Top 25 Women’s College Basketball Rankings: Post-Christmas Shakeups and Surprises
As the holiday season wraps up, the latest AP Poll for Women’s College Basketball has arrived, shedding light on the teams that have risen to the top and those still fighting to find their rhythm. The rankings, which come just after Christmas week, showcase some exciting developments, with both expected powerhouses and rising underdogs making their mark on the 2023-24 season.
Top Contenders Hold Strong
At the top of the rankings, the usual suspects remain in control. Defending champions, the South Carolina Gamecocks, continue to dominate, holding onto their No. 1 spot with an undefeated record. Head coach Dawn Staley’s squad remains a force to be reckoned with, as their blend of experienced upperclassmen and talented newcomers makes them a formidable opponent for anyone.
Following closely behind, the UConn Huskies sit at No. 2. Despite some injuries early in the season, UConn has shown its resilience, thanks to standout performances from players like Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd. The Huskies have bounced back strong and remain a top contender in the race for the national title.
Surprises and Shifts in the Rankings
While the top spots have largely remained stable, the rankings have seen some intriguing shifts. LSU, under the leadership of head coach Kim Mulkey, has surged to No. 3, thanks to a series of dominant victories. With superstar Angel Reese leading the charge, LSU looks poised to make a deep run in the postseason, and their rapid rise has made them one of the most talked-about teams in women’s basketball.
Other teams making notable climbs include Virginia Tech and Indiana, who both moved up after impressive performances over the past few weeks. Virginia Tech, in particular, has gained attention with its balanced offensive attack and suffocating defense, moving into the top 10 for the first time this season.
The Road Ahead
Looking ahead, the next few weeks of the season promise to be filled with drama as conference play intensifies. Teams like Stanford and Notre Dame, who have had some bumps early on, are expected to continue making adjustments. Meanwhile, lower-ranked teams like Texas and Ohio State are poised for potential upsets, making the race for the top spots even more unpredictable.
The Women’s College Basketball season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent years, with plenty of high-stakes matchups and surprises still to come. Keep an eye on the rankings as teams gear up for the second half of the season and the final push toward March Madness.
