Southern California faced a disappointing setback this past Sunday, resulting in their second loss of the season and a drop to seventh place in the latest Top 25 women’s basketball poll. Once ranked fourth, the Trojans were defeated by the Iowa Hawkeyes, who won the match 76-69, coinciding with the ceremony to retire star player Caitlin Clark’s jersey. USC’s other defeat this season was a home loss to Notre Dame back in November.
In the current rankings, UCLA, South Carolina, and Notre Dame hold onto the top three positions. The Bruins captured all 32 first-place votes from the media panel, taking over the spot that had previously belonged to South Carolina. UCLA maintained its undefeated status by defeating Minnesota with a score of 79-53 in their only game last week. Meanwhile, South Carolina secured victories against then-No. 18 Tennessee and Auburn, celebrated by retiring the jersey of their former standout player, A’ja Wilson, during the latter game.
Texas, UConn, and LSU each advanced one position in the rankings, now sitting just behind Notre Dame. Ohio State, TCU, and Duke remained firmly positioned from eighth to tenth place.
Kentucky, ranked 11th, achieved its highest ranking in four years, aided by first-year coach Kenny Brooks. The Wildcats, sporting a record of 19-2, last saw this level of recognition in 2021. They are currently enjoying a bye week but will soon navigate a demanding SEC schedule with upcoming contests against formidable opponents, including South Carolina, LSU, Texas, and Tennessee. Their two losses this season were against North Carolina on December 5 and Texas A&M on January 23.
The Southeastern Conference continues to lead with eight ranked teams, while the ACC follows with seven. The Big Ten has five representatives in the rankings, the Big 12 has four, and the Big East has one.
As for notable upcoming matchups, No. 9 TCU will be facing off against No. 12 Kansas State on Wednesday, where first place in the Big 12 will be at stake, with both teams currently holding a 9-1 conference record. On Thursday, No. 5 UConn will visit No. 19 Tennessee, rekindling a historic rivalry; it will be the first clash against Lady Vols coach Kim Caldwell, known for her pressing style. Sunday will see No. 2 South Carolina take on No. 4 Texas, as the Longhorns aim to redeem themselves following a 17-point loss to the Gamecocks during their previous match in Columbia last month.
