Women's college basketball Power Rankings: Two teams rejoin the list - ESPN

ESPN

by Michael Voepel

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

UCLA women’s basketball is on the verge of a historic achievement in the Big Ten conference, with a potential perfect regular season title within reach after Sunday’s matchup against USC. The Bruins, currently ranked second in ESPN’s power rankings, hold a 27-1 record and are eyeing their first outright conference championship since 1999. This milestone would place them among an elite group of teams, including Maryland (2015), Purdue (1999), and Ohio State (1985). UCLA’s success has been driven by a strong team performance, highlighted by a 42-point, 22-rebound outing from center Lauren Betts in recent games. The program is also riding a 21-game winning streak, trailing only UConn’s 29-game streak this season. Meanwhile, top-ranked UConn continues to dominate with an undefeated 29-0 record, showcasing their dominance in women’s college basketball. The Huskies’ stellar performance includes guard Azzi Fudd averaging 17.9 points and shooting 49% this season. Their upcoming games against Georgetown and St. John’s will further solidify their position at the top of the rankings. South Carolina rounds out the top three with a 27-2 record, having secured their fifth consecutive share of the SEC regular-season title. The Gamecocks’ recent eight-game winning streak highlights their resilience, with standout performances from center Madina Okot and forward Joyce Edwards. Their clash with Missouri and road game against Kentucky will test their ability to maintain momentum heading into the post-season. The article also notes other key matchups, including Duke vs. North Carolina and Vanderbilt vs. Tennessee, which are set to close out regular-season play in major conferences. These contests add excitement to the final stretch of the season, offering fans a chance to see rivalries come alive. Overall, the power rankings reflect the competitive landscape of women’s college basketball, with top-tier teams like UCLA, UConn, and South Carolina leading the charge. Their performances not only highlight individual achievements but also showcase the league’s depth and talent. For sports enthusiasts, these matchups and rankings provide a glimpse into the season’s most compelling storylines, making this a must-watch time for women’s college basketball fans.

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/25/2026