Women’s March Madness bracket prep: Strengths, weaknesses for all 68 teams, outlooks and more

After 5 months of regular-season and convention match motion, we now have lastly reached one of the best stretch of the 12 months.

It’s March Insanity, and it’s setting as much as be yet one more eventful NCAA Match.

At 32-0, South Carolina looks as if the simple decide to make it to the championship sport, however we thought that final 12 months, too. Fellow No. 1 seeds — Iowa, USC, and Texas — will look to make deep runs to problem the Gamecocks.

Like yearly, accidents will play a significant function within the NCAA Match, and none might have a much bigger affect on a group than three-time ACC Participant of the Yr Elizabeth Kitley’s knee. Kitley injured her knee within the regular-season finale, and if she’s not at one hundred pc, the Hokies could possibly be on upset alert early within the match — even with the new play of Georgia Amoore.

All eyes – effectively, most eyes – can be on Caitlin Clark as she performs in her remaining match earlier than departing for the WNBA. The identical will be mentioned for Rickea Jackson and Cameron Brink, and presumably Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, amongst others. However the highlight may also be on the following era of stars, together with USC’s JuJu Watkins, Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo, South Carolina’s MiLaysia Fulwiley, Texas’ Madison Booker, Nebraska’s Natalie Potts, LSU’s Mikaylah Williams and extra.

Fill out your bracket. Arrange your casting units. Block off time in your calendar.

It’s time for March Insanity.

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Strengths: The place can we begin? From high to backside, South Carolina is loaded with expertise from Te-Hina Paopao — who introduced she’s going to return for her remaining season — to Raven Johnson, Bree Corridor, Kamilla Cardoso, Ashley Watkins, Chloe Kitts and freshman standout MiLaysia Fulwiley. There’s no answer to stopping the Gamecocks, who’re significantly spectacular contemplating this was going to be a “step-back 12 months” for them. That’s humorous, in hindsight.

Weaknesses: There isn’t a weak point. Daybreak Staley has her group able to play each single sport. The Gamecocks had solely 4 video games that they gained by single digits. The smallest margin of victory got here at LSU. South Carolina can be with out Kamilla Cardoso in its opening sport after being ejected within the SEC championship for combating, however in two video games with out Cardoso this season, the Gamecocks defeated Missouri 83-45 and UConn 83-65. The Gamecocks can be simply wonderful.

Outlook: It’s South Carolina vs. the world. Bear in mind when folks would wager on Tiger Woods or the sphere? That’s what you’re doing right here with South Carolina. Final season, it was knocked off by Iowa. The Gamecocks do not forget that effectively. This season, there’s no stopping them from attending to the title sport.

Workforce in 16 phrases: South Carolina has one loss since March 18, 2022. What else is there to say? Sheer dominance.

File: 32-0 (14-2 SEC)

Coach: Daybreak Staley; 5 FInal Fours, 2 titles

Participant to observe: MiLaysia Fulwiley

Strengths: When you will have the all-time main scorer in your group, it’s an apparent plus. What’s extra, Molly Davis, who leads all Iowa starters in field-goal proportion, prevented a significant damage within the season finale win towards Ohio State. Iowa has the nation’s greatest offense, averaging 92.7 factors per sport on the shoulders of Clark’s 32.3 common. Even when opponents can include Clark — or try to — Davis, Kate Martin and Gabbie Marshall have all proven the flexibility to persistently hit the surface shot.

Weaknesses: Clark is the star, and whereas Martin and Hannah Stuelke can chip in, the group goes so far as Clark will take it – which was to the title sport final season. However due to the tempo that the Hawkeyes play, they’re inclined on protection, particularly in transition. Opponents are averaging 71.8 factors per sport towards the Hawkeyes — 20.9 fewer than Iowa averages, in fact – which ranks within the backside Twelfth percentile. Iowa will win a shootout, however the alternative is there to try to go toe-to-toe with it.

Outlook: Faculty basketball has all the time had stars. Skylar Diggins, Maya Moore, Cheryl Miller, Brittney Griner and so forth. Caitlin Clark is the most recent phenom to come back alongside to deliver new eyes on the product, and rightfully so. Iowa can be a much bigger speaking level nationally than South Carolina — who, you already know, hasn’t misplaced a sport all season — with the expectations that it’ll play within the championship once more. Other than scoring solely 58 factors in a loss to Kansas State, Iowa sometimes pours in buckets even in losses. It’s laborious to see anybody slowing down the Hawkeyes, making them an amazing remaining weekend decide.

Workforce in 16 phrases: After shedding within the title sport final 12 months, can Caitlin Clark and Co. end her story?

File: 29-4

Coach: Lisa Bluder, two Candy 16s, one Elite Eight, one runner-up

Participant to observe: Caitlin Clark

Strengths: In highschool, JuJu Watkins had celebrities like The Sport and 2-Chainz attending her video games. Now, the phenom can have the world watching as she makes her NCAA Match debut. Watkins trails solely Caitlin Clark because the nation’s scoring chief, as she’s averaging 27.8 factors per sport. Is effectivity a priority? Yeah, however whenever you’re a strolling bucket, averaging probably the most shot makes an attempt per sport, you’ll be able to reside with lacking 49.4 p.c of them. USC goes as Watkins goes, however do not overlook contributions from junior Rayah Marshall and All-Pac-12 senior McKenzie Forbes — each robust complementary gamers.

Weaknesses: The fouls. It’s all the time the fouls. We noticed that when Watkins fouled out towards Arizona, and USC almost misplaced the sport. If the Trojans can keep disciplined and keep away from getting in foul hassle, then they shouldn’t have an issue within the match. Watkins is used to the intense lights, so don’t anticipate any primetime struggles there.

Outlook: USC gained eight of its final 9 video games of this eason, with its lone loss coming towards Utah in late February. Nevertheless it enters the match on a sizzling streak, and it survived a double-overtime problem from Arizona within the aforementioned sport that Watkins fouled out. Utah was the one group to have USC’s quantity — the Trojans misplaced twice by a mixed 26 factors — however of their different three losses, the common margin of defeat was simply 4.6 factors. Elite Eight — a minimum of — right here it comes.

Workforce in 16 phrases: USC misplaced only one sport in February (vs. Utah). Effectivity and defensive fouls stay a priority.

File: 26-5

Coach: Lindsay Gottlieb, one Closing 4

Participant to observe: JuJu Watkins

Strengths: When Texas wins, it wins. Its margin of victory per sport is 24.2 factors, which ranks third. Its dominant offense averages 112.8 factors per 100 possessions, led by freshman sensation Madison Booker. Amongst freshmen, Booker’s 28 PER was ninth-best within the nation. Whereas Booker paces the Texas’ scoring, Amina Muhammad and Taylor Jones every pull in 2.3 offensive boards per sport. It’s an enormous benefit for Texas, as its 41.8 p.c offensive rebound fee lends to the 57.4 total rebound fee, which ranks fifth nationally.

Weaknesses: The margin of victory is so massive for Texas, however its lossescame by a complete of 14 factors – together with the last-second shot by Lexy Keys that gave Oklahoma a one-point win on Feb. 28. Texas’ smallest margin of victory was a five-point win over Texas Tech. How will the Longhorns reply after they’re in a March Insanity slugfest?

Outlook: Texas is a No. 1 seed that ought to face little resistance in making it to the second weekend. However as soon as it will get to the Candy 16, will it be capable to pull out forward in these carefully contested video games and shoot extra 3s than normal? The expertise is there to make a deep run.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Texas is an elite group who too usually struggles to shut video games. Owns the offensive glass.

File: 30-4

Coach: Vic Schaefer, 4 Candy 16 appearances, three Elite 8 appearances, 2 Closing Fours, and a pair of Nationwide Runner-up finishes.

Participant to observe: Madison Booker

Strengths: Notre Dame is extra than simply Hannah Hidalgo, in fact, nevertheless it’ll go so far as she takes it. She has nice complementary gamers on offense in Sonia Citron and Maddy Westbeld, who create plenty of motion inside the Irish offense to unlock the open shooter. It’s simple to overlook that Notre Dame opened its season towards South Carolina and misplaced by 29 factors. It’s a distinct group now, and three of its different 5 losses got here by a median of 5.3 factors – with NC State and Syracuse being the opposite two massive losses. However that’s overlooking Notre Dame’s large victories, together with wins by 78, 58, 47, 54, 50 and 47 factors. Notre Dame is working sizzling getting into the match, profitable its final 5 video games by a median of 17.6 factors, holding its final 4 regular-season opponents to fewer than 60 factors apiece. The Irish look to suffocate on protection – high 97 percentile in STOCKs – and run opponents off the courtroom whereas nonetheless holding them in test defensively.

Weaknesses: Two massive considerations. The primary is the Irish’s capability — or lack thereof — to hit 3-pointers when wanted. They shot 33.5 p.c from 3 on the season, which is okay, however simply 20.6 p.c of their factors got here from 3. Solely 51 groups had fewer of their factors come from 3-pointers. The second is the stage for Hidalgo. We’ve seen her dominate all through the season, however how will she deal with the intense lights of March?

Outlook: The Irish are going to be a troublesome out, and when you will have Hidalgo, you will have a shot in each single sport. The Irish wish to play quick and incorporate plenty of actions inside their half-court units. If they will play at their tempo and get opponents to play into their arms by forcing turnovers and accumulating these STOCKs, the Irish might make a visit to the Elite Eight.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Nice offensively, elite defensively. Notre Dame has a nonstop defensive motor led by freshman Hannah Hidalgo.

File: 26-6

Coach: Niele Ivey, two Candy 16s

Participant to observe: Hannah Hidalgo

Strengths: Annoying. That’s the primary phrase that involves thoughts in regards to the 79-77 loss to Oregon State off of a game-winning 3. If not for that, UCLA would have closed its season on an eight-game profitable streak. Nonetheless, it’s one of many deepers groups within the nation, and one of many youngest, which is frightening for future opponents. Senior Charisma Osborne is the Bruins’ motor, however the sophomore trio of Kiki Rice, Londynn Jones and Lauren Betts will decide how far UCLA goes within the match. Rice, specifically, has been in her bag of late, scoring 41 mixed factors within the Bruins’ final three regular-season video games.

Weaknesses: Will inexperience harm UCLA? Its final Elite Eight look was in 2018. Exterior of Osborne, Camryn Brown is the one different senior on the roster. When you’ve got no considerations in regards to the Bruins’ youth issue, you shouldn’t have considerations about them in any respect.

Outlook: UCLA doesn’t simply rating, it performs laborious on the glass, too. It has the nation’s high rebound fee and averages the Eleventh-most rebounds per sport (43.2). Different groups might have extra elite pairings than UCLA, however few are deeper and extra in unison. Betts’ dominant inside play opens up the pictures for Jones and Osborne from deep and for Rice to drive to the lane as we’ve grow to be accustomed to. UCLA is a Closing 4 favourite.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Bruins gained their final 5 video games of the season by a median margin of 21.2 factors.

File: 25-6

Coach: Cori Shut, 4 Candy 16s, one Elite Eight

Participant to observe: Lauren Betts

Strengths: Ohio State bookended its season with losses to USC and Iowa, however the Buckeyes went 22-2 between these losses. Nancy Lieberman Award finalist Jacy Sheldon leads the Buckeyes’ cost, however she’s removed from alone. Ohio State rolled out the identical beginning 5 in 27 of 28 video games, and the unit isn’t simply efficient from everywhere in the courtroom but additionally environment friendly. Even in its season-finale loss to Iowa, Ohio State made 14 3s.

Weaknesses: Ohio State rating within the backside quarter of the nation in offensive rebounding. Although they restrict offense boards, they fail to capitalize on potential second-chance factors. It’s a really minor blip from a standout group.

