With the start of women’s college basketball just around the corner, here are 13 of the best early-season nonconference matchups you should have fixed on your TV.
Aflac Oui Play — Nov. 4th, Opening day
Paris last year did not disappoint, and I don’t expect it to be anything short of amazing for round two of NCAA women’s basketball games being held on French soil. And this time around, double the fun!
I’m excited to see the frontcourt matchup between USC’s Kiki Iriafen and Ole Miss’ Madison Scott.
What a oui-k to announce a trip to Paris 🇫🇷👀
The Bruins will open 2024-25 against Louisville at the @aflac Oui-Play event! More info here ⤵️
🗞️: https://t.co/xB1FclXlKE #GoBruins pic.twitter.com/xwbMDzsqJa
— UCLA Women’s Basketball (@UCLAWBB) July 23, 2024
A clash of two iconic coaches, UCLA’s Cori Close and Louisville’s Jeff Walz looking to put on a masterclass of two different styles, both games could set us up for some early AP ranking implications.
Ally Tipoff in Charlotte — Nov. 10th
- South Carolina vs. NC State
A rematch of last year’s Final Four where we saw the Gamecocks advance to eventually become three-time national champions, both teams will be eager to establish dominance early in the season. Plus, NC State’s Saniya Rivers will face her former team.
Kentucky vs. Louisville — Nov. 16th
This in-state rivalry is always intense, with both programs boasting strong histories. Kentucky has been building a competitive squad, while Louisville consistently ranks among the elite. These games are often high-stakes, and the fierce local pride adds to the atmosphere.
USC vs. Notre Dame — Nov. 23rd
USC and Notre Dame both have rich traditions with rising stars in the game. This matchup features strong recruiting classes and dynamic players. With Notre Dame’s storied program and USC’s resurgence, expect a competitive game that will showcase March Madness vibes.
UCLA vs. South Carolina — Nov. 24th
UCLA and South Carolina are two powerhouses that have seen recent success. This matchup will highlight the tactical styles of both coaches — South Carolina’s Dawn Staley and Close — and of course some of the best athletes in the college game. The West Coast versus SEC clash always draws attention and will have significant implications for rankings.
South Carolina vs. Iowa State — Nov. 28th in Fort Myers
The defending champs will meet a young and hungry team who can match their level of physicality and size. Iowa State has made waves in recent seasons and will look to continue to prove that they can compete with the best of the best.
SEC/ACC Challenge — Dec. 5th
With both teams having a strong presence in the tournament landscape, this matchup promises to be a thrilling one. From elite guard play to juggernaut defenses, the blend of styles makes for an exciting game. Plus, fun guard play between Olivia Miles, Hannah Hidalgo, Madison Booker and Rori Harmon.
When I see this matchup, defense is the first thing that comes to mind. The coaching duel between Staley and Duke’s Kara Lawson — two standout players in the NCAA and WNBA who have quickly made their marks as head coaches — adds an exciting flare to this matchup.
Champions Class in Barclays Center — Dec. 7th
Two of the most respected coaches in the game in Walz and UConn’s Geno Auriemma, both have built two powerhouse programs. As if the clash of the Titans couldn’t be even more exciting, UConn-Louisville will face off in one of the most iconic arenas, making this a captivating matchup.
Iowa vs. Iowa State — Dec. 11th
The Cy-Hawk rivalry is pretty fierce in Iowa — talk about bragging rights! Both teams have passionate fan bases and talented rosters. The intensity and local pride make this game must-see television from the Big Ten and Big 12 foes.
Notre Dame vs. UConn — Dec. 12th
As two of the most prestigious programs in women’s college basketball, this rivalry is always a highlight when they clash. Both teams have a history of meeting in critical games, including the NCAA tournament. Last time they matched up, Hidalgo had an iconic standout game as a freshman to lead Notre Dame to a 25-point victory in front of UConn’s home crowd.
UConn vs. Iowa State — Dec. 17th, Hall of Fame showcase
Starpower doesn’t lack in this matchup with two of the biggest faces in the game – UConn’s Paige Bueckers and Iowa State’s Audi Crooks. Both programs have not shied away from creating a rigorous schedule to get prepared for March Madness. This will give both teams a great temperature check before heading into conference play and could have big AP ranking implications.
UConn vs. USC — Dec. 21st
A rematch of the Elite Eight that stopped USC’s historic run, both teams could be in the Final Four or potentially the championship game by the end of the 2024-25 season. This matchup is a tournament-caliber game that will draw national attention, with both teams looking to make a statement.
