March Madness Upset Alert: Expert Predictions for the Women’s NCAA Tournament
The exhilarating chaos of March Madness is upon us, and with it comes the thrilling prospect of bracket-busting upsets. Experts across the USA TODAY Sports Network have analyzed the matchups and identified several potential Cinderella stories ready to emerge in the first round of the Women’s NCAA Tournament. As the 16-game slate unfolds, keep an eye on these underdogs poised to topple higher-seeded opponents.
No. 10 Harvard vs. No. 7 Michigan State: A Crimson Uprising?
Harvard, a team brimming with talent, is pegged as a strong contender to upset Michigan State. The Crimson’s hopes rest largely on the shoulders of Harmoni Turner, a dynamic player entering the tournament in scorching form. Her exceptional scoring prowess, highlighted by a remarkable 68-point performance in the Ivy League Tournament, makes her a formidable threat that few teams can effectively contain.
According to Cydney Henderson of USA TODAY, Harvard’s potential for an upset lies in Turner’s exceptional abilities and her supporting cast that compliments her ability to score at will. She adds that it is a matter of time before Turner establishes herself as a household name.
Nancy Armour of USA TODAY echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that Harvard’s offensive arsenal extends beyond Turner. With other players stepping up their game, the Crimson present a multifaceted challenge for Michigan State. The combined offensive output, complimented by a stifling defense, can allow Harvard to win.
No. 10 South Dakota State vs. No. 7 Oklahoma State: Jackrabbits on the Hunt
South Dakota State is a team known for its disciplined play and refusal to make unforced errors. The Jackrabbits are spearheaded by Brooklyn Meyer, a versatile player who excels in all facets of the game. Paired with Haleigh Timmer and Paige Meyer, South Dakota State boasts a potent scoring trio capable of overwhelming opponents.
Cory Diaz of The Daily Advertiser highlights the Jackrabbits’ well-rounded roster and ability to consistently put points on the board. Meyer adds that the team is a force to be reckoned with and could shock the world.
No. 13 Grand Canyon vs. No. 4 Baylor: Lopes Aim for Texas-Sized Upset
Grand Canyon enters the tournament with an impressive 32-2 record, demonstrating their knack for winning. While facing Baylor on their home court presents a formidable challenge, the Lopes have already proven their mettle with two victories over Power Six conference teams this season.
Maxwell Donaldson of the Gadsden Times underscores Grand Canyon’s winning pedigree and their confidence in the face of adversity. The team has the ability to score from anywhere and will create matchup problems for the Bears.
Jordan Mendoza of USA TODAY emphasizes Grand Canyon’s potent offense, particularly their proficiency from beyond the arc. With their ability to "make it rain" from 3-point range, the Lopes could outpace Baylor and secure an upset victory.
No. 12 Fairfield vs. No. 5 Kansas State: Stags Ready to Leap
Fairfield, under the guidance of coach Carly Thibault-DuDonis, has established itself as an elite mid-major program. The Stags possess the talent and experience to compete with higher-ranked teams. Kansas State’s center, Ayoka Lee, is just returning from injury, which could give Fairfield an advantage in the frontcourt.
Cora Hall of the Knoxville News Sentinel points to Thibault-DuDonis’ success in building a formidable program at Fairfield. She suggests that with Lee’s uncertain condition, the Stags are well-positioned to capitalize and secure a memorable upset.
No. 11 Murray State vs. No. 6 Iowa: Racers Aim to Outpace Hawkeyes
Murray State boasts one of the most prolific offenses in college basketball, with an exceptional ability to shoot the 3-pointer. Iowa, on the other hand, has struggled to defend the perimeter, making this matchup a potential recipe for an upset.
Mike Sykes of For The Win believes that Katelyn Young is primed for a standout performance. With Iowa’s defensive vulnerabilities, the Racers could exploit their scoring prowess and secure a surprising victory.
No. 13 Norfolk State vs. No. 4 Maryland: Spartans Target Terrapins
Norfolk State is armed with Diamond Johnson, a highly skilled and underrated two-way point guard. Johnson, coupled with double-double machine Kierra Wheeler and the Spartans’ deep bench, could prove to be a winning combination against an injury-plagued Maryland team.
Lulu Kesin of Greenville News highlights Johnson’s exceptional talent and the Spartans’ overall depth, which could overwhelm a weakened Maryland squad.
Meghan Hall of For The Win echoes this sentiment, noting that Maryland’s injury woes have cast doubt on their ability to advance deep into the tournament. Hall expects Johnson and the Spartans to capitalize on the Terrapins’ vulnerability and deliver a bracket-busting upset.
No. 11 Iowa State vs. No. 6 Michigan: Crooks Could Cook Wolverines
Iowa State center Audi Crooks presents a significant matchup problem for Michigan, a team lacking size in the frontcourt. Crooks’ ability to dominate inside could lead to a high-scoring performance, reminiscent of her 40-point outburst against Maryland last year.
Jenna Ortiz of the Arizona Republic anticipates Crooks to exploit Michigan’s undersized lineup and control the paint. She believes that Crooks’ presence could be the deciding factor in an Iowa State upset.
These are just a few of the potential upsets that could unfold during the first round of the Women’s NCAA Tournament. With competitive matchups and a wealth of talented players, expect the unexpected as teams battle for a chance to advance. Be sure to tune into the ESPN family of networks, including ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and ESPNews, to catch all the action. The stage is set for March Madness magic.