Outlook: South Carolina is the clear favourite within the match — and rightfully so — but when it have been upset, it’s laborious to not decide Ohio State as a possible champion. Even in its 4 losses, the most important deficit was 10 factors — not counting its loss to Maryland within the Massive Ten match – because it performed all of its high-level opponents shut all through the season in wins and losses. Ohio State is a Closing 4 group. Full cease.

Workforce in 16 phrases: The Buckeyes misplaced only one regular-season sport in 2024, dropping the season finale at Iowa Metropolis.

File: 25-5

Coach: Kevin McGuff, three Candy 16s, two Elite Eights

Participant to observe: Jacy Sheldon

Strengths: All-American Cameron Brink is a reasonably good begin, wouldn’t you say? Brink not too long ago introduced she’ll enter the WNBA Draft, the place she’s anticipated to be the No. 2 decide. Stanford would be the final Pac-12 champion (pour one out, folx) and can be in a great place to make one remaining run because the convention champ. Brink and Kiki Iriafen are considered one of solely two pairs of faculty teammates to common a double-double this season — LSU’s Angel Reese and Aneesah Morrow are the others — giving the Cardinal a one-two combo that few can deal with.

Weaknesses: Stanford performs at a reasonably sluggish tempo — 68.7 possessions per 40 minutes — that makes me curious the way it will react when it must play to its opponent’s tempo as an alternative. Look, it’s nit-picking, however discovering a weak point is difficult in the case of elite groups. And make no mistake about it: Stanford is elite.

Outlook: Brink and Iriafen have large chemistry as a top-five duo in school hoops – and that may be promoting them brief. Stanford is amongst a handful of groups exterior of South Carolina with a critical shot at profitable the title.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Stanford exceeded preseason expectations by profitable the Pac-12 common season behind Cameron Brink and Kiki Iriafen.

File: 28-5

Coach: Tara VanDerveer, six Candy 16s, six Elite Eights, eight Closing Fours, two runner-ups, three championships

Participant to observe: Cameron Brink

Strengths: The largest plus is that Raegan Beers is again, and basketball followers in every single place get to rejoice. The Beavers misplaced three of the 4 video games Beers missed, so her return as Oregon State’s main scorer and rebounder is much-needed. The sophomore is considered one of 28 gamers averaging a double-double, and he or she’s considered one of solely 5 sophomores to perform that feat.

Weaknesses: Oregon State struggles in just a few areas, most notably rating 355 out of 360 in steals per sport (4.6). It additionally ranks within the fifteenth percentile in offensive rebounds per sport and performs at an especially sluggish tempo of 67.6.

Outlook: Exterior of these areas, the massive concern with Oregon State is lack of expertise. It hasn’t made the match since 2021, and the final time it superior to the second weekend was in 2019. The Beavers have 5 juniors and nil seniors. Oregon State has performed everybody robust – its largest loss was by 11 factors to UCLA – so it shouldn’t be a simple opponent, per se, however a Candy 16 look might be the ceiling this 12 months. And that’s OK because it builds to 2024-2025.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Lethal from the surface (36.7 p.c). Returning Raegan Beers (nostril) is big for the Beavers’ probabilities.

File: 24-7

Coach: Scott Rueck, two Candy 16s, one Elite Eight, one Closing 4

Participant to observe: Raegan Beers

Strengths: Between shedding its opener to Colorado and the early-season absence of Angel Reese, it regarded prefer it was going to be a championship hangover in Baton Rouge. As a substitute, the Tigers went on to lose simply three extra video games the remainder of the season and confirmed the identical dominance they’d in 2022-2023. Reese, the SEC Participant of the Yr, led the cost with 19.1 factors and 13 boards, and Aneesah Morrow additionally averaged a double-double (16.7 factors, 10 rebounds), making them considered one of two duos within the nation to common a double-double. LSU averaged the second-most factors per sport and performs at an especially quick tempo. It’s an absolute menace on the boards — particularly offensively — main the nation in offensive rebound fee.

Weaknesses: There aren’t any massive weaknesses. It prefers to assault inside out, which is sensible given the Reese’s presence down low. It’s middle-of-the-road in 3-point proportion, nevertheless it tried the 315th fewest 3s within the nation. LSU’s tempo and talent to get to the charity stripe at a better fee than every other group is the recipe to success, so if opponents can get it out of its zone and right into a shootout, that would current a problem.

Outlook: LSU has the makings to go on a deep run once more, particularly with its sizzling near the season. It was a sluggish begin for the Tigers, and it was an particularly sluggish begin for Louisville switch Hailey Van Lith. She has been an vital a part of LSU’s run since February, as she didn’t hit double-digits scoring simply twice, and set her two highest-scoring outputs throughout that stretch. If LSU retains getting the high-level contributions from Van Lith and and Flau’Jae Johnson to enrich Reese and Morrow, LSU could possibly be Closing 4 sure once more.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Misplaced its opener, however then did LSU issues. Misplaced different three video games by 15 complete factors.

File: 28-5

Coach: Kim Mulkey, 5 Candy 16s, six Elite Eights, one Closing 4, 4 championships

Participant to observe: Angel Reese

Strengths: When Paige Bueckers did her greatest Jordan Belfort “I’m not going anyplace” announcement on senior night time, saying she’s returning to UConn subsequent 12 months, you understood her mission as a result of UConn is so near being the UConn of previous. Bueckers appears to be like just like the model of herself that we noticed in 2020-2021, averaging 21 factors and three.7 assists per sport. Her 39.7 PER is eighth within the nation, nevertheless it’s removed from a one-person present. Senior Aaliyah Edwards, 34.2 PER, is averaging a close to double-double on the 12 months with 17.7 factors and 9.4 boards. They make up a harmful one-two punch can be removed from a simple out within the match.

Weaknesses: The largest query I’ve is the depth past Bueckers and Edwards. UConn was bitten by the damage bug once more this 12 months, as Azzi Fudd performed simply two video games earlier than her ACL tear, and Aubrey Griffin tore hers simply 13 video games into the season. What’s extra, Caroline Ducharme performed solely 4 video games for the Huskies, as she wished to place her full deal with getting wholesome from her earlier accidents.

Outlook: UConn’s losses have been ugly, dropping 5 video games by a median of 13.4 factors. What’s extra, these losses got here towards heavy hitters who it could have to beat to make it to the Closing 4. South Carolina, Notre Dame, Texas, UCLA and NC State all dealt with UConn pretty simply. Although it’s enjoying otherwise now — a group that has discovered to play with out Fudd and Griffin — it’s nonetheless a tall activity. UConn ought to get to the Candy 16 pretty simply, however a visit to the Elite Eight appears out of attain.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Harm-riddled group who completed convention play undefeated. Who can decelerate Paige Bueckers and Aaliyah Edwards?

File: 29-5

Coach: Geno Auriemma, three Candy 16, 5 Elite Eights, 10 Closing Fours, one runner-up, 11 championships

Participant to observe: Paige Bueckers

Strengths: If there’s a rebound available, NC State goes to get it. The Wolfpack have 4 gamers averaging a minimum of 6.4 boards per sport. NC State dominates the competitors on the glass in the case of defensive rebounds. It ranks third nationally with 31.5 defensive rebounds per sport and tenth in total boards (43.3 per). NC State misplaced the rebounding battle simply six instances this season — Rhode Island, Virginia Tech (twice), Notre Dame, UNC and Syracuse – and three of these ended up being losses.

Weaknesses: We all know they’ll win the battle of the boards, however the Wolfpack struggles in two different key areas: steals and assisted shot fee. They don’t flip the ball over, which is nice, however they rank within the thirty first percentile in each steals per sport (6.8) and assisted shot fee (51 p.c). NC State has 5 gamers who’re averaging double figures in factors, however exterior of Saniya Rivers (4.1) and Zoe Brooks (3.5), they don’t have any handlers who distribute often.

Outlook: The Wolfpack are two years faraway from an Elite Eight look and may make a deep run once more this 12 months — a minimum of to the second weekend. The current losses to UNC and Duke are clouding the judgment a bit, so it’s an ideal alternative to make the most of the recency bias round NC State.

Workforce in 16 phrases:Dominant on the boards and at dwelling, shedding only one sport at Reynolds Coliseum (Virginia Tech).

File: 27-6

Coach: Wes Moore, three Candy 16s, one Elite Eight

Participant to observe: Saniya Rivers

Strengths: The Hoosiers confirmed out offensively this season, averaging 112.2 factors per 100 possessions. They ranked second nationally in efficient area aim proportion (58.8), factors per scoring try (1.22) and factors per play (1.01). That comes largely to their elite 3-point capturing, which ranked first at 40.5 p.c. Sara Scalia, Chloe Moore-McNeil and Yarden Garzon every shot 40 p.c or higher from behind the arc through the common season, and that’s not even discussing the dominance that Mackenzie Holmes confirmed on the inside — each offensively and defensively.

Weaknesses: Although Holmes averaged 1.5 blocks per sport, Indiana struggled breaking apart the passing lanes, averaging 6.4 steals per sport. That put it 279th within the metric. Indiana additionally dealt with enterprise on the defensive boards, however offensively, it was unhealthy. Like, actually unhealthy. Like, 350th out of 360 groups unhealthy. If Holmes isn’t totally wholesome after injuring her knee within the remaining regular-season sport, Indiana could possibly be in hassle on the glass.

Outlook: Indiana has an elite offense, making it one of many few groups that may sustain with Iowa. Indiana defeated Iowa 86-69 in late February and is unmatched from behind the arc. The Hoosiers are a second-weekend group, but when Holmes’ damage lingers, a dominant rebounding group might ship them packing sooner than anticipated. If Holmes is wholesome, that is an Elite Eight group.

Workforce in 16 phrases:The Indiana Hoosiers completed off with their highest offensive ranking (112.6) within the group’s trendy period.

File: 24-5

Coach: Teri Moren, one Candy 16, one Elite Eight

Participant to observe: Mackenzie Holmes

Strengths: Kansas State’s athletic communication’s director posted on X: Amongst lively NCAA Division I girls’s basketball gamers, Ayoka Lee is the one participant with 300-plus profession blocks and 100-plus profession steals. That tracks, as Lee is on the short-list for first-team All-American. Lee isn’t solely a defensive menace, however she’s a bucket, too, averaging 19.8 factors and eight.3 boards per sport. It’s Kansas State’s group protection that stands out, permitting 57 factors per sport —- 15.7 fewer than it averages offensively.

Weaknesses: The primary concern with Kansas State is the draw. Three of its six losses got here when Lee was out with an ankle damage. That routinely bumps down the Wildcats’ seeding, giving them a so-so draw resulting in the second weekend. Even in these losses, the Wildcats have been in each single sport. The biggest losses (by 7 factors every) have been towards Iowa and Texas. They’re nice on the defensive boards, however shedding out on potential offensive rebounds might price them in shut matchups.

Outlook: Lee is wholesome, and although she’s but to say if she’s returning to Kansas State for yet another season, you’ll be able to anticipate these to be grind-them-out video games with its middle-of-the-road tempo of play. A Candy 16 look is feasible however removed from a assure.

Workforce in 16 phrases:Elite defensive group whose largest loss this 12 months was seven factors (versus Iowa and towards Texas).

File: 25-7

Coach: Jeff Mittie

Participant to observe: Ayoka Lee

Strengths: Can we give Georgia Amoore her flowers, please? The expansion she’s taken in Yr 4 is spectacular. Amoore has improved in almost each metric, elevating her PER to 26.3 and assists per sport to 7.3 – the latter placing her behind solely Caitlin Clark and Rori Harmon. The one-two punch of Amoore and three-time ACC Participant of the Yr Elizabeth Kitley was robust for defenses to cease, because it averaged 110.9 factors per 100 possessions. The Hokies are an elite assist-to-turnover group, and a drive down low.

