Women’s College Basketball Season Kicks Off: Key Storylines to Watch

UPDATE: The women’s college basketball season officially started this week, and the spotlight is on No. 15 Notre Dame as they aim for a deeper run in the NCAA Tournament. With powerhouse teams facing significant changes, here are the top storylines that fans must watch closely.

1. Can Hannah Hidalgo Propel Notre Dame to New Heights?
The Irish are looking to break a pattern of disappointment after four consecutive Sweet 16 exits under coach Niele Ivey, including a 71-62 defeat to TCU last season. With the roster undergoing a major overhaul, star guard Olivia Miles and forward Kate Koval have transferred, leaving the team with new faces. However, Hannah Hidalgo, a preseason All-American and ACC Player of the Year, returns after averaging 23.8 points last season. The Irish face tough challenges ahead, including matchups against ranked opponents like No. 13 Michigan on November 15 and No. 12 Mississippi on December 4. Ivey maintains the expectation remains high. “Notre Dame is the standard,” she stated firmly.

2. Will Illinois’ Young Squad Rise to the NCAA Challenge?
After a strong showing in the NCAA Tournament last season, Illinois enters with a youthful squad as they aim to return to the big dance. Coach Shauna Green lost five key seniors, including top scorer Kendall Bostic. The team’s average age is just 19.91, making their upcoming season a question of growth and resilience. Junior guards Gretchen Dolan and Jasmine Brown-Hagger will need to step up alongside promising freshmen like Ms. Basketball of Illinois, Destiny Jackson. “They’re so coachable,” Green remarked, emphasizing the excitement and potential of her young team.

3. How Will Northwestern Fare Under Coach Joe McKeown’s Final Season?
As coach Joe McKeown prepares to retire after this season, Northwestern aims to send him off with a strong performance. The Wildcats have struggled in recent years, finishing with nine wins in each of the last three seasons. Senior forward Grace Sullivan, averaging 10.1 points last season, is expected to lead the team, supported by sophomore Tayla Thomas. McKeown has high hopes for his players, stating, “It’s fun to watch,” regarding their teamwork and potential.

4. Can Jill Pizzotti Step Up as DePaul’s New Coach?
After the retirement of longtime coach Doug Bruno, DePaul has appointed Jill Pizzotti as head coach. Pizzotti, who previously served as interim head coach, is tasked with revitalizing a program that has seen declining fortunes. With key injuries affecting players like guard Kate Clarke, the Blue Demons are focusing on integrating new talent, including six transfers. Pizzotti aims for a top-four finish in the Big East, stating, “We want to be in the conversation for postseason play.”

5. Which Team Will Dominate the Big Ten?
The Big Ten is a powerhouse this season with six teams in the preseason AP Top 25, including No. 3 UCLA and No. 10 Maryland. UCLA’s senior center Lauren Betts is a standout, having averaged 20.2 points last season. Coach Cori Close is optimistic about Betts’ impact and expects great things from senior guard Kiki Rice, who is looking to bounce back after shoulder surgery. With key injuries affecting rival teams, the Bruins are poised to make a significant impact.

As the season unfolds, these storylines will keep fans engaged and eager for updates. The next few weeks will be crucial, with big matchups on the horizon that will set the tone for the rest of the season. Stay tuned for the latest developments in women’s college basketball!