This year’s NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament stands out due to the unprecedented depth of talent and competition.
The University of Connecticut (UConn), the most dominant team in Division I, has had a down year for their standards. This year is the first time a UConn team has placed below the top two seeds since 2005. The reason for this lack of performance lies in the fact that a substantial number of key players have been injured throughout the season. Even with these injuries, UConn found a way to land the third seed. UConn’s system revolves around star redshirt junior Paige Bueckers, who’s projected to be a top three pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. Buecker can carry this team to at least the Elite Eight or even further.
2023 Champion Louisiana State University (LSU) heads into the tournament and looks to be back-to-back champions. Their offense, powered by the standout talents of juniors Angel Reese and Aneesah Morrow, shines in scoring and dominating the boards. Their ability to challenge top teams illustrates their depth and championship mettle. Under the strategic guidance of coach Kim Mulkey, LSU is poised to make a significant impact, showcasing its championship defense capabilities and team resilience.
The success of University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is anchored by sophomore Lauren Betts, whose versatility and height make her a defensive wall and a focal point on offense. Their challenging non-conference schedule and impressive experience in the most competitive conference, the Pac-12, have prepared them well for March’s pressures. The Bruins’ ability to control the boards and manage turnovers are key factors in their approach and balanced attack, setting them up as serious contenders. However, UCLA is projected to face off against the reigning champions in the Elite Eight, which could be their last game.
South Carolina enters the tournament with a perfect 32-0 record, showcasing their dominance in women’s college basketball. With no “star” player on their roster, they resemble what mastered teamwork, strategic depth and a high level of talent across the roster can do for a team. This perfect record sets them up as “the team to beat,” making every match against them highly anticipated by fans and formidable for opponents. Last year, they had an impressive 36-1 record but lost to Iowa in the Final Four. The Gamecocks could be the first team in NCAA history to have a perfect record, including the postseason.
The player with the most eyes set on her in all of NCAA Basketball (including men’s) is Iowa senior Caitlin Clark. Known for her extraordinary scoring ability and dynamic playmaking, Clark has been a standout star in women’s college basketball every single year she has played. Her performances have not only led Iowa to numerous victories but have also helped grow women’s basketball to a larger audience. As the tournament progresses, Clark’s impact on the game will be crucial for Iowa’s success, making their matches a must-watch for basketball enthusiasts.
It’s hard to choose a clear winner with this plethora of teams, but I believe that Iowa will take the trophy home this year. Clark is a generational player who has something to prove after losing to LSU in the finals last year. If each team goes undefeated, they will face off against each other in the Final Four, which will be an entertaining watch.
