INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – March Madness is officially here as the NCAA Tournament fields have been finalized in both men’s and women’s basketball. Fans can look forward to an exciting tournament as the women’s field of 68 teams is packed with talent and potential for upsets. This year, there is no clear-cut favorite, unlike last season where South Carolina was the dominant force entering the tournament undefeated. The top four seeds in the women’s bracket are UCLA, South Carolina, Texas, and USC, with UCLA securing the top overall seed.
Historically, No. 1 seeds have been successful in the NCAA Women’s Tournament, winning the title 23 times since the tournament expanded in 1994. However, No. 2 seeds have also made their mark, with four championship wins, including UConn, the highly decorated program with 11 national titles. Coaching legend Geno Auriemma has led the Huskies to 15 of the last 16 Final Fours, showcasing the team’s consistent success in the tournament.
The tournament kicked off with two First Four games on Wednesday night, where Iowa State and Southern emerged victorious. Iowa State, led by standout player Audi Crooks, will face Michigan in the next round, while Southern will take on UCLA. The First Four concluded on Thursday with Columbia and William & Mary earning their spots in the Round of 64. Columbia secured a No. 11 seed after defeating Washington, setting up a matchup against West Virginia. On the other hand, William & Mary made history by becoming the first sub-.500 team to win a game in NCAA Tournament history, earning a showdown with No. 1 seed Texas.
As the tournament progresses, fans can stay updated on all the action by following CBS Sports for the latest news, results, and insights. Bracket pools are a popular way to engage with friends and family during March Madness, so be sure to join the fun by participating in Bracket Games to compete against others or create your own group for a friendly competition. March Madness is always full of surprises and memorable moments, making it a must-watch event for basketball fans everywhere.