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Women’s Basketball 2025 WBIT Bracket and Schedule Announced

ByCoach

The 2025 Women’s Basketball Invitational Tournament (WBIT) is set to captivate basketball enthusiasts with an exciting lineup of games. This year’s tournament, featuring 32 teams, promises to deliver intense matchups and showcase emerging talents from across the nation. The WBIT serves as a platform for teams that narrowly missed out on the NCAA DI women’s basketball tournament, giving them a chance to compete on a national stage.

With top seeds like Virginia Tech, James Madison, Saint Joseph’s, and Colorado leading the pack, fans can expect a thrilling journey to the championship game. Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 WBIT, including the bracket, schedule, and TV channels.

The 2025 WBIT Bracket and Schedule

The 32-team field for the 2025 WBIT was announced on Sunday, March 16. The tournament kicks off with the first round on Thursday, March 20, and culminates in the championship game on Wednesday, April 2.

The first, second, and quarterfinal games will be held at campus sites, while the semifinals and championship will take place at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

First Round Matchups

The first round features some intriguing matchups that are sure to set the tone for the rest of the tournament. Here’s a look at the first-round games:

  • Drake vs. Marquette | 3 p.m.
  • Virginia Tech vs. N.C. A&T | 6 p.m.
  • James Madison vs. Davidson | 7 p.m.
  • Saint Joseph’s vs. UAlbany | 7 p.m.
  • Villanova vs. Boston College | 7 p.m.
  • Seton Hall vs. Quinnipiac | 7 p.m.
  • Minnesota vs. Toledo | 7 p.m.
  • Florida vs. UNI | 7 p.m.
  • Missouri St. vs. Oral Roberts | 7:30 p.m.
  • Belmont vs. Middle Tenn. | 7:30 p.m.
  • Wyoming vs. Texas Tech | 8:30 p.m.
  • Colorado vs. Southeastern La. | 9 p.m.
  • Gonzaga vs. UTSA | 9 p.m.
  • Arizona vs. Northern Ariz. | 9 p.m.
  • UNLV vs. Hawaii | 9:30 p.m.
  • Stanford vs. Portland | 10:00 p.m.

The second round will follow on Sunday, March 23, with the quarterfinals taking place on Thursday, March 27. All these games will be available on ESPN+.

Key Dates and TV Channels

For those looking to catch all the action, here’s a breakdown of the key dates and TV channels for the 2025 WBIT:

  • First Round: Thursday, March 20 | ESPN+
  • Second Round: Sunday, March 23 | ESPN+
  • Quarterfinals: Thursday, March 27 | ESPN+
  • Semifinals: Monday, March 31 at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis | 2:30 and 5 p.m. ET | ESPNU
  • Championship: Wednesday, April 2 at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis | 6 p.m. ET | ESPNU

How the WBIT Works

The WBIT is designed to provide a competitive platform for teams that did not make it into the NCAA DI women’s basketball tournament. The first four teams out of the NCAA tournament, as determined by the DI women’s basketball selection committee, receive an automatic bid and the top four seeds in the WBIT.

This year’s top seeds are Virginia Tech, James Madison, Saint Joseph’s, and Colorado.

Regular season champions of DI conferences that were not selected for the NCAA tournament also automatically qualify, provided they are eligible and not reclassifying institutions. The remaining field is made up of at-large teams chosen by the WBIT selection committee.

Historical Context and Notable Teams

The WBIT offers a unique opportunity for teams to showcase their skills and gain valuable postseason experience. Some of the teams participating in this year’s tournament have a rich history in women’s basketball.

For instance, UConn and Tennessee lead the pack with the most appearances as a No. 1 seed in NCAA tournament history. Additionally, teams like Tennessee, Stanford, and UConn boast the longest active appearance streaks in the NCAA women’s basketball tournament.

Impact on Women’s Basketball

The WBIT plays a crucial role in the landscape of women’s basketball by providing additional opportunities for teams to compete at a high level. It allows players to gain exposure and experience, which can be instrumental in their development. Furthermore, the tournament helps maintain fan interest and engagement, even for teams that did not make it to the NCAA tournament.

Conclusion

The 2025 Women’s Basketball Invitational Tournament is more than just a consolation prize. It’s a celebration of the sport and a testament to the hard work and dedication of the teams involved.

As the tournament unfolds, fans will witness the passion and intensity that make college basketball so special. Whether you’re rooting for a top seed like Virginia Tech or cheering for an underdog, the WBIT promises to deliver unforgettable moments and thrilling basketball action.

Don’t miss a single game of the 2025 WBIT.

Tune in to ESPN+ and ESPNU to catch all the live action, and keep up with the latest updates and results on the NCAA website.

Let the games begin!

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