This Week’s Can’t Miss NCAA Women’s Basketball Games
As the NCAA Women’s Basketball season heats up, fans are in for another week of intense matchups and standout performances. Whether you're following the top-ranked teams or keeping an eye on rising contenders, this week offers several must-watch games that will shape the landscape of the tournament. From powerhouse programs to under-the-radar squads, each game presents an opportunity for teams to make a statement. With so much at stake, fans won’t want to miss a single moment of the action. Here’s a look at the most anticipated matchups that are must-see!
Michigan State vs. Maryland
This Sunday marks the first encounter between Maryland and Michigan State in the 2024-2025 season. Both teams hold spots in the top 25, with Michigan State ranked #19 and Maryland at number eight. The Maryland Terrapins are powered by a trio of guards: Kaylene Smikle, Saylor Poffenbarger, and Shyanne Sellers. For the Michigan State Spartans, Julia Ayrault shines with an average of 16.6 points per game, while Grace Vanslooten leads the team with 7.7 rebounds per game. When comparing overall performance, both teams are neck and neck in points scored, rebounds, and assists. However, the Terrapins lag in steals and blocks with averages of 7.5 and 3.7, whereas the Spartans excel with 14.5 steals and 5.8 blocks per game. Despite this, turnovers remain close between the teams. Their shooting percentages are nearly identical, whether in the paint, beyond the arc, or at the free-throw line. Ultimately, this game will be decided by which team can effectively tighten their defense and capitalize on offensive opportunities.
Michigan vs. USC
Sunday night will feature late-night basketball action as Michigan faces the University of Southern California. USC is riding high after a huge victory over the University of Connecticut, showing they're more prepared than ever to dominate the division. Both the Trojans and the Michigan Wolverines are in a prime position for a major win. USC’s only loss this season was to Notre Dame in late November. Since then, they have been dominant in every game, with the exception of a narrow two-point win against UConn. All eyes will be on JuJu Watkins, who has scored in double figures in every game this season and ranks third in the nation for points per game. Michigan is also coming off a big win, having defeated Akron by 41 points, with senior guard Greta Kampschroeder leading the charge. USC will need to focus its defense on several key players, including freshmen Olivia Olson and Syla Swords. Olson is averaging 15.7 points per game, making her a significant offensive threat. Additionally, Swords, who is shooting an impressive 92.3% from the free-throw line, will need to be kept at bay to avoid giving away easy points. Last week, the Trojans made it crystal clear that they were in it to win it until the very last second of the game. Michigan will have a tough task ahead in trying to stop them.
Nebraska vs. UCLA
This weekend, the Nebraska Cornhuskers will be heading to face the number one-ranked UCLA Bruins. The Bruins have had a flawless season, winning all 12 of their games and aiming for their 13th victory this weekend. Junior Lauren Betts leads the Bruins with nearly 20 points per game, boasting an impressive 63% field goal percentage. On the other side, Nebraska’s center, Alexis Markowski, will be a formidable presence in the paint. In their last game against Georgia Tech, Markowski led with 20 points and 10 rebounds, though it wasn't enough for a victory. Given UCLA's current winning streak, they are heavily favored to defeat Nebraska. Ensuring opportunities for their leading scorer and effectively shutting down Markowski will be crucial for the Bruins to maintain their successful run. Can the Cornhuskers pull off a Christmas miracle and topple UCLA, or will the Bruins extend their winning streak?
Wofford vs. South Carolina
The reigning champions, South Carolina, are set to host the Wofford Terriers at home. Wofford, coming off two losses, is gearing up for what might be their toughest challenge yet against the Gamecocks. Two players to watch in this matchup include Te-Hina Paopao and Rachael Rose, both of whom have been consistently scoring in double figures. Wofford has several tall players, such as Evangelia Paulk, Queen Ikhiuwu, and Mia Flor, who can match the height of South Carolina's forwards. It will be interesting to see how these players fare against Chloe Kitts, Ashlyn Watkins, and Sania Feagin. Focusing on defense and capitalizing on Wofford's turnovers will be beneficial, as the Terriers average 9.8 steals and 1.7 blocks per game compared to the Gamecocks' 11 steals and 5.7 blocks. For Wofford to have a shot at victory, they must confront South Carolina's aggressive tactics head-on. This means not shying away from driving into the paint and focusing on neutralizing South Carolina's top players on the court. Their success hinges on their ability to handle physical play and disrupt South Carolina's rhythm. With analysts predicting a landslide victory for South Carolina, Wofford has a lot to contend with. Every player will need to step up if they hope to defy the odds and pull off an upset.
Albany vs. LSU
Currently undefeated with a 14-0 record, the LSU Tigers are aiming to maintain their perfect streak as they face off against the University of Albany. In her fourth year, Flau'jae Johnson has established herself as a top scorer for LSU, averaging 20.9 points per game and leading the team in half of their matches this season. Additionally, Aneesah Morrow has been a key player, averaging 18.3 points per game and leading the NCAA with 14 rebounds per game. Both players have been crucial to LSU's success this season. For the Great Danes, Kayla Cooper is the driving force, leading the team in points, rebounds, and assists. Her all-around performance has been essential. With LSU averaging an impressive 93.3 points per game compared to Albany's 68.5, it's clear that containing LSU's shooters will be crucial for Albany's chances of securing a win. LSU has guards Mikaylah Williams and Kailyn Gilbert both in double-digits alongside Johnson and Morrow. For the Great Danes, Lilly Phillips and Jessica Tomasetti have been key contributors this season as well. Albany has been more effective from behind the three-point line, while LSU has shown stronger performance in field goal shooting. On Sunday, Albany's defense will be put to the test, as the Tigers maintain an average of 11 steals and nearly five blocks. Despite Albany's slightly better ball handling, which could be vital, LSU's dominance on both ends of the court poses a significant threat. The game will likely hinge on defense and ball handling, setting the stage for what appears to be another victory for the Tigers.
