UConn Tops Women’s Preseason AP Top 25 Rankings
UConn has retained its position as the top team in women’s college basketball for the upcoming season. The Associated Press Top 25 preseason poll, released on Tuesday, has ranked the defending champions at No. 1. The Huskies received an impressive 27 first-place votes from a panel of 31 national media members.
Top Rankings Overview
Following UConn, the South Carolina Gamecocks secured the second spot with four first-place votes. South Carolina was the runner-up to UConn last season. UCLA and Texas claimed the third and fourth positions, while LSU rounded out the top five. Oklahoma made a noteworthy return, ranking sixth, their highest positioning since 2008.
- 1. UConn
- 2. South Carolina
- 3. UCLA
- 4. Texas
- 5. LSU
- 6. Oklahoma
- 7. Duke
- 8. Tennessee
- 9. N.C. State
- 10. Maryland
Historic Ranking for UConn
This marks the 13th time that UConn has achieved a No. 1 preseason ranking since 1995, and it is their first time in this position since 2017. Coach Geno Auriemma expressed hope that this ranking could serve as a confidence booster for his team. He emphasized the importance of leadership and a bit of luck in their pursuit of the championship.
Conference Dominance
The Southeastern Conference is well represented, with eight teams in the Top 25, including five in the top ten. The Big Ten follows with six teams, while the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) has five teams represented. The Big 12 has four, and both the Atlantic-10 and Big East have one team each.
Noteworthy Teams
Michigan has climbed to No. 13, its highest preseason ranking since 2021. The team, which boasts a young roster, finished last season with a 23-11 record and advanced in the NCAA Tournament. Key players include Syla Swords, Mila Holloway, and Olivia Olson.
Meanwhile, Vanderbilt is ranked 19th, marking its first appearance in the preseason poll since 2012. The team, led by sophomore Mikayla Blakes, had a breakout season, averaging 23.3 points last year.
Richmond has also made history as it enters the Top 25 for the first time. The Spiders, who previously won their inaugural NCAA Tournament game, are returning senior stars Maggie Doogan and Rachel Ullstrom, along with new addition Tierra Simon from Saint Louis. Richmond’s achievement reflects significant progress in its program.
Conclusion
As the season approaches, anticipation grows around the teams that make up the Top 25. With UConn leading the way, fans can expect exciting matchups as schools compete for supremacy in women’s college basketball this year.
