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Women’s March Madness 2025: Top Contenders and Betting Favorites

ByCoach

As the 2025 Women’s NCAA Tournament rapidly approaches, fans are eagerly strategizing to predict the winners and perhaps craft that elusive perfect bracket. This year, the competition is fierce and unpredictable, with top teams like South Carolina and UCLA vying for supremacy.

Despite South Carolina’s undefeated championship season in 2024, UCLA has emerged as the top-ranked team in the USA TODAY Sports women’s basketball coaches poll. However, BetMGM’s odds still favor South Carolina due to their experience and recent successes. The tournament kicks off with the First Four games on March 19, culminating in the Final Four on April 4 and the national championship on April 6 in Tampa, Florida.

Top Contenders for the 2025 Women’s NCAA Tournament

As the excitement builds for the 2025 Women’s NCAA Tournament, it’s crucial to understand the top contenders and their chances of taking home the championship. This year’s tournament promises to be one of the most competitive in recent history, with several teams having a legitimate shot at the title.

South Carolina Gamecocks

Despite not holding the best record this season, the South Carolina Gamecocks are still a formidable force. Fresh off an undefeated championship season in 2024, their experience and proven ability to win under pressure make them a top contender. According to BetMGM, their odds to win the tournament are still higher than UCLA’s.

  • Two national championships in the past three seasons
  • Experienced roster with a strong coaching staff
  • Key players to watch: Aliyah Boston, Zia Cooke

UCLA Bruins

The UCLA Bruins have had an impressive season, boasting a 30-2 record that has earned them the top spot in the USA TODAY Sports women’s basketball coaches poll. Their consistent performance and ability to secure crucial wins make them a team to watch in this year’s tournament.

  • Top-ranked team in the coaches poll
  • Strong defensive and offensive strategies
  • Key players to watch: Charisma Osborne, Michaela Onyenwere

Other Teams to Watch

While South Carolina and UCLA are the frontrunners, several other teams have the potential to make deep runs in the tournament. Here are a few teams that could surprise everyone and make a significant impact:

Stanford Cardinal

The Stanford Cardinal have consistently been a powerhouse in women’s college basketball. With a well-rounded team and a seasoned coach in Tara VanDerveer, they are always a threat in March Madness.

  • Strong tournament history
  • Balanced team with depth
  • Key players to watch: Haley Jones, Cameron Brink

Connecticut Huskies

The Connecticut Huskies are synonymous with success in women’s college basketball. Despite a few setbacks this season, their pedigree and talent make them a team that can never be counted out.

  • Multiple national championships in the past
  • Legendary coach Geno Auriemma
  • Key players to watch: Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd

Key Dates and Events

Mark your calendars for these important dates as the 2025 Women’s NCAA Tournament unfolds:

  • Selection Sunday: March 16, 8 p.m. ET on ESPN
  • First Four games: March 19
  • Final Four: April 4 at Amalie Arena, Tampa, Florida
  • National Championship: April 6 at Amalie Arena, Tampa, Florida

Strategies for Building Your Bracket

Creating a winning bracket is both an art and a science. Here are some strategies to consider as you make your picks:

Research Team Performance

Look at how teams have performed throughout the season. Pay attention to their records, key wins, and any injuries that could impact their performance.

Teams with a strong regular-season performance often carry that momentum into the tournament.

Consider Experience and Coaching

Teams with experienced players and seasoned coaches often perform better under the pressure of March Madness. Their ability to stay calm and execute plays can be the difference between winning and losing.

Look for Cinderella Stories

Every year, lower-seeded teams surprise everyone with deep runs in the tournament. These Cinderella stories are what make March Madness so exciting. Keep an eye on teams that have shown potential but may not be on everyone’s radar.

Conclusion

The 2025 Women’s NCAA Tournament promises to be one of the most thrilling in recent memory.

With top teams like South Carolina and UCLA vying for the championship, and several other strong contenders in the mix, fans are in for an unforgettable March Madness.

Whether you’re a seasoned bracketologist or a casual fan, make sure to tune in and enjoy the excitement.

For more detailed insights and updates, check out the full list of contenders and odds on USA TODAY.

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