The chaos that erupted in college basketball as 2026 kicked off has been nothing short of thrilling, marked by unexpected upsets, emerging international players, and unfortunate injuries. Amidst this tumult, one team continues to assert its dominance: the UConn Huskies.
UConn recently showcased their prowess with a stunning 41-point victory against Creighton, cementing their status with the fourth-best offensive rating and an impressive defensive ranking. They lead the nation with the highest effective field-goal percentage and assists per game, while also excelling at forcing turnovers. Standout player Sarah Strong is once again leading in total win shares. The Huskies typically start strong, as evidenced by their commanding lead against Creighton, where they transformed a modest first quarter lead into a commanding 38-14 advantage by halftime.
The Huskies’ performance this season parallels their strong showing from the previous year, where they thrived even when not challenged during the regular season. With 12 straight wins by margins of at least 26 points, they have positioned themselves strategically to peak come tournament time, a daunting prospect for any competitor.
At Ohio State, sophomore Jaloni Cambridge has emerged as a prodigious talent, captivating fans with a career-high 41-point game against Illinois. Despite lacking a strong three-point game, her ability to penetrate defenses and score efficiently inside has reminiscent shades of Chennedy Carter. Cambridge propelled her team to victory again against Maryland, showcasing her midrange shooting skills. This resurgence puts Ohio State back in the mix within the competitive Big Ten conference.
Meanwhile, Cotie McMahon has redefined her role at Ole Miss, shifting from an inside powerhouse at Ohio State to a versatile ballhandler and scorer in the Rebels’ offense. Her adaptation has been pivotal to Ole Miss’s strong SEC start, including a notable victory over then-ranked No. 5 Oklahoma.
LSU is also bouncing back from early setbacks in conference play. Freshman Grace Knox provided a spark in their recent victory over Texas with her tenacious rebounding efforts. Despite previous struggles, the Tigers showcased their offensive capabilities and regained momentum, highlighting their potential in the competitive landscape of women’s basketball.
In Texas Tech, Bailey Maupin’s standout performances continue to defy expectations as she propels her team to an unbeaten status in the Big 12. Despite being predicted to finish at the bottom of the conference, Maupin’s efficient scoring has been a game-changer, further elevating the Red Raiders’ profile.
As the 2026 season unfolds, fans will have much to watch for with thrilling matchups on the horizon, including TCU at West Virginia and Louisville at Notre Dame. Each game promises to add more excitement to what has already been a remarkable season in college basketball, filled with surprises and standout performances. This season ultimately underscores the resilience and competitive spirit that characterize college sports, leaving fans hopeful for the stories yet to unfold.