Early Season Surprises and Dominant Performances Define Opening Month of Women’s NCAA Basketball
The first month of the women’s college basketball season has delivered a compelling mix of expected contenders solidifying their positions and emerging teams signaling their potential for a breakout year. several programs have distinguished themselves with impressive victories and standout individual performances, setting the stage for a competitive conference season.
This early stretch provides a crucial first look at team dynamics and player growth before the intensity of conference play begins. The shifting landscape of power-highlighted by key wins and the rise of previously unranked teams-suggests a season of unpredictable outcomes and a possibly wide-open race for the national championship. Here are five key takeaways from the opening month:
1. Iowa state Announces Itself as a National Threat
Iowa State delivered a statement win on sunday, defeating Indiana 106-95 in the championship game of the Coconut Hoops Blue Heron Division in fort Myers, Florida.The victory was fueled by a career-high 47-point performance from junior center Audi Crooks, who previously set the school record with 43 points against Valparaiso on November 12. This decisive win positions the Cyclones as a team to watch as they prepare to host No. 12 Iowa on December 10.
2. TCU’s Donovyn Hunter is a Rising Star
Transfer guard Donovyn Hunter is quickly becoming a focal point for TCU. After beginning her collegiate career at Oregon State, Hunter is averaging 13.9 points per game and has connected on 22 of her 50 three-point attempts, demonstrating her scoring prowess and shooting range. Her contributions are vital as the Lady Frogs navigate a challenging Big 12 Conference.
3. Big 12 Depth beyond the Top Teams
The Big 12 boasts considerable strength beyond its traditionally dominant programs. No. 14 Baylor and No. 24 Oklahoma State each hold a single loss and are poised to contend for the conference title. No. 25 West Virginia, however, is likely to drop from the rankings following a recent defeat to villanova, illustrating the conference’s competitive balance.
4. Unbeatens Face upcoming Tests
Texas Tech, Arizona State, and Arizona remain undefeated as the calendar turns to December. While these teams have enjoyed early success, the true measure of their capabilities will come as they enter conference play and face tougher competition. Their performances in the coming weeks will reveal whether they can sustain their winning momentum.
5. Early Season Losses Signal Potential Ranking Shifts
West Virginia’s loss to Villanova serves as a reminder of the volatility of early-season rankings. The Mountaineers’ likely departure from the Top 25 underscores the importance of consistent performance and the potential for rapid shifts in the national landscape as teams navigate their non-conference schedules and prepare for the rigors of conference competition.
