The latest AP Top 25 Women’s College Basketball Poll reveals little change at the top as teams prepare for intensified competition heading toward conference play. Despite minimal movement, several teams delivered noteworthy performances, solidifying their positions among the country's elite.
Leading the way is the UCLA Bruins, who retain their No. 1 ranking following their commanding 91-54 victory over Nebraska, marking coach Cori Close's 300th career win with the program. UCLA’s perfect 13-0 record speaks volumes about their dominance this season.
South Carolina remains firmly planted at No. 2 with their 12-1 record, as they focus on improving their offense even as they continue to capitalize on their defensive prowess, recently forcing 16 turnovers against Wofford to convert them to 26 points.
At No. 3, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (11-2) showcased their resilience as Olivia Miles made her mark with back-to-back triple-doubles, becoming the first player from a major conference to achieve this feat since Caitlin Clark. Their next task involves gearing up for their pivotal game against North Carolina.
The USC Trojans maintain the fourth spot following their 11-1 record. Their standout player, JuJu Watkins, has been on fire, achieving remarkable scoring streaks, which has led to exciting prospects for upcoming games.
Texas lingers just behind at No. 5, with their solid 13-1 stature bolstered by consistent performances. They have enjoyed significant success against unranked teams, which gives them momentum heading toward their next bout against Oklahoma.
Oklahoma, ranked 9th with a strong 12-1, finds itself on the brink of conference play and gearing up for another highly-anticipated clash against No. 5 Texas. After the Sooners' recent victory over New Mexico State, where they dominated the boards and second-chance points, confidence is high.
Meanwhile, teams not quite breaking the top ten, such as LSU at No. 6 and Tennessee at No. 15, are also reveling in their successes. LSU boasts an impressive 15-0 record, with Aneesah Morrow making headlines for her remarkable number of double-doubles. Tennessee's consistent scoring capability has put them mid-table with various players performing at high levels.
The AP Poll witnessed slight shifts among teams ranked No. 19-21. Michigan State fell two spots to No. 21 after their defeat at the hands of Maryland, with Iowa (23) and Michigan swapping positions as the Hawkeyes climbed up the ranks.
With the new year approaching, every game counts as teams transition from offseason lull to high-stakes matchups, testing their mettle within their conferences. Teams are eager to prove themselves as they face ranked opponents especially starting from this week.
This week's rankings reflect the teams preparing to showcase their prowess, with the impending matchups expected to draw attention. Notable games include Michigan at UCLA and Notre Dame visiting North Carolina, both promising to impact the rankings as teams gear up for conference play.
Looking forward, fans and analysts alike will keep their eyes on individual performances, team chemistry, and overall results as the season heats up. Every game adds to the narrative of the season, and at this stage, teams are eagerly positioned to seize their moment on the national stage.