The 2025-26 college basketball season is starting off with excitement, marked by thrilling matchups and breakout performances from freshmen. The first week showcased several nail-biting games between ranked teams, including an overtime thriller between Arkansas State and Tarleton State.
The impact of the transfer portal is evident, as teams quickly integrate new talent. Freshman players like Yarden Garzon from Indiana and Oluchi Okananwa from Duke are already making significant contributions, mirroring seasoned players under Maryland’s Brenda Frese. Similarly, Gianna Kneepkens from Utah at UCLA, and Ta’Niya Latson from Florida State at South Carolina are showing their readiness to shine on the big stage.
Kudos to programs that have scheduled tough opponents early in the season. Texas has particularly stood out by taking on mid-major powerhouses like Richmond and South Dakota State, as well as traditional powerhouses North Carolina and Baylor. This commitment to challenging games before conference play not only showcases the talent across college basketball but also enhances the overall excitement for fans.
Among the standout performances of week one was Jazzy Davidson of USC, who had an impressive showing against NC State, turning around a tough first half to finish strong with key offensive plays. Following an underwhelming start, Davidson showcased her growth, not only in scoring but also in defensive prowess, positioning herself as a player to watch this season.
Aaliyah Chavez, another top recruit, is navigating a different landscape at Oklahoma with a seasoned lineup. She exhibited a rapid playing style that creates opportunities, yet her challenge remains finding the right balance between scoring and playmaking against a veteran team.
Defensively, Texas had a dominant show against Richmond, displaying their size and depth. With standout performances from players like Madison Booker, they set a strong precedent for future matchups this season.
Duke is adapting its lineup this season following the graduation of Reigan Richardson, adjusting personnel in search of optimal synergy on the court. Coach Kara Lawson is actively experimenting with starting lineups to maximize their effectiveness.
Meanwhile, NC State has been a thrill to watch, particularly with the addition of Khamil Pierre, whose isolation plays have made significant impacts, though a more team-oriented approach could enhance their overall performance.
Looking ahead, several games promise to deliver excitement, including Oklahoma vs. UCLA and South Carolina at USC. The action-packed start to the season suggests that fans can expect a competitive and entertaining collegiate basketball landscape. Enthusiasts should stay tuned as teams fine-tune their strategies and adapt to the evolving dynamics of this exhilarating sport.