The 2025-26 women’s college basketball season is set to ignite with defending champions UConn claiming the coveted No. 1 spot in the AP preseason poll, signaling another year of high stakes and compelling storylines.
The highly anticipated Associated Press Top 25 preseason women’s basketball poll has dropped, and the verdict is clear: UConn, the reigning national champions, picked up right where they left off, securing the No. 1 ranking. This marks the 13th time since 1995 that the Huskies have started the season atop the poll, and their first since 2017. Their consistent excellence under coach Geno Auriemma continues to set the standard in women’s college basketball.
The Reigning Huskies and Auriemma’s Philosophy
UConn garnered 27 of the 31 first-place votes from a national media panel, a testament to their continued strength even after losing star Paige Bueckers to the 2025 WNBA Draft as the No. 1 overall pick. The team is bolstered by the return of sensational sophomore Sarah Strong and super senior Azzi Fudd, both pivotal figures in their championship run.
Coach Geno Auriemma, ever the pragmatist, expressed a cautious optimism about the No. 1 ranking. “Hopefully it’s a little bit of a confidence builder and not, ‘Oh my god!’” Auriemma shared with the Associated Press. He emphasized avoiding the trap of believing they must dominate every game. His philosophy highlights the importance of leadership, luck, and players rising to the occasion, noting that previous unfulfilled championship seasons often lacked health or fortune.
Historically, a preseason No. 1 ranking has boded well for UConn, with the Huskies winning the national championship in eight of the 12 prior instances they held the top spot. This track record underscores the significance of their current position and the high expectations that accompany it.
South Carolina Leads a Formidable Top Tier
The remaining four first-place votes went to No. 2 South Carolina, last season’s runner-up to UConn. Under coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks have consistently been among the nation’s elite, marking their fifth top-five preseason ranking in the last six years. The perennial clash between UConn and South Carolina promises to be a central narrative of the upcoming season.
Rounding out the top five are UCLA at No. 3, Texas at No. 4, and LSU at No. 5. This year’s poll features a unique historical alignment: for the first time in the 50-year history of the women’s poll, the top four teams in the final poll of last season were picked in the exact same order for the upcoming preseason poll. This unprecedented consistency at the top sets a fascinating stage for the 2025-26 campaign.
The rest of the top 10 includes:
- Oklahoma (No. 6), achieving its highest preseason ranking since 2008.
- Duke (No. 7)
- Tennessee (No. 8)
- N.C. State (No. 9)
- Maryland (No. 10)
Conference Supremacy and Emerging Programs
The depth of talent extends beyond the top 10, with several conferences showcasing significant strength. The Southeastern Conference (SEC) leads the charge, boasting eight teams in the top 25, including an impressive five within the top 10. Following the SEC, the Big Ten features six schools in the poll, the ACC has five, and the Big 12 contributes four. Both the Atlantic-10 and the Big East each have one team ranked, highlighting the widespread competitiveness.
Beyond the traditional powerhouses, several programs are making significant strides:
- Michigan Wolverines (No. 13): This is Michigan’s highest preseason ranking since 2021 (No. 11). After starting three freshmen last year and winning an NCAA tournament game, big things are expected from the talented trio of Syla Swords, Mila Holloway, and Olivia Olson.
- Vanderbilt Commodores (No. 19): Earning their first preseason ranking since 2012, Vanderbilt is led by sophomore sensation Mikayla Blakes. Blakes delivered one of the finest freshman seasons in school history, averaging an astounding 23.3 points per game and scoring over 50 points twice. Coach Shea Ralph’s team is one to watch.
- Richmond Spiders (No. 24): In a truly historic moment, Richmond has received its first-ever ranking in school history. The Spiders, who won their first NCAA tournament game last season, return senior standouts Maggie Doogan and Rachel Ullstrom, and added transfer Tierra Simon.
Richmond coach Aaron Roussell reflected on the program’s achievement, stating, “It says a lot about where the program is right now. I don’t think it was ever a goal, we just wanted to keep putting this program on the map.” This sentiment, reported by Field Level Media, encapsulates the drive of programs working their way into the national spotlight.
A Fan’s Outlook: Rivalries and New Narratives
For dedicated fans, the preseason poll offers more than just numbers; it ignites conversations, fuels rivalries, and sets the stage for new narratives. The perennial debate between UConn and South Carolina fans will undoubtedly dominate discussions, with both teams showcasing immense talent and championship pedigrees.
The rise of teams like Michigan, Vanderbilt, and Richmond also provides exciting storylines. These programs represent the growing depth and competitiveness across women’s college basketball, offering fans new teams to cheer for and fresh rivalries to develop. The mix of established dynasties and burgeoning contenders promises a thrilling season filled with unexpected upsets and memorable performances.
As coach Auriemma noted, escaping the “trap” of expectations will be crucial for UConn, but the thrill of being No. 1 is undeniable. The stage is set, the rankings are out, and the anticipation for tip-off is at an all-time high.