Weaknesses: It’s not a minus, however only a bummer. That’s the damage that Kitley suffered on the ultimate day of the common season. As nice as Amoore is, Kitley’s damage impacts Virginia Tech in so some ways. She is vital down low, averaging 2.1 blocks per sport – tied for Thirteenth within the nation. With out Kitley’s inside presence at one hundred pc, the Hokies will be had within the paint.

Outlook: Kitley’s well being will affect how far the Hokies can go. Coming off final season’s Closing 4 look, a totally wholesome squad making one other deep run isn’t out of the query.

Workforce in 16 phrases: The star-led Hokies gained the ACC, however had a tough final week shedding to Notre Dame.

File: 24-7

Coach: Kenny Brooks, one Closing 4

Participant to observe: Georgia Amoore

Strengths: Whilst an offensive juggernaut, the Bulldogs play at a sluggish tempo of 68.4 possessions per 40 minutes. That doesn’t harm their effectivity or the effectiveness, although. They rank high 4 in factors per play, factors per scoring makes an attempt, efficient area aim proportion and 3-point proportion. All 5 starters common double figures in scoring, and Yvonne Ejim and Eliza Hollingsworth pull down 8.3 and seven.1 boards per sport, respectively, main Gonzaga, which has the nation’s sixth-best rebound fee.

Weaknesses: So we’ve highlighted Gonzaga’s elite offensive ranking, however plenty of it’s due to the opponents it confronted. Gonzaga final misplaced on Nov. 27 to Louisville, and its energy of schedule was No. 72. Sure, it defeated Stanford as a marquee victory in early December — by 18 factors, at that — however for the reason that calendar turned, the closest sport it performed in was a 13-point win towards Pacific. The adjustment to enjoying elite groups all through the match could also be a problem.

Outlook: You may solely play who’s on the schedule, however seeing Gonzaga make it to the Candy 16 is a stretch. Sure, it’s elite offensively, however can it keep the effectivity on the sluggish tempo it needs to play at towards heavy hitters? There are doubts, and we noticed these come up towards Portland in its convention match.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Undefeated since Nov. 27, however energy of schedule ranked No. 72. No. 1 in offensive ranking.

File: 30-3

Coach: Lisa Fortier, one Candy 16

Participant to observe: Yvonne Ejim

Strengths: Oklahoma excels on the boards and by distributing the ball. The Sooners rank second in assists per sport (20.6) and first in assisted shot fee (71 p.c). Payton Verhulst (4) and Nevaeh Tot (4.5) lead Oklahoma within the class. On the boards, Skylar Vann leads the cost, knocking down 7.2 per sport to go together with her team-high 15 factors per contest. The 43.8 rebounds as a group ranks eighth in basketball.

Weaknesses: The place Oklahoma will get in hassle is popping over the ball and committing fouls. The Sooners averaged 17.9 foul and dedicated 16.7 turnovers per sport. Given the excessive tempo that Oklahoma performs at (77.9), it results in a ton of alternatives for its opponents, too. The Oklahoma protection ranks within the sixth percentile in area targets tried and twenty first percentile in fouls dedicated.

Outlook: Lexy Keys hit a shot on the buzzer to take down Texas in thrilling vogue, however Oklahoma was unable to construct off that victory, shedding to Kansas within the season finale. That’s been a recurring theme for Oklahoma. It earns an enormous victory, solely to comply with it up with a letdown. We noticed how Oklahoma struggled earlier within the season, shedding 5 of six video games from Thanksgiving to Christmas, nevertheless it bounced again properly within the second half of the 12 months. Given its up-and-down patterns, Oklahoma could possibly be on upset alert within the first spherical or the Spherical of 32.

Workforce in 16 phrases:Massive second half of the season with an exciting win over Texas earlier than falling to Kansas.

File: 22-9

Coach: Jennie Baranczyk

Participant to observe: Skylar Vann

Strengths: Colorado performed a steadiness sport all season, earlier than its protection was picked aside down the stretch. The Buffaloes are an especially unselfish group. They restrict turnovers and have lively arms defensively, averaging 10 steals per sport. Kindyll Wetta performs an enormous function off of the bench, averaging 4 assists and 1.8 steals per sport.

Weaknesses: Colorado’s protection collapsed through the remaining month of the season. It permits 72, 76, 77 and 87 factors in losses to convention rivals. Opponents are averaging 1.01 factors per scoring try towards Colorado, placing it within the lower-third of the nation within the metric. If the protection doesn’t present up, overlook a couple of deep run.

Outlook: Although Baylor performed a few of its greatest basketball down the stretch, the identical can’t be mentioned for Colorado, which misplaced 5 of its final six video games. It regarded poised to make a deep match run, however its February play raised main crimson flags — particularly defensively. Based mostly on expertise alone, the Buffs ought to get to the second weekend, however it might hardly be a shock in the event that they’re upset within the Spherical of 32.

Workforce in 16 phrases:Colorado struggled down the stretch of the common season, shedding 5 of its final six video games.

File: 22-9

Coach: JR Payne, one Candy 16

Participant to observe: Aaronette Vonleh

Strengths: Baylor is driving sizzling into the match, closing out the common season on a five-game profitable streak. It began the 12 months 14-0, however given the competitors, the streak to shut the season is way more spectacular. It defeated Texas Tech, Cincinnati, and Oklahoma State by 29, 21, and 22 factors, respectively. Baylor is extraordinarily unselfish offensively, rating eighth within the nation in assists per sport with 19.1. Eight gamers common a minimum of quarter-hour per sport for Baylor, and solely three of them common fewer than two assists per sport.

Weaknesses: With these assists, although, come turnovers. The Bears common 16.2 turnovers per sport, and their 469 turnovers on the season are the 247th most nationally. Their inside protection is a tender spot, too, as Baylor averages 2.5 blocks per sport.

Outlook: Baylor, by design, forces opponents inside, permitting 1,175 2-point makes an attempt this season — rating within the twenty second percentile. However that’s as a result of its 3-point protection has been so efficient. Baylor ranks third nationally in opponent’s 3-point proportion (25.5), and that could possibly be massive for it come match time. Baylor is driving sizzling, and if it will possibly hold that momentum going, it might pull off an upset and advance to the second weekend.

Workforce in 16 phrases:Unselfish group, with a 67.4 p.c assisted shot fee. Enjoying their greatest ball down the stretch.

File: 24-7

Coach: Nicki Collen

Participant to observe: Sarah Andrews/p>

Strengths: Get up. Alyssa Pili and the Utes are enjoying. Pili is such a pleasure to observe, as her PER is available in forward of Paige Bueckers, Rori Harmon and Mackenzie Holmes. She’s integral to Utah’s success, main it to 110.3 factors per possession. Maintaining its success from deep regardless of shedding Gianna Kneepkens to season-ending foot surgical procedure six video games into the season has been encouraging. Kneepkens shot 42.3 p.c from behind the arc final season, and regardless of her absence, Utah has made the fourth-most 3-pointers this season, capturing an environment friendly 36.1 p.c.

Weaknesses: Utah had a brutal schedule, which was ranked twentieth hardest. The Utes suffered some massive losses towards big-time opponents. UCLA defeated Utah by 30, whereas Oregon State and Washington gained by 25 and 15, respectively. There have been some key wins (towards USC twice and UCLA), and Utah additionally misplaced to South Carolina by solely 9 factors.

Outlook: The robust schedule clearly will proceed within the match, however the Utes are a sneaky group who might make the Candy 16 as a decrease seed. Pili has continued to evolve her sport, and the All-Pac-12 star goes to shine. Observe them as a sleeper group to make it to the second weekend.

Workforce in 16 phrases:Robust schedule for Utah. 5 of its 9 losses have been by double-digits — together with a 30-point loss.

File: 22-10

Coach: Lynne Roberts, one Candy 16

Participant to observe: Alyssa Pili/p>

Strengths: The place have been you when Nebraska knocked off Caitlin Clark and Iowa on ESPN? It was an enormous second for the Huskers — and a much bigger second for Jaz Shelley, who dropped 23 factors on then-No. 2 Iowa together with her household visiting from Australia.

Weaknesses: However actuality set again in, and that has been the case too usually for Nebraska. Following the win over Iowa, Ohio State defeated the Cornhuskers by 33 factors within the subsequent sport. It was a season-long development for Nebraska, which hoped to seek out consistency however couldn’t put stretches collectively. There was a 47-point win over Alcorn, adopted by a 5-point loss to Creighton. A 25-point win adopted by a 17-point loss. A 12-point victory adopted by a 22-point loss. And so forth and so forth.

Outlook: Nebraska can get the massive win, however can it get a number of massive wins inside the similar weekend? That’s the hesitancy in selecting it to make it past the primary weekend. The opposition doesn’t have to fret about pressured turnovers, as Nebraska ranks within the twenty seventh percentile in steals per sport and the sixth percentile in blocks per sport. The Huskers are enjoyable to observe, however if you wish to see them within the match, you higher be certain that to catch them within the Spherical of 64.

Workforce in 16 phrases:Up-and-down season, with massive wins (Iowa, Michigan State) and large losses (4 by a minimum of 17 factors).

File: 22-11

Coach: Amy Williams

Participant to observe: Jaz Shelley

Strengths: Exterior of sophomore Nyla Harris, seniors and graduates primarily have been the Cardinals’ starters. Even after shedding Hailey Van Lith to LSU, Louisville has fulfilled preseason predictions. The Cardinals clear up on the offensive glass, touchdown within the 94th percentile for offensive rebounds per sport. Harris leads the way in which with three offensive boards – making her considered one of 16 sophomores averaging three or extra per sport within the nation. They’re environment friendly from the sphere, too, as their 50 p.c 2-point fee brings them to an total 45.6 area aim proportion – good for twenty ninth nationally. James Madison switch Kiki Jefferson has stuffed a void for the Cardinals with a team-high 118.5 offensive ranking.

Weaknesses: It’s the 2-point capturing that carries the Cardinals, as they battle from behind the arc. They shot 32.4 p.c through the common season, however they ranked No. 328 in 3-point fee. That’s an space they’ll want to enhance on within the match, however their true weak point is inside protection. Louisville had 50 blocks on the 12 months – solely 28 groups had fewer – and dedicated 548 fouls leading to 488 journeys to the charity stripe for the opposition.

Outlook: Louisville limped out of the common season, swapping wins and losses each different sport all through February. There’s no sense ofof momentum heading into the Massive Dance. We’ve seen the Cardinals get sizzling on the proper time and put collectively spectacular victories – wins over Notre Dame, Syracuse and Duke come to thoughts. But when they run into an opponent that makes it a degree to assault the inside of the protection, the Cardinals could possibly be out early.

Workforce in 16 phrases:Veteran-led group who has held observe all season. Can they overcome their struggles behind the arc?

File: 24-9

Coach: Jeff Walz, 4 Candy 16s, 4 Elite Eights, two Closing Fours, two Runner-Ups

Participant to observe: Kiki Jefferson

Strengths: The eyes have been on Caitlin Clark and her pursuit – and achievement – of the all-time scoring report, however don’t overlook what Honest has completed for Syracuse. She handed Brittney Griner for No. 5 on the all-time listing. The Orange did an amazing job on the offensive glass, maintaining the possessions alive for Honest and Co. Kyra Wooden (91) and Alyssa Latham (89) have been particularly massive there, serving to ‘Cuse to the sixth-most offensive rebounds within the nation. Pair that with the highest 90 p.c STOCK fee, and it does simply sufficient on each side of the ball.

