Women’s NCAA Tournament: A Look at the First Two Days and What’s Next
The first two days of the 2025 women’s NCAA tournament have come and gone, and while the drama was minimal, the performances were nothing short of spectacular. With two No. 10 seeds pulling off wins, the tournament has seen its fair share of excitement, even if upsets were scarce for the second consecutive year. But fear not, basketball fans, because the lack of early drama means we’re in for some stronger matchups as the tournament progresses. The heavyweights are still in the game, and some have even made history.
Let’s dive into the standout performances and what they mean for the 32 teams still standing. For the first time in women’s NCAA tournament history, six teams—UConn, LSU, Notre Dame, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas—scored over 100 points. And for just the second time in women’s March Madness history, four teams—the Irish, Gamecocks, Huskies, and Duke—won by more than 50 points. USC and Duke held their opponents to just 25 points each, tying for the second fewest in an NCAA tournament game. Meanwhile, Oklahoma grabbed an NCAA tournament-record 72 rebounds.
These numbers are not just impressive; they add an extra layer of intrigue as we reevaluate the 32 remaining teams. It’s worth noting that for the first time since the tournament expanded to 64 teams in 1994, no teams seeded 11 or lower won a game in the first round. As we look ahead to the second round, which opens at noon ET Sunday on ESPN, there’s plenty of movement in the rankings, starting at the very top.
Top Performers and Upcoming Matchups
- South Carolina Gamecocks: Originally seeded No. 1 (Birmingham 2), they defeated No. 16 Tennessee Tech 108-48. The Gamecocks should have been the No. 1 overall seed coming into the NCAA tournament—and now they are, at least in this exercise. Their 108 points and 60-point victory were the best in an NCAA tournament game in program history. Up next: vs. Indiana (Sunday, 3 p.m. ET, ABC).
- UCLA Bruins: Originally seeded No. 1 (Spokane 1), they defeated No. 16 Southern 84-46. UCLA was the No. 1 overall team on Selection Sunday but drops slightly to No. 2 overall because South Carolina looked so good. Up next: vs. Richmond (Sunday, 10 p.m. ET, ESPN).
- UConn Huskies: Originally seeded No. 2 (Spokane 4), they defeated No. 15 Arkansas State 103-34. Arkansas State got the full effect of what makes UConn’s offense the most efficient in the country. Up next: vs. South Dakota State (Monday, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN).
- USC Trojans: Originally seeded No. 1 (Spokane), they defeated No. 16 UNC Greensboro 71-25. While it’s notable that USC allowed only 25 points, JuJu Watkins’ health is the real news. Up next: vs. Mississippi State (Monday, 10 p.m. ET, ESPN).
- Texas Longhorns: Originally seeded No. 1 (Birmingham 3), they defeated No. 16 William & Mary 105-61. Texas allowing 61 points to Williams & Mary is high, but they were still dominant. Up next: vs. Illinois (Monday, 2 p.m. ET, ESPN).
These teams have set the bar high, and as we move into the next round, the competition will only get fiercer. The second round promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent and strategy, with each team vying for a spot in the Sweet 16. The matchups are set, and the stage is ready for more unforgettable moments in women’s college basketball.
As we continue to follow the tournament, keep an eye on the standout players and teams that have already made history. Whether it’s the scoring prowess of South Carolina, the precision of UCLA, or the defensive strength of USC, each team brings something unique to the table. The journey to the championship is just beginning, and the excitement is only going to build from here.
Originally Written by: Charlie Creme
