NCAA Women’s Tournament: Eden Laase’s Sweet Sixteen Bracket Picks & Virginia’s Run

Virginia’s stunning double-overtime victory over Iowa in the first round of the NCAA Women’s Tournament has prompted a reevaluation of the bracket, according to Hoops HQ’s Eden Laase.

Laase, Hoops HQ’s Contributing Women’s Editor, updated her bracket predictions on March 24th, acknowledging the unexpected success of the No. 10 seeded Cavaliers. The upset, a 75-73 win, marked Virginia’s first Sweet Sixteen appearance since 2000. Iowa was previously ranked No. 2 in the bracket.

The updated bracket still favors UConn, UCLA, South Carolina, and Texas as the No. 1 seeds, as initially predicted on March 16th. Laase noted that these four teams have “dominated all season” and remain strong contenders for the Final Four. However, Virginia’s performance has introduced a new element of uncertainty.

Laase’s bracket forecasts UConn advancing from the Fort Worth Regional, facing opponents including UT San Antonio, Iowa State, and Syracuse. The Sacramento Regional is projected to be won by South Carolina, overcoming challenges from teams like Southern Jaguars/Samford Bulldogs, Clemson, and USC Trojans. UConn and South Carolina are then projected to meet in the Championship game in Phoenix, where UConn is favored.

The Sweet Sixteen matchups include UConn against UTSA, UCLA against Washington, South Carolina against Michigan State, and Texas against Virginia. Laase’s analysis highlights the potential for further upsets, noting that Virginia’s win demonstrates the unpredictable nature of the tournament.

According to a power ranking released March 24th, UConn stands out for its impeccable defense, holding opponents to 32.8 percent shooting and forcing 19 turnovers in their 98-45 win over Syracuse. UCLA’s strategy of utilizing center Lauren Betts is likewise proving effective.

The updated bracket also includes Notre Dame, which upset Ohio State, and other teams advancing to the Sweet Sixteen, including Illinois, Vanderbilt, and Howard.