Weaknesses: Tempo. That’s the obtrusive weak point for Syracuse, because it ranked No. 112 in group tempo through the common season. With the sluggish tempo, the Orange common solely 71.9 possessions per 40 minutes, so the goal could be extra involvement total inside the offense. However Syracuse is within the backside tenth percentile in assisted shot fee (46.4 p.c).

Outlook: The Orange will go so far as Honest and Georgia Woolley take them, however even the latter wants extra involvement within the offense. Syracuse took care of opponents they wanted to beat within the ACC, however when the Orange misplaced, they misplaced massive. 4 of their six losses have been by a minimum of 12 factors, and all six common season losses got here to tournament-bound groups. Syracuse might want to management the boards and money in on the second-chance alternatives if it hopes to advance to the second weekend.

Workforce in 16 phrases:Syracuse completed with its highest convention profitable proportion (68.4 p.c) since 2015-2016 (78.9 p.c).

File: 23-7

Coach: Felisha Legette-Jack, one Candy 16

Participant to observe: Dyaisha Honest

Strengths: Rickea Jackson is an offensive drive, coming again post-injury trying just like the model of her we anticipated to see all season. She’s going to be a Day 1 contributor within the WNBA. However earlier than the draft, Jackson hopes to steer the Woman Vols again to the Candy 16. It’ll be a troublesome path for Tennessee, however that’s been the story of their season. Offensively, Tennessee will get the job completed, enjoying at a great tempo and averaging 75.8 factors per sport.

Weaknesses: Tennessee’s struggles fall into just a few buckets. First, its protection gave up 70.1 factors per sport through the common season, which flows into Tennessee’s incapacity to generate STOCKs. Its steal fee within the second percentile, and its block fee within the twenty sixth. The opposite bucket is that Tennessee had the nation’s hardest schedule. Its opponents’ win proportion was 67.3 p.c. The Woman Vols misplaced to Indiana, Notre Dame, Ohio State, LSU and twice towards South Carolina. Although, in case you imagine in ethical victories, the losses to South Carolina have been by a mixed 19 factors.

Outlook: Based mostly on expertise, Tennessee can get to the second weekend. Nevertheless it’s going to want every little thing to click on defensively to decelerate the highest seed in its bracket. The Woman Vols got here inside a miracle shot of being the primary group to take down South Carolina within the SEC match semifinals.

Workforce in 16 phrases:Vols confronted the toughest schedule of any group this season. Opponents’ win proportion was 67.3 p.c.

File: 19-12

Coach: Kellie Harper, three Candy 16s

Participant to observe: Rickea Jackson

Strengths: Ole Miss regarded completely dominant, profitable its remaining six video games of the common season and taking its final 4 by vital margins of victory. They beat Georgia, Missouri, Kentucky, and Arkansas — not precisely No. 1 seeds — however momentum is momentum. Ole Miss is nice on the glass and at thwarting pictures near the rim. The Rebels had 5 gamers common 4.8 or extra rebounds per sport, led by Madison Scott’s 6.1, they usually have been fifteenth nationally in rebounds per sport (42). Their 6.2 blocks per sport have been the second-highest mark this season, led by Rita Igbokwe’s 1.8 per contest.

Weaknesses: Ole Miss suffered an enormous blow early when switch KK Deans went down with a knee damage, forcing her to overlook the remainder of the season. Deans missed half of the season with a knee damage through the 2021-2022 season when she was with West Virginia. The damage to Deans pressured the Rebels to go together with a much bigger lineup, with Kennedy Todd-Williams serving as the one true guard in its beginning lineup. It has allowed freshman Marija Avlijas to get some expertise, although.

Outlook: Ole Miss has the dimensions to manage the sport on the glass and down low, because it prefers to take an inside-out strategy offensively. It superior to the Candy 16 final season, however the path can be way more tough this 12 months, requiring an enormous second-round upset.

Workforce in 16 phrases:Ole Miss ended the season profitable by a median of 29.3 in its final 4 video games.

File: 23-8

Coach: Yolett McPhee-McCuin, one Candy 16

Participant to observe: Madison Scott

Strengths: If you wish to watch a veteran group with current success (2022 Elite Eight) that does the little issues proper (No. 1 within the nation in free-throw proportion and No. 5 in turnovers per sport), watch the Bluejays. They will rating, too, as Lauren Jensen, Emma Ronsiek and Morgan Maly lead the offensive cost with 17.2, 17.5 and 14.8 factors per sport, respectively.

Weaknesses: Creighton was in a position to beat up on inferior competitors, however when it confronted a strong opponent — UConn, Marquette and even Inexperienced Bay — it misplaced. It performs at such a sluggish tempo that, whereas environment friendly, it will possibly accept too many pressured 3s.

Outlook: Fundamentals can get you far, and being cool, calm and picked up will assist Creighton. Nevertheless it has first weekend upset written throughout it. Proceed with warning.

Workforce in 16 phrases:A senior-heavy group that doesn’t flip the ball over (11.1 per sport, to rank fifth nationally).

File: 25-5

Coach: Jim Flanery, one Elite Eight

Participant to observe: Emma Ronsiek

Strengths: It’s a celebration, it’s a celebration, it’s a celebration. A block social gathering, that’s, because the Blue Devils swatt away every little thing that comes at them on the rim. Their six blocks per sport rank third nationally, and Duke pairs that with a protection that enables 57.9 factors per sport. Yeah, that’ll do it. Kennedy Brown, Jadyn Donovan and Camilla Emsbo every common greater than a block per sport, and three gamers rank inside the highest 121 in defensive win shares.

Weaknesses: Although Duke is robust defensively, it struggles mightily on offense. It failed to attain greater than 60 factors on 5 totally different events, and it went 11-7 in convention play. It managed to maintain shut in losses to Stanford (extra time), Miami, Virginia Tech, Notre Dame and North Carolina, however all of these have been due partly to its protection. The protection can bend however not break solely a lot within the match.

Outlook: The draw and seeding are going to make it robust for Duke to go deep within the match exterior of an enormous upset. Is it potential? Sure, in fact, however Duke might want to decelerate the tempo and depend on its elite protection for each minute to make a run to the Candy 16 or past.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Duke’s nice protection covers for common offense. Didn’t eclipse 60 factors six instances this 12 months.

File: 20-11

Coach: Kara Lawson

Participant to observe: Jadyn Donovan

Strengths: Iowa State is a enjoyable group. Effectively, in case you like high-scoring affairs with groups draining pictures from 3, it’s enjoyable. The Cyclones are within the eighty fifth percentile in tried 3s, in addition to the 94th percentile in made 3s. Pretty much as good as they’re from behind the arc, it could not even be the place they succeed most. That’s as a result of Audi Crooks cooks down low, averaging 18.3 factors and seven.7 boards. The boards are an enormous a part of the Cyclones’ success. They’re elite on the defensive glass, rating within the 99th percentile in defensive rebounds per sport and 98th percentile in complete rebound fee. Emily Ryan averages 6.3 assists per sport, which is the nation’s ninth-best mark.

Weaknesses: As enjoyable as Iowa State’s offense is, its protection struggles. It particularly struggles limiting opponents from behind the arc. Reside by the sword, proper? The Cyclones permit 68.1 factors per sport, however they rank No. 357 out of 360 groups in 3-point fee towards. Opponents have made 233 3s towards Iowa State. It allowed Texas Tech, West Virginia and Oklahoma to every make 13 3s towards it — all losses. In wins, Iowa State allowed double-digits in 3s 4 instances.

Outlook: Crooks was an unanimous selection for first-team All-Massive 12 and is without doubt one of the greatest gamers within the nation. However she will do solely a lot within the Spherical of 32 — assuming Iowa State advances out of the primary spherical — towards one of many high seeds within the match. Until groups run ice chilly from deep, Iowa State will battle.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Cyclones battle to include the opposition from 3. Additionally they reside and die behind the road.

File: 20-11

Coach: Invoice Fennelly, 4 Candy 16s, two Elite Eights

Participant to observe: Audi Crooks

Strengths: Deja Kelly, a first-team All-ACC member for the third straight 12 months, led the Tar Heels with 16.8 factors per sport. Although Carolina struggled down the stretch, the offense by no means slipped off of its tempo, ending with fewer than 60 factors simply twice. There’s nothing that Carolina does that may blow you away, nevertheless it’s strong throughout the board. Alyssa Ustby and Maria Gakdeng present inside defensive presences for the Tar Heels, evidenced by their Seventeenth-best block fee within the nation.

Weaknesses: UNC beat Duke previous to the ACC match, which was large given its late-season struggles. In these six losses since Jan. 28, the fewest variety of factors the Tar Heels allowed was 63. UNC has given up 61.9 factors per sport this season. Kelly and Ustby are unbelievable gamers, however they cannot do it on their very own.

Outlook: The ACC is wild, and it doesn’t appear to be it will likely be the Tar Heels’ 12 months. UNC made the Candy 16 in 2022, nevertheless it’s laborious to think about it getting previous the Spherical of 32.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Veteran-led group that struggled down the stretch, going 4-6 in its remaining 10 common season video games.

File: 19-12

Coach: Courtney Banghart

Participant to observe: Alyssa Ustby

Strengths: Few groups have the Mountaineers’ defensive prowess. They rank third within the nation in defensive ranking (77.9), and that’s thanks largely to Jordan Harrison and Ja’Naiya Quinerly. Every averages round 3 steals per sport, making them the one pair of teammates with common that top. The Mountaineers are within the one hundredth percentile in steals per sport, and the eightieth percentile in steals per sport. Shares on shares on shares. The aforementioned duo additionally lead West Virginia in scoring, with Quinerly placing up 19.4 factors per sport.

Weaknesses: It’s good that WVU is so lively on protection with blocking pictures and creating havoc within the passing lanes to drive turnovers, as a result of in the case of the battle of the boards, WVU struggles. And that’s placing it properly. It ranks No. 327 out of 360 groups in defensive rebounds per sport. In its six losses, opponents outrebounded WVU by a median of 40 to twenty-eight.3. 5 of these losses have been by 10 factors or fewer. A direct correlation? You will be the choose.

Outlook: West Virginia’s hard-nosed protection and Quinerly and Harrison making life depressing for opposing backcourts is the recipe for advancing. Its seed is deserved, however at greatest, it’ll face a Spherical of 32 exit.

Workforce in 16 phrases:Six losses are West Virginia’s fewest since 2013-2014 season. Protection drives the outcomes (78.5 defensive ranking).

File: 24-7

Coach: Mark Kellogg

Participant to observe: Jordan Harrison

Strengths: Kansas performs at a sluggish tempo of 69.4 possessions per 40 minutes. It is aware of what it does effectively and sticks to it. Kansas primarily makes use of a six-player rotation, with Skyler Gill getting a while, too. However 4 gamers log a minimum of 29.6 minutes per night time, with Taiyanna Jackson standing out, averaging a double-double.

Weaknesses: The sluggish place leaves Kansas inclined on protection, because it permits 63.7 factors on common, leaving a slight 4.4 optimistic margin on the scoreboard. Kansas recorded key victories this season – notably towards Iowa State, Nebraska and Baylor, however its incapacity to maintain up offensively was its downfall. Kansas misplaced three video games regardless of surrendering low totals of 63, 60 and 59 factors.

Outlook: Kansas must be thrilled to get out of the primary spherical, truthfully. A second-round date with USC would await, and the Jayhawks simply don’t have the offensive energy to go basket for basket.

Workforce in 16 phrases:Kansas performs at an especially sluggish tempo, however struggles to maintain up with its opponent offensively.

