Women’s Sweet 16 Predictions: Key Players and Game Picks

The 2025 Women’s NCAA Tournament is heating up as we head into the Sweet 16. Highly anticipated matchups are set to take place in Birmingham, Alabama, and Spokane, Washington. While the first two rounds saw few upsets, the stage is now set for some thrilling showdowns.

From the historic Duke vs. North Carolina rivalry to the powerhouse clash between South Carolina and Maryland, this year’s tournament promises excitement and drama. Unfortunately, USC will be without their star player JuJu Watkins due to a season-ending injury, but the competition remains fierce.

Let’s dive into what to expect from each game and the expert predictions for the winners.

Duke vs. North Carolina: A Rivalry Rekindled

The first-ever NCAA tournament meeting between Duke and North Carolina is set to be a nail-biter. North Carolina’s Alyssa Ustby, who was pivotal in their earlier win against Duke, is back from injury and ready to make an impact.

Duke, known for its formidable defense under Coach Kara Lawson, will rely on their defensive prowess to secure a win. Reigan Richardson, a key player from last year’s Sweet 16 run, could be the X factor if she returns to form.

Expert Predictions

• Andrea Adelson: Duke 59, UNC 55
• Kendra Andrews: Duke 59, UNC 56
• Katie Barnes: Duke 58, North Carolina 51
• Charlie Creme: Duke 61, North Carolina 57
• Kevin Pelton: Duke 60, North Carolina 56
• Alexa Philippou: Duke 45, North Carolina 43
• Michael Voepel: North Carolina 61, Duke 57

South Carolina vs. Maryland: Depth vs. Determination

South Carolina’s depth is their greatest asset, with Coach Dawn Staley able to rotate up to 10 players effectively. The Gamecocks’ bench strength and versatility make them a formidable opponent.

Maryland, on the other hand, has shown resilience and scoring prowess, particularly in their contested shots against Alabama. The key for Maryland will be to compete on the boards despite their lack of height.

Key Players to Watch

• Te-Hina Paopao (South Carolina)
• Sarah Te-Biasu (Maryland)
• MiLaysia Fulwiley (South Carolina)

Expert Predictions

• Andrea Adelson: South Carolina 70, Maryland 55
• Kendra Andrews: South Carolina 73, Maryland 59
• Katie Barnes: South Carolina 75, Maryland 59
• Charlie Creme: South Carolina 68, Maryland 47
• Kevin Pelton: South Carolina 84, Maryland 68
• Alexa Philippou: South Carolina 81, Maryland 67
• Michael Voepel: South Carolina 85, Maryland 70

NC State vs. LSU: Fresh Faces and Veteran Stars

NC State has shown significant improvement since their early-season loss to LSU, thanks to the development of freshmen Tilda Trygger and Lorena Awou. However, LSU’s big three—Flau’Jae Johnson, Aneesah Morrow, and Mikaylah Williams—remain a formidable force.

The outcome may hinge on LSU’s supporting cast stepping up to capitalize on opportunities created by their star trio.

Key Players to Watch

• Madison Hayes (NC State)
• Flau’Jae Johnson (LSU)
• Aneesah Morrow (LSU)

Expert Predictions

• Andrea Adelson: LSU 75, NC State 65
• Kendra Andrews: LSU 81, NC State 78
• Katie Barnes: LSU 78, NC State 72
• Charlie Creme: LSU 84, NC State 76
• Kevin Pelton: LSU 76, NC State 73
• Alexa Philippou: LSU 83, NC State 81
• Michael Voepel: LSU 80, NC State 75

UCLA vs. Ole Miss: Battle-Tested vs. Rising Stars

UCLA’s Lauren Betts has been a standout, becoming the first player in program history to record a 30-point, 10-rebound tournament game. Ole Miss, though battle-tested, will need stellar performances from Madison Scott and Sira Thienou to compete.

Kiki Rice, UCLA’s dynamic guard, will be crucial in supporting Betts and capitalizing on defensive attention.

