2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament Begins With Major Upsets

The 2025 NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Tournament is officially underway, featuring teams from across the nation vying for glory and a shot at the championship. With an exhilarating bracket now set, it promises fierce competition filled with remarkable stories, surprises, and heart-stopping moments.

The tournament kicked off with excitement and anticipation as Southern University secured its first-ever NCAA Tournament victory, defeating UC San Diego 68-56 in the First Four. This victory marks a significant milestone in Southern's program history. The university now finds itself in the main draw as a No. 16 seed, gearing up for a daunting challenge against the top-seeded UCLA on March 21.

Meanwhile, Iowa State also marked their place in the postseason by edging out Princeton with a 68-63 win during the First Four, advancing as the No. 11 seed. Their next matchup will see them up against No. 6 seed Michigan, as they continue their quest in the tournament.

As teams prepare for the knockout rounds, the first round brings a host of key matchups. Defending champions South Carolina, a formidable force, will face Tennessee Tech, while No. 1 seed Texas eagerly awaits the winner of the High Point vs. William & Mary contest.

The day’s action is packed full with thrilling games, setting the stage for March Madness. Starting with the match between No. 6 Michigan and No. 11 Iowa State at 11:30 a.m. ET, the excitement continues as teams battle for their chance to advance. This year, the tournament will see Ohio State playing against No. 13 seed Montana State, further showcasing the depth of talent across the roster.

Freshman Jaloni Cambridge of Ohio State expressed her excitement for her first NCAA Tournament, reflecting on how surreal this moment is for her. “It’s very surreal to know that I’m here,” Cambridge remarked. She is among the six new players on the Buckeyes roster, stepping into a crucial role following former star Jacy Sheldon’s departure. Cambridge has had an impressive season, averaging 16 points, 3.9 assists, and 2.1 steals per game, ultimately leading to her earning the Big Ten Freshman of the Year honor.

“Coming in, I was just trying to be who I have been trying to be my whole life,” she said. Cambridge’s journey began with a stunning 31-point performance in her debut against Cleveland State. As Ohio State prepares to face Montana State later today at 5:30 p.m. ET, Cambridge is determined to rise to the occasion.

However, Cambridge’s recent performance has seen a dip. Despite her past success, she struggled during the Big Ten Tournament, scoring only 6 points against Iowa and exiting with an ankle injury during Ohio State’s semifinal against UCLA. Cambridge remains undeterred. “No injury can push me back,” she affirmed, displaying her resilient spirit as the team looks to advance in the tournament.

As Southern University and Iowa State etched their names into the annals of NCAA history, the tournament offers a perfect stage for student-athletes to showcase their skills and determination. The thrill of winning enhances the stories of those who dare to challenge the odds, whether it be a No. 16 seed seeking an upset or a powerhouse striving to defend their title.

The full tournament schedule promises to be an exhilarating spectacle. Key games, including the matchup of the No. 5 seed Kansas State against the No. 12 seed Fairfield, will be showcased in front of a passionate audience at Memorial Coliseum in Lexington, KY at 2:30 p.m. ET today. A potential victory could propel Kansas State deeper in the tournament.

As the clock ticks down to the tip-off of each match, teams will rely on strategy, teamwork, and grit to secure a victory. With the tournament extending through to the championship finding its winner on April 6, every game will matter

The excitement across the nation is palpable as the first round of the tournament rolls on. Fans are eager to see if their teams can navigate through the fierce competition, fueled by emotion and ambition. As March Madness unfolds, every dribble, every shot, and every moment counts in this thrilling annual sports showcase.