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What to Know About Women’s Basketball Today
1. West Virginia and TCU Deliver Weekend Upsets 😲
It was a good weekend for those who love underdog stories. On Friday, West Virginia stunned No. 15 Duke 57-49, even after playing the entire second half with only five available players. Then on Sunday, No. 17 TCU took down No. 10 NC State 69-59, marking the Horned Frogs’ first road win over a ranked nonconference team since 2011. (CBS Sports)
WHY IT MATTERS: It’s early, but upsets like these help shape teams moving forward. Winners pick up momentum and confidence, while the teams that fall short get a chance to reassess and respond. And for us fans, these underdog wins deliver the drama and unpredictability we love about women’s college basketball.
2. Maryland Freshman Lea Bartelme Out for the Season 🩼
A tough blow for the Maryland Terrapins and one of their standout freshmen. Lea Bartelme will miss the remainder of the 2025–26 season after tearing her ACL. Before the injury, she had started all four games for the undefeated No. 9 Terps, averaging 6.8 points, 3.8 assists, and shooting 42.9% from three. (ESPN)
WHY IT MATTERS: This is a meaningful loss for Maryland. Bartelme arrived from Slovenia as one of the most poised young point guards in the freshman class and was already appearing on early WNBA draft boards before choosing college. Her feel for the game and decision-making gave Maryland head coach Brenda Frese a major edge. With Maryland looking to build on last season’s Sweet 16 run, adjusting without Bartelme becomes a major challenge.
3. Sarah Strong Is Playing Like the Best in America 😤
UConn sophomore Sarah Strong delivered a career performance in Sunday’s win over Ohio State: 29 points (tying her career high), 13 rebounds, 7 assists, 5 steals, and 3 blocks. (Associated Press)
WHY IT MATTERS: The Huskies look locked in. They’ve led by at least 20 points in every victory this season, and Strong has been at the center of it. She’s playing like an early National Player of the Year favorite: versatile and in total command for a 19-year-old. If she keeps this up, UConn’s repeat hopes look very real.
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OVERTIME ⏱️
Two Vets Return: Mercedes Russell and Sequoia Holmes have officially signed on for AU Pro Basketball’s 2026 season.
The Real SC: No. 2 South Carolina topped No. 8 USC 69-52 in a top-10 showdown on Saturday.
In the Rafters: Natasha Howard had her No. 33 jersey retired at Florida State this weekend.
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