File: 19-12

Coach: Brandon Schneider

Participant to observe: Taiyanna Jackson

Strengths: The Crimson Tide have 4 totally different gamers with utilization charges at or above 21.1 p.c. The three veterans — Aaliyah Nye, Sarash Ashlee Barker and Jessica Timmons — cleared the path, however freshman Essence Cody has performed a gentle function, logging massive minutes down the stretch. Alabama doesn’t stand out in any vital approach, nevertheless it does every little thing fairly effectively.

Weaknesses: Alabama had eight losses, however seven of these have been by double digits, making its common margin of defeat 15.5 factors. The largest losses, predictably, got here towards South Carolina and twice towards LSU. You’d wish to see some extra assists total from ‘Bama, as solely Loyal McQueen averaged greater than 3 dimes per sport.

Outlook: Alabama has a troublesome street and a troublesome draw. It hasn’t made it out of the second spherical since 1998. Perhaps subsequent season will be the 12 months with Cody’s development, as a result of it’s not going to be this 12 months.

Workforce in 16 phrases:When the Crimson Tide misplaced, they misplaced massive time. Their common margin of defeat was 15.5.

File: 23-9

Coach: Kristy Curry, two Candy 16s, one Elite Eight, one runner-up

Participant to observe: Aaliyah Nye

Strengths: The Spartans make it rain from downtown. That a lot is certain. In coach Robyn Fralick’s first season, her Spartans are capturing 37.3 p.c from behind the arc, making the ninth-most 3s (270) through the common season. That’s why, regardless of a less-than-average protection, Michigan State is seemingly in each sport. Moira Joiner and DeeDee Hagemann are gunners from behind the arc, flattening their pictures at a 42.8 p.c and 40.6 p.c clip, respectively.

Weaknesses: Michigan State was in most of its video games, however within the three double-digit losses it had, it was torched defensively by Ohio State, Minnesota and Creighton. It’s not only a breakdown defensively, although, because it struggles to maintain the opposing offense off the glass. Opponents have averaged 8.7 offensive boards per sport towards the Spartans, which is the Sixteenth-highest mark.

Outlook: The Spartans possible can be one-and-done within the match, which continues to be thought-about a hit with a first-year coach. They confirmed they might dangle with robust groups — they misplaced to Iowa, Ohio State, Indiana and Nebraska by a complete of 17 factors — however reaching the second weekend appears unlikely.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Spartans enter March with fewest losses for the reason that 2010-2011 season. 5 gamers common double-figures in factors.

File: 22-8

Coach: Robyn Fralick

Participant to observe: Moira Joiner

Strengths: Princeton’s pushed by its protection, enjoying at a deliberate tempo for grind-them-out video games. The Tigers allowed simply 56 factors per sport, and towards Yale in February, they held the Bulldogs to simply 25 factors all the contest. Princeton makes use of a suffocating protection that forces opponents into unhealthy pictures and errors. Regardless of the sluggish tempo, it’s really opened up Kaitlyn Chen to raise her total sport — offensively and defensively.

Weaknesses: The tempo and the competitors come into play right here for Princeton. It doesn’t try a ton of 3s, which could possibly be an element when it’s trailing. Princeton is strong on offensive boards, nevertheless it pulls down solely 22.8 defensive boards per sport, rating 295th.

Outlook: Princeton can dangle with elite groups. It took UCLA to the buzzer and misplaced to Indiana by 9. The protection is hard, and the Tigers gained’t be a simple out for anybody.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Princeton confirmed it might hang around of convention with single-digit loss to UCLA. Extraordinarily slow-paced group.

File: 25-4

Coach: Carla Berube

Participant to observe: Ellie Mitchell

Strengths: Laila Phelia, a junior and first-team All-Massive Ten choice, constructed off final season’s particular person success, main the Wolverines with 16.3 factors per sport and a 25.2 utilization fee. The Wolverines ranked in the midst of nearly each key metric, and that was indicative of their up-and-down season, the place they went 9-9 in convention play.

Weaknesses: Of Michigan’s 12 losses, 10 have been by double-digits — three of them coming by 21 or extra factors. Phelia didn’t have plenty of assist offensively, with Lauren Hansen serving as the one different participant averaging double-digits.

Outlook: The Wolverines made it to the Elite Eight two seasons in the past — the primary profession journey for Kim Barnes Arico — however to get to the second weekend this season, they’ll want consecutive upsets. That’s rather a lot to placed on the shoulders of Phelia.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Michigan’s 61.3 profitable proportion was its lowest mark since 2015-2016 when it was at 60 p.c.

File: 20-13

Coach: Kim Barnes Arico, two Candy 16s, one Elite Eight

Participant to observe: Laila Phelia

Strengths: If Florida State goes to do one factor, it’s care for the ball. The Seminoles had the third-lowest turnover fee within the nation (13 p.c), and that’s with their fast-paced offense, averaging 77 possessions per 40 minutes. Florida State was fast to shoot all season, averaging the second-most area aim makes an attempt within the nation. Ta’Niya Latson led the offensive cost, averaging 21.4 factors per sport.

Weaknesses: Florida State’s protection struggled. It allowed probably the most factors per sport (72) of any ACC group. That turnstile mark put FSU within the nation’s backside Twelfth percentile. The Seminoles allowed 90 or extra factors 5 totally different instances this season — 4 of them in losses save for his or her 92-91 win over Tennessee — and allowed Stanford to hit the century mark.

Outlook: Florida State is deep, with seven gamers competing a minimum of 19 minutes per sport. It’ll want that depth and scoring all through the match because it hasn’t discovered a technique to modify defensively. It will depend on the draw, however seeing Florida State advance to the Candy 16 looks as if a longshot.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Seminoles restrict turnovers however battle defensively to cease the opposition, permitting conference-high 72 factors per sport.

File: 23-10

Coach: Brooke Wyckoff

Participant to observe: Makayla Timpson

Strengths: Marquette begins 5 seniors, and its fashion of play displays that. It averagings the Twelfth-most assists per sport, with an assisted shot fee of 68.3 and an help to turnover fee of 1.29. Liza Karlen has taken on a much bigger function for Marquette this season, upping her utilization fee to a team-high 29.6, whereas elevating her per-game numbers from 11.4 factors final season to 18.

Weaknesses: Regardless of a comparatively simple schedule, Marquette misplaced each video games towards UConn by a complete of 57 factors. In its different 5 losses, it misplaced by a complete of 18 factors. So you’ll be able to have a look at that because it with the ability to keep in shut video games, or you’ll be able to have a look at it as Marquette being unable to place away groups like St. John’s and Villanova twice.

Outlook: Marquette can advance out of the No. 7 versus No. 10 matchup, however then it might need to take down the No. 2 seed in its bracket. The veteran Golden Eagles can do rather a lot, however that’s a tall activity.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Veteran-laden group that will get everybody concerned. It has the nation’s sixth-highest assisted shot fee (68.3 p.c).

File: 23-8

Coach: Megan Duffy

Participant to observe: Liz Karlen

Strengths: Whatever the context, 26-2 is one hell of a season. UNLV gained by a margin of 20.6 factors, averaging 112.9 factors per 100 possessions regardless of a median 70.7 tempo. The Woman Rebels led the nation in defensive rebound fee, whereas not often turning over the ball – simply 10.6 per sport.

Weaknesses: UNLV additionally had a energy of schedule that ranked fairly low. Its marquee victories got here in December towards Arizona and Oklahoma — and it gained each comfortably. Nevertheless it struggled to place away video games towards Boise State, Wyoming, Colorado State and New Mexico. .

Outlook: It’s laborious to totally purchase into UNLV given the dearth of true competitors it confronted this 12 months. Spherical 2 is the ceiling.

Workforce in 16 phrases:UNLV completed 26-2 with the No. 104 hardest schedule. It led nationally in defensive rebound fee.

File: 30-2

Coach: Lindy La Rocque

Participant to observe: Desi-Rae Younger

Strengths: Richmond completed the common season with its highest profitable proportion in additional than three a long time. It’s within the match for the primary time since 2005. What an accomplishment for fourth-year head coach Aaron Roussell. The Spiders are elite from behind the arc, with 37.5 p.c of its complete factors coming from downtown. Siobhan Ryan leads the nation together with her 49 3-point p.c amongst gamers with a minimum of 100 makes an attempt.

Weaknesses: Richmond is fairly one-dimensional. It tried simply 946 2-point area targets this season. For context, it shot 754 3-pointers. The Spiders don’t generate a ton of second-chance alternatives given its offensive gameplan, so it should hit its pictures.

Outlook:An upset right here isn’t inconceivable, and if Richmond will get sizzling, it could possibly be a Cinderella who advances to the Candy 16. We’ve seen it battle towards match faculties this season, although, so decide the Spiders at your individual danger.

Workforce in 16 phrases:The Richmond Spiders’ 83.9 profitable proportion ties the all-time faculty report, set approach again in 1990-1991.

File: 29-5

Coach: Aaron Roussell

Participant to observe: Siobhan Ryan

Strengths: Maryland performed at a quick tempo all season, averaging 77.9 factors per sport and 101.7 factors per 100 possessions. The previous ranked twenty second within the nation. Shyanne Sellers paced the play all season lengthy for the Terrapins, averaging a team-high 15.3 factors and 5.3 assists per sport. The assists have been tied for the Seventeenth-most per sport within the nation. Maryland is an especially deep squad, with 9 gamers averaging 13 or extra minutes per sport, and it used seven totally different starters this season..

Weaknesses: Its 17-12 report is tough, however the energy of schedule is an enormous cause. The Terps had the nation’s eighth-hardest schedule, with their opponents’ common win p.c at 63. And that tempo and high-powered offense we spoke about? Yeah, it was wanted, because it allowed 73.1 factors per sport. Solely 26 groups allowed extra factors than Maryland did.

Outlook:Maryland’s losses made sense: South Carolina, UConn, Nebraska, Michigan State, Ohio State, Indiana, Iowa, Ohio State, Indiana. That’s actually, actually robust. You realize what else is hard? Match groups. Maryland could also be deep, and despite the fact that it gained massive towards Ohio State within the Massive Ten tourney, it can battle to maintain tempo with the others.

Workforce in 16 phrases:Maryland’s a deep group that completed 17-12 however had the eighth-hardest schedule (63 opponent win p.c).

File: 19-13

Coach: Brenda Frese, 4 Candy 16s, 4 Elite Eights, two Closing Fours, one championship

Participant to observe: Shyanne Sellers

Strengths: The Aggies’ protection was robust this season, holding opponents to 82.8 factors per 100 possessions and 68.7 factors per sport. Additionally they thrived on the boards, averaging 14 rebounds per sport behind the duo of Lauren Ware and Janiah Baker. Auburn switch Aicha Coulibaly was one of many extra underrated SEC gamers, averaging 14.5 factors per convention sport.

Weaknesses: Effectivity was an enormous offensive challenge for Texas A&M. It shot 27.9 from 3, 46.2 p.c from 2 and a poor 67.8 p.c on free throws. The Aggies began the season crimson sizzling, however when convention play began, they struggled majorly. They went 6-10 within the SEC, shedding 5 of its six remaining regular-season contests.

Outlook: If the Aggies makes it previous the primary weekend — not to mention out of the primary spherical — it’ll be by controlling the boards and enjoying robust protection. A primary-round upset could possibly be within the playing cards, however something past that isn’t value banking on.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Texas A&M’s 82.8 defensive ranking was the Aggies’ highest mark since hitting 82.4 in 2012-2013 season.

