The energy surrounding women’s college basketball is reaching a fever pitch as conference play begins, and at the center of the excitement stands UConn, still firm and fearless at No. 1 in the AP Top 25. The Huskies didn’t just maintain their crown — they reinforced it with an electrifying 102–35 dismantling of DePaul, a night already rich with emotion thanks to the retirement of Sue Bird’s iconic No. 10 jersey. The moment felt like a symbolic passing of greatness from one era to the next, and UConn embraced it with a statement performance that reminded the nation just how dangerous they are when momentum is on their side.
While the top 10 teams held their positions this week, the landscape was anything but quiet. From double-overtime thrillers to shocking upsets, this early stretch of conference play has delivered drama, resilience, and new storylines that will shape the weeks ahead.
One of the most compelling stories belongs to Maryland, who stayed strong at No. 7 after surviving a heart-stopping 100–99 double-overtime win over Minnesota in their Big Ten opener. The Terrapins stared down a seven-point deficit with just 44 seconds left in the second overtime — a situation most teams would crumble under. But not Maryland. Their comeback showcased grit, unity, and an unwavering belief in each other. What makes their undefeated 11–0 start even more remarkable is that they’ve been fighting through adversity from the beginning. Maryland has already endured three season-ending injuries, including the recent loss of Kaylene Smikle, who has been battling pain but ultimately chose knee surgery. Despite the setbacks, the Terrapins continue to prove that heart can overcome hardship.
While Maryland soared, Ole Miss took a stumble this week, falling to No. 17 after suffering their first loss of the season in a tight 61–60 matchup against Kansas State. The Rebels struggled to generate offensive rhythm and never quite found their pace, but even so, their effort kept them within reach until the final moments. Their slip serves as a reminder that no team — ranked or not — is immune to the early-season unpredictability of college basketball. As they prepare to dive into SEC competition, the loss may well serve as the spark they need to recalibrate and regain their edge.
Offensive struggles weren’t limited to Ole Miss. In one of the week’s most surprising slow starts, USC and Washington combined for only 12 points in the first quarter of their matchup. Yet the game evolved into a battle of defensive intensity and mental toughness. USC steadied themselves and eventually secured a 59–50 win, enough to remain at No. 16. Washington, despite the loss, climbed to No. 20, earning respect for their defensive tenacity and resilience against a formidable Trojans squad. For USC, the road ahead gets even tougher. Their upcoming showdown with No. 1 UConn on Saturday promises to be one of the most anticipated games of the week — a test of preparation, discipline, and competitive fire.
Meanwhile, the excitement isn’t limited to the top 20. This week carries enormous implications for programs at every tier of the Top 25, particularly with rivalry energy brewing across the Midwest. One of Wednesday’s marquee matchups pits No. 10 Iowa State against No. 11 Iowa, a battle that extends far beyond rankings. The in-state rivalry has tradition, tension, and the kind of emotional weight that brings out each team’s best. With both programs climbing and eager to prove themselves as legitimate national threats, this meeting could shape the trajectory of their seasons.
The drama continues into Sunday, when No. 2 Texas prepares to face No. 13 Baylor. Texas has looked dominant, but Baylor possesses the kind of physical, disruptive style capable of giving any opponent trouble. For the Longhorns, this game represents more than another line on the schedule — it’s a chance to validate their top-tier ranking against a dangerous, well-coached rival. For Baylor, it’s an opportunity to break into the conversation as a team capable of upsetting giants.
These emerging narratives — UConn’s refusal to relinquish its throne, Maryland’s resilience, Ole Miss’s hunt for redemption, Washington’s unexpected rise, and the looming heavyweight clashes — reflect the incredible parity and passion that define women’s college basketball today. Every week brings new surprises. Every game presents a chance for history. And every team, whether undefeated or rebuilding, plays with the kind of hunger that only intensifies as conference battles begin.
The beauty of this season lies not only in the rankings but in the relentless spirit of the athletes, the strategic brilliance of the coaches, and the electric energy of fans across the country. As teams gear up for the pivotal weeks ahead, one thing is certain: the fight for dominance is far from over, and the path to March will be shaped by moments of courage, breakthrough, and heart.
With conference play officially underway, the stage is set, the stakes are rising, and the excitement is only beginning. Women’s college basketball is shining brighter than ever — and the best is yet to come.
