2025 Women’s NCAA Tournament: Day 1 Recap
Day 1 of the 2025 Women’s NCAA Tournament has concluded, showcasing a series of dominant performances from higher-seeded teams. With only one lower-seeded squad advancing, we delve into the highlights of Friday’s games and outline the upcoming matchups.
Game Results and Insights
UCLA 84, Southern 46
UCLA showcased their depth against Southern, with six players scoring in double digits and a strong bench tallying 28 points. Star player Lauren Betts led the Bruins with 14 points, alongside 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks, creating a formidable presence in the paint against the undersized Jaguars.
Next Up: UCLA is set to meet Richmond in the second round, where they will face a more formidable challenge. Coach Cori Close emphasizes the importance of addressing any game shortcomings as they pursue their championship aspirations.
Duke 86, Lehigh 25
Duke’s defense came out strong, limiting Lehigh to the second-lowest point total in NCAA tournament history. They contested nearly every shot in the first half and prevented scoring in crucial stretches, racking up turnovers and showcasing defensive prowess.
Next Up: The Blue Devils will contend with Oregon, who pulled off an upset in their matchup. Duke’s ability to maintain their defensive intensity will be key as they advance.
Tennessee 101, South Florida 66
Tennessee lit up the scoreboard with 16 three-pointers, led by a balanced effort that saw eight players convert from beyond the arc. Their defense was equally suffocating, forcing 24 turnovers and dominating the flow of the game.
Next Up: The Lady Vols will take on Ohio State, another fast-paced team, making for a highly anticipated matchup as they vie for a spot in the Sweet 16.
Richmond 74, Georgia Tech 49
Richmond’s Maggie Doogan stole the show with a 30-point, 15-rebound performance, guiding the Spiders to a convincing victory. Their defense restricted Georgia Tech to a mere 49 points while controlling the game from start to finish.
Next Up: They will face the top-seeded UCLA Bruins, posing a significant challenge and an opportunity for Richmond to showcase their skills.
Oregon 77, Vanderbilt 73 (OT)
Oregon secured a thrilling overtime victory against Vanderbilt, overcoming a substantial lead and late-game struggles. Strong defensive plays and timely scoring in overtime solidified their first NCAA tournament win since 2021.
Next Up: The Ducks will go head-to-head with Duke in a rematch filled with potential for upsets, as they look to capitalize on the momentum from their close win.
Ole Miss 83, Ball State 65
After a shaky start, Ole Miss kicked into gear, relying on their renowned defense to outplay Ball State. Their structured press combined with offensive effectiveness led to a comfortable win, showcasing their depth and skill.
Next Up: The Rebels are gearing up for a clash with Baylor, needing to maintain their defensive intensity as they push for advancement.
Louisville 63, Nebraska 58
In a hard-fought battle, Louisville’s senior Jayda Curry took charge late in the game, delivering crucial baskets amid injury struggles. The team narrowly secured their spot in the next round through tenacity and experience.
Next Up: Louisville faces TCU, where the stakes are raised, pitting them against a well-matched opponent.
Ohio State 71, Montana State 51
Ohio State demonstrated their defensive capabilities, forcing turnovers while gradually pulling away from Montana State. Despite some shooting inconsistencies, their performance in the paint provided a solid foundation for victory.
Next Up: The Buckeyes will square off against the winner of the Tennessee-USF matchup, aiming to maintain their home-court advantage.
Baylor 73, Grand Canyon 60
Baylor faced a spirited challenge from Grand Canyon but managed to secure a victory thanks to a strong fourth-quarter performance and solid defense that shut down the Lopes in crucial moments.
Next Up: Following this win, Baylor looks forward to competing against Ole Miss in what promises to be an exciting matchup.
South Carolina 108, Tennessee Tech 48
In a historic performance, South Carolina shattered records with a 60-point victory, showcasing their offensive and defensive strength. They scored efficiently while limiting Tennessee Tech’s scoring opportunities throughout the game.
Next Up: The Gamecocks will face Indiana in a highly anticipated rematch after last year’s competitive showdown in the tournament.
TCU 73, FDU 51
TCU overcame a rough start to emerge victorious against FDU, with an intensified defensive effort propelling them as the game progressed. Key contributions from senior players helped carry them to a comfortable win.
Next Up: TCU’s next challenge awaits against Louisville or Nebraska as they look to continue their tournament journey.
Kansas State 85, Fairfield 41
Kansas State took advantage of their size and athleticism against Fairfield, firmly controlling the game and displaying their potential for deeper tournament runs.
Next Up: The Wildcats prepare for a challenge against Kentucky, with their formidable roster posing strong threats throughout the tournament.
Notre Dame 106, Stephen F. Austin 54
Notre Dame delivered an impressive performance, becoming the first non-number one seed to surpass 100 points in an NCAA tournament game. With contributions from multiple players, they demonstrated their offensive depth.
Next Up: The Fighting Irish will face Michigan, presenting an opportunity to further their championship aspirations.
Indiana 76, Utah 68
Indiana secured a hard-fought victory by leveraging their strong 2-point shooting and free-throw success. As they faced a resilient Utah team, the Hoosiers showcased their defensive tenacity, ultimately clinching the win.
Next Up: They will take on South Carolina in what promises to be an exhilarating match of two competitive programs.
Kentucky 79, Liberty 78
Kentucky managed to hold on to a slim lead against Liberty, thanks in large part to a standout performance from Georgia Amoore, who scored 34 points. Their ability to weather pressure will need refinement as they advance.
Next Up: The Wildcats look to improve their consistency as they face off against Kansas State in a crucial second-round matchup.
Michigan 80, Iowa State 74
Michigan’s second-half resurgence, fueled by a stellar performance from Jordan Hobbs, propelled them past Iowa State. The Wolverines’ balanced scoring proved effective in overcoming early deficits.
Next Up: They will encounter Notre Dame, setting the stage for a compelling contest.
As the tournament progresses, the excitement builds. Fans and teams alike look forward to the next round, where the stakes will continue to rise in pursuit of the championship.