Key Players to Watch

• Lauren Betts (UCLA)
• Madison Scott (Ole Miss)
• Kiki Rice (UCLA)

Expert Predictions

• Andrea Adelson: UCLA 66, Ole Miss 53
• Kendra Andrews: UCLA 72, Ole Miss 53
• Katie Barnes: UCLA 70, Ole Miss 52
• Charlie Creme: UCLA 69, Ole Miss 55
• Kevin Pelton: UCLA 71, Ole Miss 63
• Alexa Philippou: UCLA 72, Ole Miss 60
• Michael Voepel: UCLA 75, Ole Miss 62

TCU vs. Notre Dame: Experience vs. Youth

Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo is expected to be the standout player, bringing energy and passion to the court. TCU’s Hailey Van Lith, with her extensive tournament experience, will be a significant challenge.

The health of Notre Dame’s Olivia Miles could be a deciding factor, as her contributions will be crucial against a seasoned TCU squad.

Key Players to Watch

• Hannah Hidalgo (Notre Dame)
• Hailey Van Lith (TCU)
• Olivia Miles (Notre Dame)

Expert Predictions

• Andrea Adelson: TCU 79, Notre Dame 77
• Kendra Andrews: Notre Dame 82, TCU 78
• Katie Barnes: TCU 72, Notre Dame 69
• Charlie Creme: Notre Dame 81, TCU 72
• Kevin Pelton: Notre Dame 73, TCU 67
• Alexa Philippou: Notre Dame 73, TCU 70
• Michael Voepel: Notre Dame 77, TCU 71

Texas vs. Tennessee: Defense vs. Offense

Texas boasts one of the toughest defenses in the tournament, with standout players like Rori Harmon and Madison Booker. Tennessee, however, relies on their high-volume 3-point shooting to outpace opponents.

The rebounding battle will be crucial, with Texas holding a significant advantage in their previous meeting.

Key Players to Watch

• Rori Harmon (Texas)
• Madison Booker (Texas)
• Taylor Jones (Texas)

Expert Predictions

• Andrea Adelson: Tennessee 77, Texas 76
• Kendra Andrews: Texas 70, Tennessee 63
• Katie Barnes: Texas 68, Tennessee 60
• Charlie Creme: Texas 75, Tennessee 70
• Kevin Pelton: Texas 81, Tennessee 69
• Alexa Philippou: Texas 78, Tennessee 72
• Michael Voepel: Texas 66, Tennessee 62

UConn vs. Oklahoma: Offensive Firepower vs. Defensive Tenacity

UConn’s trio of Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd, and Sarah Strong has been dominant, contributing significantly to their impressive tournament run.

Oklahoma, with their fast-paced offense and efficient scoring, will need to protect the ball against UConn’s aggressive defense. Raegan Beers will be a key player for Oklahoma, especially against UConn’s frontcourt.

Key Players to Watch

• Paige Bueckers (UConn)
• Azzi Fudd (UConn)
• Raegan Beers (Oklahoma)

Expert Predictions

• Andrea Adelson: UConn 88, Oklahoma 60
• Kendra Andrews: UConn 82, Oklahoma 65
• Katie Barnes: UConn 85, Oklahoma 62
• Charlie Creme: UConn 90, Oklahoma 68
• Kevin Pelton: UConn 84, Oklahoma 70
• Alexa Philippou: UConn 80, Oklahoma 62
• Michael Voepel: UConn 91, Oklahoma 82

USC vs. Kansas State: Overcoming Adversity

USC faces a tough challenge without their star player JuJu Watkins. Kiki Iriafen and the rest of the team will need to step up to fill the void.

Kansas State, with Ayoka Lee back in the lineup, poses a significant threat. The Wildcats’ efficient offense and strong 3-point shooting could be the deciding factors in this matchup.

Key Players to Watch

• Kiki Iriafen (USC)
• Ayoka Lee (Kansas State)
• Temira Poindexter (Kansas State)

Expert Predictions

• Andrea Adelson: USC 61, Kansas State 60
• Kendra Andrews: USC 65, Kansas State 61
• Katie Barnes: USC 62, Kansas State 59
• Charlie Creme: USC 68, Kansas State 65
• Kevin Pelton: USC 68, Kansas State 67
• Alexa Philippou: Kansas State 62, USC 55
• Michael Voepel: Kansas State 70, USC 67

You can find a detailed breakdown of each game and expert predictions by visiting ESPN’s full article.