File: 19-12

Coach: Joni Taylor

Participant to observe: Aicha Coulibaly

Strengths: “We’re what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, isn’t an act, however a behavior.” Will Durant might have give you the quote, however the Blue Raiders utilized it this season. The Convention USA champs began the identical 5 gamers in all 29 regular-season video games. These gamers have been in a minimum of 30.4 minutes per sport. Coach Thibs is someplace smiling proper now. Center Tennessee’s protection is elite, holding opponents to 54.3 factors per sport.

Weaknesses: The Blue Raiders’ energy of schedule was No. 170. Beating Tennessee was their largest win — on paper, a minimum of, as they registered a 45-point victory over Florida A&M — so they haven’t been examined like they are going to be within the match. Can their protection translate over?

Outlook: The final time Center Tennessee received out of the primary spherical was 2007, when it was a No. 5 seed and knocked off Gonzaga. Since then, it’s been one-and-done eight totally different instances. A second spherical look is within the playing cards this 12 months.

Workforce in 16 phrases: From high to backside, this can be one of the best Center Tennessee Blue Raiders group since 2013-2014.

File: 29-4

Coach:Rick Insell

Participant to observe: Anastasiia Boldyreva

Strengths: You’re going to battle within the SEC — until you’re South Carolina. It was no totally different for Auburn, nevertheless it did end the season on a three-game profitable streak towards Texas A&M, Mississippi State and Florida. The Tigers had shut calls towards LSU, Alabama, Arkansas, Vanderbilt, Ole Miss and Tennessee – all losses that have been by single digits that its protection saved aggressive. That unit permits solely 79.8 factors per 100 possession, which is sweet for the seventh greatest mark within the nation.

Weaknesses: Auburn was ugly from 3-point vary, capturing solely 28.7 p.c there making simply 110 treys all season. It had the Thirteenth-worst 3-point fee at 18.8 p.c. That’s why, regardless of the strong tempo it performs, it nonetheless wasn’t in a position to rating on the fee it wanted to to enrich its defensive efforts.

Outlook: Auburn hasn’t made it to the second weekend since 1996, regardless of making the match 9 instances since then. It’ll face a troublesome street as it really works to finish that streak. Even when first-team All-SEC Honesty Scott-Grayson is in her bag, the dearth of capturing will put Auburn’s journey on maintain.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Auburn has a stifling protection, nevertheless it struggles immensely from 3-point vary, capturing simply 29 p.c.

File: 20-11

Coach:Johnnie Harris

Participant to observe: Honesty Scott-Grayson

Strengths: Arizona likes to play inside out. It tried simply 414 3-pointers this season to fee within the Sixteenth percentile. Helena Pueyo earned First Workforce All-Pac-12 honors as she performed 36.4 minutes per sport and swiped three balls per sport on common. The longer term is vibrant in Arizona, too, as freshman Jada Williams earned All-Freshman honors.

Weaknesses: The Wildcats are in a troublesome spot. Main scorer Kailyn Gilbert made her final look for Arizona on Feb. 18. The struggles got here earlier than Gilbert left the group, although, as Arizona discovered itself in a stretch the place it misplaced six of eight video games between Jan. 5 and Jan. 28. Williams and Pueyo assist, in fact, nevertheless it’s laborious to make up for Gilbert’s absence, and people two alone can’t enhance Arizona’s defensive rebounding, which hauled 21.9 per sport.

Outlook: Getting Williams match expertise is an enormous plus right here. Whether or not it’s a sport or two stays the query, however constructing off it for subsequent 12 months is the principle aim.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Who wants the deep ball? Not Arizona, apparently, because it tried simply 414 on the season.

File: 17-15

Coach:Adia Barnes, one Closing 4

Participant to observe: Helena Pueyo

Strengths: Inexperienced Bay performs at a sluggish tempo, which is elevated by its hard-nosed protection. Its 66.7 possessions per 40 minutes ranked No. 322, nevertheless it held opponents to 57.8 factors per sport, with a median margin of victory of 16.4 factors. First-team Horizon League guard Natalie McNeal leads the nation in scoring and rebounds.

Weaknesses: Regardless of all of its bigs and wings listed at 6-foot-1 or taller, Inexperienced Bay ranks within the 18th percentile in blocks per sport with 2.1. The Phoenix additionally battle mightily on the boards, knocking down 34.2 per sport.

Outlook: Inexperienced Bay was aggressive in most video games, with its largest loss coming towards Horizon League Participant of the Yr Colbi Maples and Cleveland State. The Phoenix had nonconference wins towards Creighton and Washington State — by a median of 11.5 factors. A second-round look wouldn’t shock me, nevertheless it’s laborious to see them attending to the Candy 16 for the primary time since 2011.

Workforce in 16 phrases: No senioritis in Inexperienced Bay, because it begins 5 juniors and rosters one senior (Natalie Andersen).

File: 27-6

Coach:Kevin Borseth

Participant to observe: Natalie McNeal

Portland 4

Horizon League

Strengths: The Eagles went undefeated in convention, and it wasn’t a simple street, as they handled accidents to key contributors all season. Nonetheless, they made it rain from behind the arc, trying the eighth-most 3-pointers within the nation. They tried so many, in actual fact, that the 804 makes an attempt have been simply 4 shy of their complete 2-point makes an attempt.

Weaknesses: FGCU performs at an excellent sluggish tempo of 68.4 possessions per 40 minutes. The Eagles additionally take a quantity strategy for its pictures from behind the arc, capturing 30.3 p.c, which is correct across the fiftieth percentile within the metric.

Outlook: FGCU has made the second spherical in consecutive years however hasn’t made the Candy 16 since 2007. If the pictures fall at higher than a 30.3 p.c clip, it would simply see the second weekend.

Workforce in 16 phrases: The slow-paced FGCU Eagles held their opponents to the fewest factors per sport (55.9) since 2015-2016.

File: 29-4

Coach: Karl Smesko

Participant to observe: Uju Ezeudu

Strengths: Katie Dinnebier was unbelievable this season, averaging 18.1 factors and seven assists per sport in addition to 2.5 steals. Dinnebier was the one participant within the nation to common a minimum of 18 factors, 7 assists and a pair of steals in a sport.

Weaknesses: Drake turned averaged 17.7 turnovers per sport, and it had 4 starters — Dinnebier, Grace Berg, Anna Miller and Taylor McAulay — who averaged a minimum of 2 per sport.

Outlook: 4 of Drake’s 5 losses got here towards Iowa, Richmond, Creighton and a double-overtime loss towards Minnesota. It’ll want some assist for Dinnebier — maybe from Anna Miller? — if it hopes to get to the second weekend.

Weaknesses: Drake turned averaged 17.7 turnovers per sport, and it had 4 starters — Dinnebier, Grace Berg, Anna Miller and Taylor McAulay — who averaged a minimum of 2 per sport.

Workforce in 16 phrases: The Bulldogs’ 83.9 profitable proportion is their highest mark for the reason that 2016-2017 season (at 84.4 p.c).

File: 27-5

Coach: Allison Pohlman

Participant to observe: Katie Dinnebier

Strengths: Vandy is unbelievable at getting steals. It was within the 92nd percentile in steals per sport and 94th percentile in steal fee. Although it struggled down the stretch, it saved video games shut towards non-elite SEC groups — South Carolina, LSU and Tennessee — earlier than shedding to Florida within the second spherical of the convention match.

Weaknesses: Vandy has promise for the longer term. It has solely two seniors on its roster. Dropping freshman Madison Greene to a season-ending ACL damage after 11 video games was an enormous blow.

Outlook: Subsequent season can be a optimistic one, however so far as this match goes, it’s going to be an early exit. The Commodores, although, must be pleased with its greatest regular-season in 11 years.

Weaknesses: Vandy has promise for the longer term. It has solely two seniors on its roster. Dropping freshman Madison Greene to a season-ending ACL damage after 11 video games was an enormous blow.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Vandy began the season sizzling, going 16-1, however floundered late, ending 6-9 to complete the 12 months.

File: 22-9

Coach: Shea Ralph

Participant to observe: Iyana Moore

Strengths: The Lions are a sneaky-good offensive group. They scored 108 factors per 100 possessions and averaged 76 factors per sport, which helps to offset its 63.2 factors allowed on common defensively. Columbia’s offensive rebounding capability can’t be overstated. It ranked sixth within the nation in offensive rebounding fee, behind Kitty Henderon’s team-leading 2.4 boards.

Weaknesses: Columbia didn’t face a troublesome schedule — No. 94 within the nation so far as problem — and its protection leaves rather a lot to be desired. It may be attacked on the inside, because it was within the twenty fourth percentile in blocks per sport with 2.3.

Outlook: That is Columbia’s first NCAA Match look, regardless of competing within the Ivy League since 1984. May it knock off Vanderbilt? Yeah. Can it take down Baylor if it wins? Unlikely.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Columbia’s 108.9 offensive ranking is its highest within the trendy period (ranking at 104.8 in 2023).

File: 23-6

Coach: Megan Griffith

Participant to observe: Abbey Hsu

Strengths: The Jackrabbits love the 3-point shot. Their 38.7 p.c from 3 is the fourth-best nationally this season. That performs a component in South Dakota State’s 0.93 factors per play and 1.14 factors per scoring try marks regardless of enjoying at a sluggish tempo.

Weaknesses: When confronted with nonconference competitors, South Dakota State has struggled mightily. All 5 losses got here towards 5 tournament-bound opponents. The Jackrabbits have overcome plenty of accidents, shedding Madysen Vlastuin to a season-ended damage 19 video games into the season. Additionally they misplaced Kallie Theisen and Haleigh Timmer earlier than the season even began.

Outlook: South Dakota State can rating, however we’ve seen what occurs when it goes up towards a nonconference foes. Sure, the Jackrabbits made the Candy 16 in 2019 after they upset No. 3 Oregon, however this isn’t 2019. This Jackrabbits group has early exit written throughout it.

Workforce in 16 phrases: South Dakota has been undefeated since Dec. 31, however went 0-5 towards nonconference NCAA Match groups.

File: 27-5

Coach: Aaron Johnston, one Candy 16

Participant to observe: Brooklyn Meyer

Portland 4

Summit League

Strengths: Fairfield’s offense was wonderful, however its protection that allowed 55 factors per sport was the massive cause it misplaced solely as soon as this season. Meghan Andersen led the Stags with 15.5 factors and 1.4 blocks per sport.

Weaknesses: The Stags don’t have a deep bench, with seven gamers averaging quarter-hour or extra per sport. After that, it’s a deep drop-off. Fairfield’s protection is robust, however will that translate towards harder groups? If not, can its offense step up?

Outlook: It was a historic season, as its solely loss got here on Nov. 12 in a three-point loss to Vanderbilt. The Stags would make an amazing Cinderella, and the trail isn’t the toughest to advance to the second weekend. I’ll decide them as a Spherical of 32 group.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Fairfield’s lone loss towards Vanderbilt (73-70) is its fewest at school historical past, relationship again to 1981.

File: 31-1

Coach: Carly Thibault-DuDonis

Participant to observe: Meghan Andersen

Strengths: The Pilots are driving the momentum after taking down Gonzaga in one of many season’s largest upsets within the WCC title sport. They play at a quick tempo and are lively defensively, averaging 10.5 steals and 5.6 blocks per sport.

Weaknesses: It’s been a real momentum run by the convention match. Portland misplaced 4 of its remaining 5 video games of the common season, and the final two losses have been to San Francisco and Gonzaga by 12 and 50 factors, respectively. The Pilots common 18 turnovers per sport, and their 559 turnovers ranked No. 331 out of 360 groups.

Outlook: The convention run has been nice, and bursting the bubble of groups on the perimeter has to really feel good. However Portland has subsequent to no likelihood to exit the primary spherical as winner.

