South Carolina and UConn Top 2026-27 Women's Basketball Preseason Rankings

1. South Carolina

Under Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks boast a championship-ready roster with returning players, significant transfer portal additions, and the return of Chloe Kitts. The team showcases depth, versatility, size, and valuable experience.

2. UConn

Although Azzi Fudd is absent, Geno Auriemma's winning system remains intact. The Huskies retain most of their roster, spearheaded by reigning National Player of the Year, Sarah Strong.

3. Southern California

Juju Watkins leads a strong Trojans lineup that includes a more seasoned Jazzy Davidson and the top recruiting class in the nation, putting USC in a prime position for a championship run.

4. Duke

Duke retains much of its Elite Eight roster from the previous year. With a revamped backcourt led by Toby Fournier and newcomer Aaliyah Crump joining the mix, fans are eager to see the team's development under coach Kara Lawson.

5. Michigan

The Wolverines will navigate the season without Brooke Quarles-Daniels. However, a young core enters their third year of familiarity, bringing experience to the squad.

6. LSU

Baton Rouge remains a hub for exciting basketball with a new triumvirate: Mikaylah Williams, MiLaysia Fulwiley, and Jada Williams.

7. Texas

With Madison Booker at the helm, the Longhorns look strong. After stepping up as a freshman, she aims to lead her team in her senior year as their sole returning starter.

8. Louisville

Jeff Walz anticipates a successful season with a solid foundation, particularly due to the dynamic playmaking abilities of Zam Jones.

9. Vanderbilt

Shea Ralph, the reigning Coach of the Year, hopes to build on last season's historic Sweet 16 run with an exciting backcourt led by Aubrey Galvan and the nation’s leading scorer, Mikayla Blakes.

10. Iowa

The Hawkeyes are adding key players like Dani Carnegie and Chit-Chat Wright to bolster their explosive backcourt, alongside the No. 6 recruit joining Ava Heiden in the front court.

Teams of interest include UCLA, the defending national champions, and Oklahoma State, with questions about the chemistry between Liv McGill and Audi Crooks. Notre Dame's challenge will be integrating Hannah Hidalgo with its supporting cast, while Ole Miss has talent that needs to gel quickly.