INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (March 16, 2025) – The stage is set for another exciting chapter of women3s basketball as multiple teams have been announced for the 2025 Women3s Basketball Invitation Tournament (WBIT). This year's selection marks remarkable inclusivity and competitiveness among the 32 teams participating. Notably, the tournament will offer several schools the chance to showcase their talent outside of the NCAA tournament.
Among the featured teams, the Wyoming Cowgirls, Gonzaga Bulldogs, James Madison Dukes, and Villanova Wildcats are generating significant buzz. On March 16, Wyoming (22-11) was highlighted as the No. 4 seed, preparing to host Texas Tech (17-17) on Thursday, March 20. The Cowgirls are eager for their first WBIT experience after being recognized for their stellar season. Tip-off details will be made public no later than 10 am on March 17.
"Season ticket holders will have applications on their accounts to claim their regular seats up until 5 p.m. Tuesday," stated the Wyoming press release, adding to the anticipation among fans eager to support their team. Tickets will become available for purchase beginning Monday at 10 am via the Wyoming athletics website.
Gonzaga has also made waves, being selected as one of the top 16 teams. They will be facing off against UTSA on the same date, another reason for local excitement as they prepare for another game at the McCarthey Athletic Center. Head coach Lisa Fortier expressed enthusiasm about bringing her team's hard work to fruition, proclaiming, "We are really excited... to play in front of the best fans..." This sentiment resonates deeply, reflecting the strong community support for women3s sports.
James Madison also enters the tournament as the No. 1 seed, hosting Davidson on March 20. The Dukes have become accustomed to postseason basketball, marking the 24th time they will appear across multiple tournament formats, including NCAA Championships and WNITs. Their recent history also includes last year, where they fell short against Stony Brook. This time, they aim to assert dominance and continue their winning chronology against Davidson, having previously beaten them convincingly.
Meanwhile, Villanova's 21 postseason appearances over the last 24 years showcase their consistency within women's basketball. Holding the fourth seed and competing against Boston College on March 20, they entered this year’s tournament with aspirations high. The Wildcats look to build momentum post their recent loss against Connecticut, led by their noteworthy freshman guard, Jasmine Bascoe, who averages 16.1 points per game and has emerged as a pivotal player for the team.
The tournament's structure allows for matches held at various campus sites for preliminary rounds, with all games from the first three rounds streamed live on ESPN platforms. The semifinals will see the action shift to Hinkle Fieldhouse at Butler University, following matchmaking on the home sites of higher seeds. This unique arrangement emphasizes the excitement and breadth of competition, attracting attention to lesser-known programs.
The WBIT is not merely another competition but is emblematic of the growth and recognition of women3s basketball. Barbara Burke, chair of the WBIT committee, shared the commitment of the selection panel, stating, "The WBIT selection committee is excited to announce this year's tournament following the success of last year's inaugural tournament." Her emphasis on recognizing competitive talent reflects a pivotal moment for women3s athletics, encouraging participation and viewership.
Past history indicates success for Illinois, who triumphed over Villanova to win the first WBIT Championship, giving the 2025 tournament its own benchmark to aim for. The championship game is set for April 2, where the hard-won identities of the competitors will significantly showcase growth.
The growing visibility and exposure for women3s college basketball create important narratives of breakthroughs and exceptional talent. Coupled with enhanced broadcasting opportunities, the WBIT heralds the future not only for these student-athletes but for women's sports across the board.
With anticipation building, matchups slated for March 20 are poised to deliver thrilling basketball. Teams from all corners of the country will showcase remarkable skills and tenacity, culminating weeks of preparation and determination.
Fans and players alike look forward to cheering on their teams, engaging with this vibrant culture of women3s sports, and witnessing yet another chapter written proudly within the history of collegiate athletics.