Workforce in 16 phrases: The Pilots’ defensive ranking (86.9) is the very best it has been in additional than a decade.

File: 21-12

Coach: Michael Meek

Participant to observe: Emme Shearer

Strengths: Marshall scored 116 factors towards Appalachian State within the Solar Belt match, and it is simply an instance of the offense it is able to. The Herd have three gamers who common a minimum of 13.9 factors per sport.

Weaknesses: The Herd battle from the charity stripe, capturing 65.7 p.c per sport. What’s extra, its protection permits 71.6 factors per sport.

Outlook: Marshall can pour on the factors — it scored greater than 100 factors 3 times this season — however will its protection be capable to cease anybody within the match? It’s going dwelling early this 12 months.

Weaknesses: The Herd battle from the charity stripe, capturing 65.7 p.c per sport. What’s extra, its protection permits 71.6 factors per sport.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Marshall can completely rating, averaging 84.2 factors per sport (that ranks as fifth within the nation).

File: 26-6

Coach: Kim Stephens

Participant to observe: Abby Beeman

Strengths: UC Irvine is elite defensively. 5 totally different gamers – Nikki Tom, Deja Lee, Diaba Konate, Moulayna Johnson Sidi Baba, and Nevaeh Dean – completed the season with defensive win shares of greater than 1. Lee was the very best at 1.7.

Weaknesses: The Anteaters commerce elite protection for poor offense at a sluggish tempo. They rank within the Sixteenth percentile in tempo (67.4) and common a hair over 63.2 factors per sport.

Outlook: Its key victory this season was towards Japanese Washington, so UC Irvine may battle towards match groups. It had the 59th best schedule on the 12 months.

Weaknesses: The Anteaters commerce elite protection for poor offense at a sluggish tempo. They rank within the Sixteenth percentile in tempo (67.4) and common a hair over 63.2 factors per sport.

Outlook: Its key victory this season was towards Japanese Washington, so UC Irvine may battle towards match groups. It had the 59th best schedule on the 12 months.

Weaknesses: The Anteaters commerce elite protection for poor offense at a sluggish tempo. They rank within the Sixteenth percentile in tempo (67.4) and common a hair over 63.2 factors per sport.

Outlook: Its key victory this season was towards Japanese Washington, so UC Irvine may battle towards match groups. It had the 59th best schedule on the 12 months.

Workforce in 16 phrases: The Anteaters are making their first NCAA Match look since 1995, after they misplaced to Stanford.

File: 23-8

Coach: Tamara Inoue

Participant to observe: Deja Lee

Strengths: Aaliyah Alexander and Jamie Loera are Japanese Washington’s leaders, serving to safe its first NCAA Match look in 37 years. Loera averages 2.4 steals per sport.

Weaknesses: Japanese Washington had the 93rd best schedule this season, with its opponents’ common profitable proportion coming in at 46.2 p.c.

Outlook: Returning to the match is a unbelievable accomplishment for Joddie Gleason and Co. No disgrace in an early exit.

Strengths: Aaliyah Alexander and Jamie Loera are Japanese Washington’s leaders, serving to safe its first NCAA Match look in 37 years. Loera averages 2.4 steals per sport.

Weaknesses: Japanese Washington had the 93rd best schedule this season, with its opponents’ common profitable proportion coming in at 46.2 p.c.

Outlook: Returning to the match is a unbelievable accomplishment for Joddie Gleason and Co. No disgrace in an early exit.

Strengths: Aaliyah Alexander and Jamie Loera are Japanese Washington’s leaders, serving to safe its first NCAA Match look in 37 years. Loera averages 2.4 steals per sport.

Weaknesses: Japanese Washington had the 93rd best schedule this season, with its opponents’ common profitable proportion coming in at 46.2 p.c.

Outlook: Returning to the match is a unbelievable accomplishment for Joddie Gleason and Co. No disgrace in an early exit.

Workforce in 16 phrases: That is the Eagles first NCAA Match look since 1987, when it misplaced 75-56 versus Oregon.

File: 29-5

Coach: Joddie Gleason

Participant to observe: Jamie Loera

Strengths: After shedding its remaining 5 video games of the season, Rice made pretty simple work of the competitors within the AAC match. What was the distinction? Effectively, the Owls’ protection stepped up. Each its offense and protection was middling through the common season, however within the convention match, Rice didn’t permit anybody to eclipse the 60-point mark. It was particularly spectacular holding East Carolina to 41 factors.

Weaknesses: Rice can get sloppy. It turned over the ball 500 instances this season — 15.2 per sport — and allowed its opponents to reside on the foul line, committing 18.1 fouls per sport.

Outlook: It’s a stunning match bid for Rice, and it’s an amazing accomplishment for Lindsay Edmonds, making her first Massive Dance as a head coach. However Rice struggled in shut video games all season towards inferior competitors in comparison with what it can face within the NCAA Match. With neither an above-average offense or protection, it’s laborious to see Rice being the primary No. 14 seed to tug off an upset.

Weaknesses: Rice can get sloppy. It turned over the ball 500 instances this season — 15.2 per sport — and allowed its opponents to reside on the foul line, committing 18.1 fouls per sport.

Workforce in 16 phrases: This 12 months’s NCAA Match is Rice’s fourth look within the Massive Dance in its faculty’s historical past.

File: 19-14

Coach:Lindsay Edmonds

Participant to observe: Malia Fisher

Strengths: Miya Crump and Angel Jackson present a pleasant one-two punch for the Tigers. Jackson State averages 10.3 factors, 6.9 rebounds and a pair of.8 blocks per sport. The blocks places the Tigers within the nation’s one hundredth percentile.

Weaknesses: The Tigers generally tend to foul a ton. They common 17.8 fouls per sport, so there’s a draw back to its 4.8 blocks per sport and the aggressiveness defensively.

Outlook: A No. 14 seed has by no means defeated a No. 3 seed. It’s not taking place this 12 months with Jackson State, both.

Weaknesses: The Tigers generally tend to foul a ton. They common 17.8 fouls per sport, so there’s a draw back to its 4.8 blocks per sport and the aggressiveness defensively.

Outlook: A No. 14 seed has by no means defeated a No. 3 seed. It’s not taking place this 12 months with Jackson State, both.

Weaknesses: The Tigers generally tend to foul a ton. They common 17.8 fouls per sport, so there’s a draw back to its 4.8 blocks per sport and the aggressiveness defensively.

Outlook: A No. 14 seed has by no means defeated a No. 3 seed. It’s not taking place this 12 months with Jackson State, both.

Workforce in 16 phrases:It was an amazing end to the season as Jackson State completed 18-0 after beginning 2-6.

File: 26-6

Coach: Tomekia Reed

Participant to observe: Angel Jackson

Strengths: Jada Quinn was a bucket for Chattanooga this season, averaging 19.5 factors and seven.2 boards per sport on 52.2 p.c capturing. Its protection was robust, permitting 54.5 factors per sport.
.

Weaknesses: The Mocs struggled from downtown, capturing 29.4 p.c from 3. Additionally they ranked No. 357 out of 360 groups with 7.1 offensive rebounds per sport.

Outlook: A key win towards Mississippi State confirmed that it will possibly compete, however Chattanooga isn’t going to get previous the primary spherical towards NC State.

Weaknesses: The Mocs struggled from downtown, capturing 29.4 p.c from 3. Additionally they ranked No. 357 out of 360 groups with 7.1 offensive rebounds per sport.

Outlook: A key win towards Mississippi State confirmed that it will possibly compete, however Chattanooga isn’t going to get previous the primary spherical towards NC State.

Weaknesses: The Mocs struggled from downtown, capturing 29.4 p.c from 3. Additionally they ranked No. 357 out of 360 groups with 7.1 offensive rebounds per sport.

Outlook: A key win towards Mississippi State confirmed that it will possibly compete, however Chattanooga isn’t going to get previous the primary spherical towards NC State.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Its 25 wins, behind an elite protection that enables 54.7 ppg, are probably the most since 2014-2015.

File: 28-4

Coach: Shawn Poppie

Participant to observe: Jada Quinn

Portland 4

Southern Convention

Strengths: The Golden Flashes offense, led by Katie Shumate (15.1 factors per sport) and Jenna Batsch (13.8) does sufficient to maintain them in video games, averaging 70.2 factors per contest. In half of its losses, Kent State was unable to hit its season-long mark in common factors scored per sport.

Weaknesses: Kent State struggles mightily from the free-throw line, capturing 74.3 p.c. That reared its head in single-digit losses to Ball State, Ohio, Previous Dominion and Duquesne.

Outlook: Kent State goes dancing for the primary time in two-plus years. Does the end result actually matter? It’s an enormous accomplishment for Todd Starkey and workers — even with a first-round exit lined up.

Weaknesses: Kent State struggles mightily from the free-throw line, capturing 74.3 p.c. That reared its head in single-digit losses to Ball State, Ohio, Previous Dominion and Duquesne.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Kent State is making its first NCAA Match look for the reason that 2002 season (No. 14 seed).

File: 21-10

Coach: Todd Starkey

Participant to observe: Katie Shumate

Strengths: The Lancers can rating, they usually can rating in bunches. Chloe Webb leads them with 21.1 factors per sport, however as a squad, they common 81.1 factors to rank No. 11 nationally – because of its quick tempo (78.3 possessions per 40 minutes).

Weaknesses: Cal Baptist’s protection permits opponents to attain at will, permitting 70.9 factors per sport. It additionally struggles on the glass; its 30.1 defensive rebounds per sport are the fifth-fewest per sport within the nation.

Outlook: The Lancers have been dominant since making the change to Division I, shedding a complete of 26 video games over the previous 4 seasons — half of these coming final 12 months. They need to have a look at making the NCAA Match as a test of the field. Change to DI? Examine. Win the convention? Examine. Make the match? Examine. Win a match sport? Perhaps subsequent 12 months.

Workforce in 16 phrases: The Lancers are making the NCAA Match for the primary time after finishing their DI transition.

File: 28-3

Coach: Jarrod Olson

Participant to observe: Chloe Webb

Strengths: Adrianna Smith was unbelievable for the Black Bears, averaging 16.3 factors and 11.1 rebounds per to go together with 4.7 assists. Smith was the one participant to perform these marks this season.

Weaknesses: Maine’s sluggish tempo limits its offensive ceiling. It averaged 64.3 factors per sport, and although its protection held opponents to 56.5, that was towards non-tournament competitors.

Outlook: A primary-round loss is occurring, however the protection and Smith’s play will hold it from being a blowout. Take the beneath in case you’re a betting individual.

Weaknesses: Maine’s sluggish tempo limits its offensive ceiling. It averaged 64.3 factors per sport, and although its protection held opponents to 56.5, that was towards non-tournament competitors.

Outlook: A primary-round loss is occurring, however the protection and Smith’s play will hold it from being a blowout. Take the beneath in case you’re a betting individual.

Weaknesses: Maine’s sluggish tempo limits its offensive ceiling. It averaged 64.3 factors per sport, and although its protection held opponents to 56.5, that was towards non-tournament competitors.

Outlook: A primary-round loss is occurring, however the protection and Smith’s play will hold it from being a blowout. Take the beneath in case you’re a betting individual.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Maine performs at a 65.5 tempo (sixth percentile) — and that’s up from 64.5 final season.

File: 24-9

Coach: Amy Vachon

Participant to observe: Adrianna Smith

Strengths: Diamond Johnson averaged 4 steals per sport, which trailed solely Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo and Siena’s Elisa Mevius this season.

Weaknesses: Norfolk State ranks lifeless final in opponents common factors per 100 possessions with 82.3.

