UCLA Maintains Top Spot in NCAA Women’s Basketball Rankings
Even after suffering their first loss of the season on Thursday, UCLA has claimed the No. 1 overall seed in the initial top-16 reveal for the upcoming 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament.
Other No. 1 Seeds
Alongside UCLA, South Carolina, Texas, and Notre Dame have also earned the prestigious No. 1 seeds.
Top 16 Teams Announced
The NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Committee unveiled the list of the top 16 teams on Sunday via ESPN, providing fans with an early look at what the official bracket may shape up to be on Selection Sunday, which is set for March 16.
Strong SEC Participation
The Southeastern Conference (SEC) showcased its strength with two No. 1 seeds and a total of six teams making it into the top 16. These teams will have the honor of hosting first- and second-round games in the NCAA tournament.
Regional Breakdown of Top 16 Teams
Spokane A Region
UCLA, LSU, Duke, Tennessee
Birmingham A Region
South Carolina, NC State, TCU, Oklahoma
Birmingham B Region
Texas, UConn, North Carolina, Ohio State
Spokane B Region
Notre Dame, USC, Kansas State, Kentucky
Seedings Overview
USC, LSU, UConn, and NC State are positioned as the No. 2 seeds. Meanwhile, TCU, Duke, North Carolina, and Kansas State have earned the No. 3 seeds. Kentucky, Ohio State, Oklahoma, and Tennessee are designated as No. 4 seeds.
Notable Matchup
In an interesting twist, Notre Dame, despite their victory over Texas (80-70 in overtime on December 5), is ranked as the No. 4 overall seed behind the Longhorns.
Regional Sites Announcement
For the third consecutive year, the women’s tournament will take place across two regional sites, Birmingham, Alabama, and Spokane, Washington, instead of the traditional four locations.
Next Top-16 Reveal
Fans can look forward to the second top-16 reveal scheduled for February 26.
