Final Four Predictions for the 2025-2026 NCAA Women’s Basketball Season
As the 2025–26 NCAA women’s basketball season approaches, fans and analysts alike are beginning to speculate about which teams have the potential to make a deep run in March. With several key players from past seasons now in the WNBA, the national landscape is shifting, and a new wave of talent is set to take center stage. While it’s still early, a few programs have already emerged as strong contenders for the Final Four, while others may surprise fans as dark horse candidates. The strong contenders typically are the UConn Huskies, South Carolina Gamecocks, LSU Tigers, Texas Longhorns, UCLA Bruins, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and Stanford Cardinal.
One of the most consistent powerhouses in recent years, South Carolina, is once again positioned as a leading Final Four contender. Under head coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks continue to reload with elite talent. Guard MiLaysia Fulwiley is expected to take on a larger leadership role, and South Carolina’s depth, defense, and coaching experience make them a strong pick to reach the tournament’s final weekend. Another favorite is UConn. Combined with a deep supporting cast and a highly ranked recruiting class, UConn has both the talent and experience to compete for a national title—if they can stay healthy.
LSU is also a team to watch, as head coach Kim Mulkey continues to rebuild and reshape the roster through the transfer portal. With emerging stars like the incoming freshmen, Grace Knox, Zakiyah Johnson, and Divine Bourrage, and a group of experienced returners, LSU has the offensive firepower and athleticism to make another deep tournament run. USC rounds out the early list of top contenders, thanks to the continued rise of JuJu Watkins and a strong recruiting class that could make the Trojans a national force for the first time in decades. However, this upcoming season can change in an instant with any team, as injuries may occur. That is why injury prevention is key to starting a new season, so teams can stay consistent with achieving their goals.
Beyond the top contenders, several teams could surprise the viewers. Indiana, Virginia Tech, and Baylor each have enough talent and coaching stability to make unexpected runs in March. Meanwhile, questions remain about programs like Tennessee and Stanford, which are all looking to reassert themselves among the elite. While much can change between now and the start of the season, the early outlook for this season suggests a competitive and unpredictable road to the Final Four—and potentially, a new national champion. The 2025–26 season promises parity, star power, and plenty of surprises.
