The Michigan and Michigan State women’s basketball teams have solidified their positions in the latest Associated Press Top 25 poll, with the Wolverines ranked No. 6 for the fifth consecutive week and the Spartans holding steady at No. 24. The poll was released on Monday, December 22, as the teams continued to showcase their strength in the sport.
UConn remains at the top of the rankings after a commanding victory over then-No. 11 Iowa in the Women’s Champions Classic, improving their record to 12-0. The Huskies garnered 25 first-place votes from the 32-member national media panel, while Texas maintained the No. 2 spot with seven first-place votes following their 14-0 start.
In recent action, Michigan defeated Oakland decisively, with a final score of 97-54 in their only game of the week. The Wolverines, who hold a 10-1 overall record and a 1-0 record in Big Ten play, are set to resume conference competition against Oregon on December 29.
Michigan State also enjoyed a successful week, overpowering Indiana State 115-66 in the Cherokee Invitational held in North Carolina. They boast a 10-1 record overall, with a 1-1 mark in the conference. The Spartans will face a challenge as they take on No. 15 Ole Miss on Monday night.
The top seven teams in the poll have remained unchanged, with South Carolina, UCLA, and LSU following Texas. Notably, Texas Tech has made a comeback into the rankings at No. 21 after an impressive victory over former No. 15 Baylor, marking their first win over a ranked opponent this season.
As the season progresses, there are currently 12 undefeated women’s basketball teams, including Alabama, Arizona State, Texas, and Texas Tech, all at 14-0. Conversely, nine teams are still in search of their first victories.
In terms of conference representation, the Big Ten and Southeastern Conference each claim eight ranked teams, while the Big 12 has four and the ACC contributes three. The Big East and Ivy League each have one team in the rankings.
This season has proven competitive, with several teams rising to the occasion. The ongoing success of both Michigan and Michigan State reflects the depth of talent within collegiate women’s basketball, providing exciting matchups for fans to look forward to in the upcoming weeks.