basketball. The intensity of the SEC is unparalleled, and it's a breeding ground for future stars.
Future WNBA Stars on Display
Beyond the team rivalries, the 2026 WNBA Draft class is brimming with talent ready to make their final collegiate stand. Lauren Betts of UCLA is currently the frontrunner to be the top pick. Last year, she averaged an impressive 20.2 points and 9.5 rebounds for the Bruins. The only thing missing from her resume is a national championship. Last year, she propelled UCLA to their first Final Four appearance on the women's side. Now, she's aiming to emulate Bueckers' journey by ending her college career on top and then being selected No. 1 in the draft.
Olivia Miles, now playing for TCU after four years at Notre Dame, could be the best guard in the NCAA. Watching her unleash her full potential and attempt to elevate the Horned Frogs to new heights will be a captivating storyline. And this is the part most people miss: her transition to a new team could unlock a completely different dimension to her game.
UConn's Azzi Fudd is also projected to be a lottery pick. With Bueckers now in the WNBA, Fudd will have ample opportunities to shine, and the Huskies will need her to be better than ever. Expect her to have a career year, and WNBA teams are already salivating at the prospect of landing a top-five pick to select her. However, some scouts are concerned about Fudd's consistency. Do you think she can overcome these concerns and solidify her status as a top draft pick?
From witnessing UConn's pursuit of a repeat championship to experiencing the week-in-week-out battles within the top conferences and monitoring the depth of this year's draft class, the 2025-26 NCAA season promises to be a thrilling ride. What are you most looking forward to this season, and which player are you most excited to watch? Let us know in the comments below!
