The 68-team women’s NCAA tournament field is official. The First Four tips Wednesday and Thursday, the first round opens Friday, and the Final Four will be played in Phoenix on April 5. UConn arrives unbeaten at 34-0 and as defending champion, riding a 50-game winning streak. Below is the bracket organized by seed with a brief note on each team.
No. 1 seeds UConn Huskies — 34-0, defending national champions; balanced, elite two-way play led by Sarah Strong and Azzi Fudd. UCLA Bruins — 31-1, regular-season and tournament conference champs; Lauren Betts, Kiki Rice and Gianna Kneepkens fuel a versatile attack. Texas Longhorns — SEC tournament champions with depth and speed; Madison Booker and Rori Harmon anchor both ends of the floor. South Carolina Gamecocks — 31-3 and another SEC powerhouse; Joyce Edwards and the Johnsons provide the talent and experience of a perennial Final Four team.
No. 2 seeds Iowa Hawkeyes — Efficient, high-assist offense with frontcourt strength from Ava Heiden and Hannah Stuelke and Chazadi Wright at the point. LSU Tigers — Nation-leading scoring offense (approx. 94.5 PPG); MiLaysia Fulwiley, Mikaylah Williams and Flau'jae Johnson head a thunderous attack.
