Women’s College Basketball Rankings Update
In the latest Associated Press Top 25 poll for women’s college basketball, Iowa has made a significant leap into the top 10 for the first time in two years, while UConn has retained its position as the unanimous number one team. This marks a notable achievement for the Hawkeyes, who last reached this ranking following Caitlin Clark’s senior season. Previously, they had only managed to reach as high as 11th during this current season.
UConn’s Dominance
UConn continues to dominate, earning all 30 first-place votes from a panel of national sports media. The top six teams from last week’s poll remain unchanged, showcasing UConn’s impressive streak of 34 consecutive victories, extending from the previous season. The Huskies’ recent matchup against their former Big East opponents, Notre Dame, was held late Monday, with the Fighting Irish slipping out of the rankings this week.
Top Teams Overview
Following UConn, South Carolina holds firm at the second position, while UCLA occupies the third spot. Despite a recent defeat to South Carolina in a close game (68-65), Texas has maintained its fourth-place ranking. The fifth and sixth spots are claimed by Vanderbilt and LSU, respectively. Michigan’s performance has been rewarded with a rise to seventh place, while Iowa, TCU, and Louisville complete the top 10. Their ascension follows Kentucky’s drop to 11th after a loss to Mississippi State over the weekend, causing the Wildcats to fall four spots.
Notable Comebacks
Duke has made a notable comeback, re-entering the Top 25 at 21st after achieving a remarkable tenth consecutive victory last week. The Blue Devils had originally started the season ranked seventh but faced a rough patch that saw them tumble out of the rankings after losing six out of their first nine games. As of late, they have found their rhythm and returned to prominence.
Princeton has also made strides, climbing to 20th position in the rankings, its first top 20 ranking since 2015. They are enjoying a strong season with a 13-game winning streak, though they faced Maryland earlier this season, which remains their only defeat.
Challenges for Iowa State
Conversely, Iowa State has had a tough stretch and has dropped out of the rankings for the first time this season after suffering its fifth consecutive defeat. The Cyclones were once ranked 10th on December 22 but have seen a steady decline in the polls since then.
Conference Strength
The Southeastern Conference continues to demonstrate its strength, boasting nine teams in this week’s Top 25, mirroring last week’s representation. Following the SEC, the Big Ten has seven ranked teams. Washington rejoins the rankings this week, while Illinois falls out. The Big 12 features five teams, regaining West Virginia, while the Atlantic Coast Conference has two teams represented. The Big East and Ivy League each have one team in the rankings.
Upcoming Highlights
This upcoming week’s highlight involves a crucial SEC clash between No. 5 Vanderbilt and No. 2 South Carolina, scheduled for Sunday. Vanderbilt, aiming to maintain its undefeated record in the SEC, looks to make a significant statement against the formidable Gamecocks, as they chase their best start in two decades.
