As the women's college basketball season gears up, the AP Top 25 preseason poll showcases familiar powerhouses. South Carolina Gamecocks reign supreme as they secure the No. 1 spot for the fifth time in seven years, garnering 23 out of 31 first-place votes. Despite uncertainties at point guard, the return of Tessa Johnson and Joyce Edwards, alongside key additions like Texas transfer Jordan Lee and freshman Jerzy Robinson, positions South Carolina as a formidable contender.

Following closely is UConn, ranked No. 2 after a strong 25th Final Four appearance. Although they lost Azzi Fudd to the WNBA, the return of Sarah Strong, the 2025-26 National Player of the Year, offers promise for another stellar season under coach Geno Auriemma.

At No. 3, USC looks to capitalize on the return of JuJu Watkins, who missed last season due to an ACL injury. She teams up with top recruits Jazzy Davidson and Saniyah Hall, pushing the Women of Troy toward their first national championship since 1984.

Duke secures the No. 4 spot, marking its highest preseason ranking since 2013, while Michigan rounds out the top five with its best-ever preseason ranking. Defending champions UCLA find themselves at No. 11, facing challenges after losing their starting five to the WNBA.

In transfer news, Oklahoma State emerges as a winner, landing standout transfers Audi Crooks and Liv McGill, earning them a No. 22 ranking.

The season officially tips off on Nov. 1 with an international matchup in Rome, featuring Notre Dame and Villanova. The excitement continues with marquee games in Paris, including Maryland versus South Carolina and Oklahoma against North Carolina.