The Updated Women's AP Poll: A Week of Action and Shifts

Nov 18, 2024 at 5:08 PM
After an exhilarating second week in the sport, the Women's AP Poll has witnessed significant changes. This includes several upsets that have led to a reshuffling within the Top 25. Although it's early in the season, there are already teams emerging at the top and plenty of time for more fluctuations as non-conference play continues.

South Carolina: The Poll Topper

South Carolina remains firmly at the top of the AP Poll. Their dominance has been on full display, with convincing victories over ECU by 51 points on Sunday and Coppin State earlier in the week. Next week, they must maintain their momentum against improving competition, including rival Clemson. After that, they are gearing up for a showdown with UCLA.The team's consistent performance and ability to handle opponents have solidified their position at the summit. Their offensive and defensive strategies have worked in harmony, allowing them to dictate the pace of the game and come out on top.

UConn: The Standout

UConn had only one game since the last AP Poll was released but made it count by defeating a ranked North Carolina team by 11 points. Paige Bueckers was the star of the game, scoring 29 points. In the upcoming week, UConn faces Fairleigh Dickinson, where they are expected to be heavy favorites. This gives them an opportunity to continue their winning streak and stay at the top of the poll.The team's chemistry and individual talent have been key factors in their success. Their coaching staff has instilled a winning mentality, and the players have responded with determination and skill.

USC Trojans: The Winning Streak

The USC Trojans had a successful week, winning two games against non-conference opponents. The wins over Cal State Northridge were by a wide margin of 85 points, showcasing their superiority. Next week, they have a significant game against another AP Top-10 team, Notre Dame.The Trojans' offensive firepower and defensive tenacity have been on full display. Their players have been working hard in practice to improve their skills and strategies, and it has paid off on the court.

Texas: The High-Ranked Team

Texas continued its winning streak with two 30-point wins. This has not come as a surprise as the Longhorns are a talented team with a balanced offensive scoring output. Next week, they are scheduled to continue non-conference play with two more games, where they are expected to be heavy favorites.The team's coaching staff has done an excellent job of developing the players' skills and creating a winning culture. Their players have shown great teamwork and determination on the court.

UCLA Bruins: The Rising Force

The UCLA Bruins had a dominant week, beating both Pepperdine and Arkansas. The wins were not close, and the Bruins look like a team that can beat anyone in the country. Next week, they have a chance to make a big statement as they prepare for a massive game against South Carolina.The Bruins' offensive and defensive strategies have been working well together, allowing them to control the game and come out on top. Their players have been playing with confidence and aggression, which has been a key factor in their success.

Notre Dame: The Offensive Powerhouse

To this point, Notre Dame has had one of the best offenses in the country, scoring at least 91 points in every game this season. Their non-conference wins last week were impressive, and they are now preparing to face USC in a highly anticipated game.The Irish's offensive prowess is a result of their talented players and coaching staff. They have a deep bench and are able to rotate players effectively, keeping their offense fresh and dangerous.

LSU Tigers: The Consistent Winners

The LSU Tigers kept winning last week, grabbing a pair of non-conference wins. Although none of their wins have been against a power conference opponent, they have been impressive nonetheless. Their non-conference slate continues with two more games against mid-majors.The Tigers' coaching staff has been focusing on improving the team's fundamentals and game management. Their players have been responding well, showing great discipline and determination on the court.

Iowa State: The Potential Contender

Coming into the season, Iowa State looked poised to make noise in the Big 12. With Texas and Oklahoma leaving, the path seems wide open for the Cyclones. So far, they have lived up to the expectations, remaining unbeaten and ranked in the AP Poll.The Cyclones' coaching staff has been emphasizing discipline and teamwork, and the players have been buying into the system. Their ability to handle pressure and perform well in close games has been a key factor in their success.

Oklahoma Sooners: The Top-10 Contender

The Oklahoma Sooners are still ranked in the Top 10 after convincingly winning another game. Their performance against Western Carolina was impressive, with Raegan Beers scoring 27 points. This week, they have two more games against non-conference opponents and will face tough competition.The Sooners' coaching staff has been working on improving the team's overall game and addressing areas for improvement. Their players have been responding well, showing great determination and competitiveness on the court.

Kansas State: The Big-12 Hopeful

Similarly to Iowa State, Kansas State believes it can make a deep run in the Big 12. Their non-conference slate has been going well so far, and they are now preparing for a big test against Duke.The Wildcats' coaching staff has been focusing on developing the players' skills and creating a winning mentality. Their players have been working hard in practice and are ready to take on the challenges ahead.

Rest of AP Top 25 Poll

11. Maryland12. Ohio State13. West Virginia14. Duke15. Kentucky16. North Carolina17. Ole Miss18. Baylor19. TCU20. NC State21. Nebraska22. Illinois23. Oregon24. Alabama25. Louisville