Women’s college basketball is set for an exciting day of competition on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, featuring a thrilling triple-header of matchups broadcast nationally. The spotlight will shine brightly on two of the last remaining unbeaten teams, No. 1 UConn and No. 5 Vanderbilt, as they each face tough challenges against highly ranked opponents. Vanderbilt will take on No. 8 Michigan, while UConn hosts No. 23 Notre Dame. Additionally, No. 10 TCU will look to solidify its contender status against the ambitious No. 14 Ohio State.
The Ohio State vs. TCU and Michigan vs. Vanderbilt games form part of the second Coretta Scott King Classic, hosted at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. The action kicks off at 12 p.m. ET with the Buckeyes and Horned Frogs on FOX, followed by the Wolverines and Commodores at 2:30 p.m. ET. The evening culminates with the storied rivalry between Notre Dame and UConn at 5 p.m. ET, also on FOX.
A key focal point across all three games will be the guard play, which is critical for each team’s success:
In the highly competitive Ohio State vs. TCU matchup, the contrast between the two point guards—Jaloni Cambridge of Ohio State and Olivia Miles of TCU—highlights each team’s distinct playing style. Cambridge, a standout sophomore point guard, has rapidly risen through the ranks and led the Buckeyes from an unranked start to their current No. 14 position in the AP poll. After impressive performances, including a near triple-double and scoring bursts of 41 and 33 points, her ability to lead will be crucial against TCU’s stout defense.
Conversely, Miles, a super senior with solid credentials, has consistently proven herself essential to TCU’s offensive setup. Having tallied four triple-doubles this season, her experience will be vital in coordinating an effective offensive strategy against a fierce Ohio State defense.
When Vanderbilt faces Michigan, all eyes will be on Mikayla Blakes of Vanderbilt and Syla Swords of Michigan. Blakes has been a revelation, averaging an impressive 25.6 points per game, showcasing her dual threat as a scorer and playmaker. Her performance has been instrumental in keeping Vanderbilt’s undefeated streak intact.
On the other hand, Swords has had a challenging season; however, she is known for rising to the occasion against top competition, as evidenced by her near victory against UConn earlier. Her ability to contribute significantly could pose a genuine threat to Vanderbilt’s impressive form.
In the evening’s highlight, Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo will aim to lead her team against the formidable UConn. While she has faced significant pressure due to her team’s struggles, Hidalgo has elevated her game, achieving career-highs in several categories. Yet, against a disciplined UConn defense, her challenges will be immense, and while a spirited performance is desirable, the matchup might lean toward a difficult scenario for the Irish.
Overall, this day of women’s college basketball is set to deliver excitement, showcasing the remarkable skill and competitive spirit of the athletes involved. Fans can look forward to an inspiring celebration of the sport and its players.