Outlook: No. 15 seeds are 0-116 all time within the match.

Strengths: Diamond Johnson averaged 4 steals per sport, which trailed solely Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo and Siena’s Elisa Mevius this season.

Weaknesses: Norfolk State ranks lifeless final in opponents common factors per 100 possessions with 82.3.

Outlook: No. 15 seeds are 0-116 all time within the match.

Strengths: Diamond Johnson averaged 4 steals per sport, which trailed solely Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo and Siena’s Elisa Mevius this season.

Weaknesses: Norfolk State ranks lifeless final in opponents common factors per 100 possessions with 82.3.

Outlook: No. 15 seeds are 0-116 all time within the match.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Norfolk State’s ranked within the ninety fifth percentile or higher in opponents ppg 5 instances since 2017-2018.

File: 27-5

Coach: Larry Vickers

Participant to observe: Diamond Johnson

Strengths: If there’s one factor that stands out in a great way for the Blue Hose, it is their protection. They restrict the scoring opportunies and personal the defensive boards.

Weaknesses: That’s the place the reward ends. Presbyterian has a -3.3 scoring differential on the season, averaging 56.5 factors on offense and 59.8 allowed per sport on protection.

Outlook: Seventeen years after changing into a Division I faculty, Alauara Sharp led Presby to its first NCAA Match. Dropping within the first spherical will nonetheless be thought-about a hit.

Strengths: If there’s one factor that stands out in a great way for the Blue Hose, it is their protection. They restrict the scoring opportunies and personal the defensive boards.

Weaknesses: That’s the place the reward ends. Presbyterian has a -3.3 scoring differential on the season, averaging 56.5 factors on offense and 59.8 allowed per sport on protection.

Outlook: Seventeen years after changing into a Division I faculty, Alauara Sharp led Presby to its first NCAA Match. Dropping within the first spherical will nonetheless be thought-about a hit.

Strengths: If there’s one factor that stands out in a great way for the Blue Hose, it is their protection. They restrict the scoring opportunies and personal the defensive boards.

Weaknesses: That’s the place the reward ends. Presbyterian has a -3.3 scoring differential on the season, averaging 56.5 factors on offense and 59.8 allowed per sport on protection.

Outlook: Seventeen years after changing into a Division I faculty, Alauara Sharp led Presby to its first NCAA Match. Dropping within the first spherical will nonetheless be thought-about a hit.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Nice defensively however not a lot on offense; it is nice simply to be in!

File: 20-14 (8-8 Massive South)

Coach: Alaura Sharp (First NCAA Match)

Gamers to observe: Bryanna Brady and Tilda Sjokvist

Strengths: The offense for Sacred Coronary heart runs by Ny’Ceara Pryor. She makes an attempt 15.2 area targets per sport, averaging 19.4 factors per contest with a 30.5 utilization fee.

Weaknesses: The Pioneers struggled on the charity stripe (68.7 p.c) in addition to behind the arc (28.7 p.c) on offense, they usually additionally struggled on the boards defensively, averaging simply 23.1 defensive rebounds per sport.

Outlook: Pryor will present the scoring quantity that Sacred Coronary heart must keep away from a first-half blowout, however there aren’t sufficient complementary gamers round her to place them in upset territory.

Strengths: The offense for Sacred Coronary heart runs by Ny’Ceara Pryor. She makes an attempt 15.2 area targets per sport, averaging 19.4 factors per contest with a 30.5 utilization fee.

Workforce in 16 phrases: The Pioneers are making the NCAA Match in consecutive years for the primary time in historical past.

File: 24-9

Coach: Jessica Mannetti

Participant to observe: Ny’Ceara Pryor

Strengths: Holy Cross goes dancing once more, and it’s largely to the play of Bronagh Energy-Cassidy, who not solely has improved her scoring common from 13.5 factors final season to 16.6 this season, however her 24.2 PER and 26 p.c utilization fee are high-water marks in her four-year profession.

Weaknesses: Holy Cross performs at an exceptionally sluggish tempo, averaging 65.9 possessions per 40 minutes. Although it has a strong total defensive ranking and holds opponents off of the scoreboard, it’s one of many worst groups within the nation (No. 351) in steals per sport with simply 4.9.

Outlook: Again-to-back years within the match out of the Patriot League is a unbelievable accomplishment.

Workforce in 16 phrases: The Crusaders are making consecutive appearances within the NCAA Match for the primary time since 2000-2001.

File: 20-12

Coach: Maureen Magarity

Participant to observe: Bronagh Energy-Cassidy

Strengths: Anaya Brown stood out for the Skyhawks, averaging 15.1 factors, 8.9 boards and three.4 STOCKs. UT Martin ranked No. 21 (77.4 p.c) and No. 14 (36.9 p.c) in free throw and 3-point proportion, respectively.

Weaknesses: The Skyhawks sluggish tempo resulted in simply 67.3 possessions per 40 minutes. What’s extra, their opponents averaged 93.6 factors per 100 possessions.

Outlook: Kudos are deserved for turning round a season that gave the impression to be misplaced in early December. It’s the fifth total NCAA Match for the Skyhawks — their first since 2014.

Weaknesses: The Skyhawks sluggish tempo resulted in simply 67.3 possessions per 40 minutes. What’s extra, their opponents averaged 93.6 factors per 100 possessions.

Outlook: Kudos are deserved for turning round a season that gave the impression to be misplaced in early December. It’s the fifth total NCAA Match for the Skyhawks — their first since 2014.

Weaknesses: The Skyhawks sluggish tempo resulted in simply 67.3 possessions per 40 minutes. What’s extra, their opponents averaged 93.6 factors per 100 possessions.

Outlook: Kudos are deserved for turning round a season that gave the impression to be misplaced in early December. It’s the fifth total NCAA Match for the Skyhawks — their first since 2014.

Workforce in 16 phrases: UT Martin misplaced eight of its first 9 video games, ending .500 after profitable its convention match.

File: 16-16

Coach: Kevin McMillan

Participant to observe: Anaya Brown

Strengths: The Islanders have three gamers who carry the load offensively, counting on Paige Allen, Alecia Westbrook and Mireia Aguado — all of whom common eleven-plus factors per sport. Their robust protection limits opponents to 82.5 factors per 100 possessions.

Weaknesses: The Islanders battle from behind the 3-point line, the place they shot 26.2 p.c. Solely 29 groups shot worse.

Outlook: Just one No. 16 group ever knocked off a No. 1 seed earlier than. The large win for the Islanders was over Lamar within the convention match … and making it to the Massive Dance for the primary time.

Weaknesses: The Islanders battle from behind the 3-point line, the place they shot 26.2 p.c. Solely 29 groups shot worse.

Workforce in 16 phrases: The Islanders earned their first NCAA Match bid at school historical past after knocking off Lamar 68-61.

File: 23-8

Coach: Royce Chadwick

Participant to observe: Alecia Westbrook

Portland 3

Southland Convention

Strengths: Drexel continued its streak of enjoying elite protection, as 2023-2024 marked the 14th straight season the place it has allowed fewer than 60 factors per sport. Its 55.5 allowed on common was the Twelfth-best mark this season.

Weaknesses: The tempo. Was so. Sluggish. Drexel’s 63.5 tempo was the fourth-worst mark within the nation. With that, it scored 57.2 factors per sport.

Outlook: When its opponents scored a minimum of 60 factors, Drexel was 2-10. Its different 4 losses got here when its offense stalled, scoring 57, 56, 47, and 48 factors, respectively. The dearth of offense gained’t play for Drexel’s hopes of constructing a good run within the NCAA Match.

Weaknesses: The tempo. Was so. Sluggish. Drexel’s 63.5 tempo was the fourth-worst mark within the nation. With that, it scored 57.2 factors per sport.

Workforce in 16 phrases: Drexel has allowed fewer than 60 factors per sport in every of the final 14 seasons.

File: 19-14

Coach: Amy Mallon

Participant to observe: Chloe Hodges

Regional breakdowns

Albany 1

South Carolina being the No. 1 total seed is not any shock, in fact, and if the bracket goes full chalk, we’ll get a showdown between the Gamecocks and Hanna Hidalgo and the Irish. The must-watch sport of the bracket — assuming each win their respective first-round matchups — is Nebraska vs. Oregon State in Spherical 2. Nebraska is without doubt one of the few groups that has the flexibility to knock off South Carolina in regional play. We’ve seen how robust it performed Iowa this 12 months.

If Mackenzie Holmes isn’t one hundred pc, Oklahoma might have a better path to the Candy 16 than anticipated.

Albany 2

Caitlin Clark and Iowa made it to the title sport final 12 months. If it hopes to return, it has one heck of a journey forward of it. Iowa, arguably, has the toughest journey for a No. 1 seed, because it must overcome LSU or UCLA as potential favorites from the underside of the area.

You noticed the faces of the LSU gamers and workers, proper? They appeared as shocked as us at dwelling after they noticed that it was a No. 3 seed as an alternative of a No. 2 seed.

Bulletin board materials proper there, and it’s important to really feel for Rice who has to face the Tigers within the first spherical.

Regardless of the Over/Beneath is on the West Virginia and Princeton sport, hammer the Beneath. Each groups are robust defensively, and Princeton performs a grind-them-out fashion of ball. If it will possibly defeat West Virginia, watching that protection towards Clark and Iowa goes to be plenty of enjoyable.

Portland 3

Butter or plain? Regardless of how you are taking your popcorn, get it prepared. It is a area that’s going to placed on a present. JuJu Watkins, Jacy Sheldon, Georgia Amoore, Dyaisha Honest, Paige Bueckers — the buckets are limitless right here.

As enjoyable because it’s going to be as viewers, for followers of the respective groups within the area — and, in fact, the groups themselves – this can be a robust, robust area.

Exterior of how Watkins performs within the match as a real freshman, the opposite largest storyline right here is the well being of Elizabeth Kitley, the three-time ACC Participant of the Yr for Virginia Tech. She injured her knee within the regular-season finale, and updates have been scarce. If Kitley is ready to go and is something near one hundred pc, Virginia Tech turns into a group who might simply make it out of the area and on to Cleveland.

Circled within the area is the potential Spherical of 32 matchup between UConn and Syracuse. Honest vs. the combo of Bueckers and Aaliyah Edwards is the kind of sport the place you should faux a sick day to tune in.

The winner of Vanderbilt and Columbia has a troublesome matchup towards Baylor, however you’ll be able to pencil in Baylor vs. Virginia Tech in Spherical 2.

Portland 4

What have you ever completed for me these days, or what have you ever earned? That’s the query with the No. 1 seed right here. Texas – not Stanford – earned the No. 1 seed, and with Texas’ play within the Massive 12 Match, you’ll be able to see why.

Cameron Brink and the Cardinal will get the winner of Maryland and Iowa State in Spherical 2. The Cyclones struggled towards the Longhorns in match play, however seeing Brink towards Audi Crooks can be enjoyable.

Don’t sleep on Tennessee, as Rickea Jackson got here on through the second half of the season and regarded just like the participant we anticipated to see. She’s going to shine within the WNBA, however not earlier than placing on a present within the match. Tennessee vs. Stanford within the Candy 16? Sure, please.

Gonzaga has an amazing Spherical 1 draw, however will face a problem towards Utah within the second spherical.

This nonetheless looks like Stanford’s area to lose.

(Illustration: Sean Reilly / The Athletic; Pictures of JuJu Watkins, Paige Bueckers and Hannah Hidalgo: Brian Rothmuller / Icon Sportswire by way of Getty Photos, G Fiume / Getty Photos, Joseph Weiser / Icon Sportswire by way of Getty Photos)

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