The landscape of women’s college basketball is heating up as the NCAA Evaluation Tool (NET) provides a detailed ranking system for Division I teams, crucial for determining participation in the upcoming March Madness tournament. The NET system evaluates teams based on game results, strength of schedule, location of games, and offensive and defensive efficiency. This ranking system goes beyond mere records, placing matchups in four quadrants that reflect the strength of opponents faced.
According to the latest NET rankings released on December 29, here are the top ten teams making headlines:
10. Iowa (previous: 12) – The Hawkeyes re-enter the top ten after a commanding 99-76 victory over Penn State, pushing Michigan State down to 11th.
9. TCU (previous: 9) – TCU maintained its ranking without playing during the past week, demonstrating its solid position within the top ten.
8. Kentucky (previous: 7) – Despite a 80-42 win against Hofstra, Kentucky remains aware of their need to boost their performance in future matchups as they prepare for more challenging opponents.
7. Maryland (previous: 10) – Maryland climbed to seventh after a decisive 97-59 win over Wisconsin, starting their Big Ten campaign with a perfect 14-0 record.
6. Michigan (previous: 6) – Michigan’s rank remains unchanged despite a two-overtime victory against Oregon, thanks in part to Oregon’s own NET ranking.
5. LSU (previous: 5) – LSU’s schedule has so far avoided top-ranked opponents, but this will change significantly as they face more formidable challengers in the coming weeks.
4. UCLA (previous: 4) – UCLA remains fourth in the rankings after defeating Ohio State, a game that showcased their strength against tough competition.
3. Texas (previous: 3) – The Longhorns achieved a dominant win against Southeastern Louisiana but face pressure from other rising teams.
2. South Carolina (previous: 2) – The Gamecocks had a remarkable win against Florida Gulf Coast, continuing to press against Texas for better positioning in the rankings.
1. UConn (previous: 1) – UConn holds the top position after a lopsided victory over Butler, showcasing their prowess in the league and holding a strong schedule.
The rankings also show notable changes among teams as some experience significant rises and falls within a single week. Illinois State, for example, improved its standing significantly after a win, while teams like Purdue Fort Wayne faced setbacks due to narrow defeats.
Additionally, attention is turning towards the bubble teams that are teetering on the edge of NCAA tournament selection. Currently, South Florida, UC Irvine, and Penn State are among those on the cusp as they prepare for crucial matchups that could enhance their chances for an at-large bid to March Madness.
As the season unfolds, the dynamics within women’s college basketball remain exciting, with emerging talents and established programs battling for supremacy. Fans can anticipate engaging matchups that will shape the ranking landscape in the lead-up to the tournament.