March Madness Cinderella Watch: Seven Teams Primed for Upset Potential

The anticipation for the 2025 Women’s NCAA Tournament is already building, and with it, the perennial question of which underdog teams will rise to the occasion and orchestrate unforgettable Cinderella runs. The tournament is renowned for its unpredictable nature, and this year promises to be no different, with several programs perfectly positioned to defy expectations and leave their mark on the bracket. Our USA TODAY Sports Network experts have scoured the landscape of women’s college basketball, identifying seven potential Cinderella teams that could make a deep run and capture the hearts of fans nationwide.

Before we delve into the specific teams, it’s important to define what makes a true Cinderella story in the context of March Madness. It’s not simply about a lower-seeded team winning a single game. A genuine Cinderella run involves multiple upsets, a team exceeding all preseason predictions, and capturing a significant level of national attention due to their unexpected success. Factors contributing to a team’s Cinderella potential include experienced leadership, a star player capable of carrying the team, a unique strategic advantage (such as stifling defense or high-powered offense), and perhaps a favorable draw in the early rounds of the tournament.

The tournament action will be broadcast across the ESPN family of networks (ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and ESPNews), providing ample opportunity to witness these potential Cinderella stories unfold. Streaming options are also available, with Fubo offering a free trial for new subscribers. So, get ready to tune in and witness the magic of March.

Grand Canyon Lopes:

The Grand Canyon Lopes, boasting an impressive 32-2 record, enter the tournament with a wealth of experience and a rising star on the sidelines in coach Molly Miller. As Maxwell Donaldson of the Gadsden Times notes, Miller’s leadership has transformed the program. Jenna Ortiz of the Arizona Republic highlights the Lopes’ offensive firepower, pointing to Trinity San Antonio and Alyssa Durazo-Frescas as dangerous shooters who can ignite the offense. While their path to the later rounds may be challenging, the Lopes’ seasoned roster and potent offense make them a team to watch closely. Their experience and coaching could translate to at least one or two big upsets. Don’t be surprised if they make it to the second weekend.

Green Bay Phoenix:

According to Nancy Armour of USA TODAY, the Green Bay Phoenix present a compelling Cinderella profile. While undersized, the Phoenix compensate with a veteran squad and a staunch defense. These qualities are invaluable in the pressure cooker of March Madness. Veteran leadership provides composure under pressure, while a strong defensive foundation gives them the ability to control the pace of the game and frustrate opponents. This is a team that could potentially stifle higher-seeded teams and grind out victories.

Harvard Crimson:

The Harvard Crimson emerged victorious from a highly competitive Ivy League, which sent an impressive three teams to the NCAA Tournament. Cory Diaz of The Daily Advertiser argues that Harmoni Turner possesses the talent to be in the National Player of the Year conversation if she played for a Power Four program. Turner’s exceptional skills and leadership make Harvard a dangerous opponent. Their ability to navigate a challenging conference schedule demonstrates their resilience and preparedness for the rigors of the NCAA Tournament.

Vanderbilt Commodores:

Jordan Mendoza of USA TODAY believes the Vanderbilt Commodores, spearheaded by Mikayla Blakes, a "certified bucket-getter," and Khamil Pierre, could be a surprise team to reach the Sweet 16. Their offensive firepower and ability to score in bunches make them a threat to any opponent. They’re a team that could easily get hot and knock off some higher seeds.

Florida State Seminoles:

Cydney Henderson and Cora Hall of USA TODAY and the Knoxville News Sentinel, respectively, both are bullish on the Florida State Seminoles’ chances of making a Sweet 16 run. They highlight Ta’Niya Latson, the nation’s leading scorer (24.9 points per game), as the key to FSU’s high-octane offense, which ranks second in the country (87.2 ppg). Henderson specifically points to a potential second-round matchup against a possibly hobbled LSU team as a favorable opportunity for an upset. Latson’s clutch play and ability to take over games make the Seminoles a team that no opponent can afford to overlook. The Seminoles have the pieces to make a deep tournament run.

Michigan Wolverines:

The Michigan Wolverines, despite their youth, possess the talent and coaching to make a significant impact in the tournament. Mike Sykes of For The Win emphasizes the impact of the Wolverines’ freshman class, led by Syla Swords, Olivia Olson, and Mila Holloway. Lulu Kesin of the Greenville News notes that Michigan gave South Carolina a tough game early in the season and highlights Swords as a dynamic scorer who can disrupt opposing defenses. Coach Kim Barnes Arico’s leadership is another key factor in Michigan’s potential for a deep run. The experience of battling in the tough Big Ten conference has prepared them for the challenges of the NCAA Tournament. They have the ingredients to shock the world.

Tennessee Lady Vols:

Meghan Hall of For The Win suggests that the Tennessee Lady Vols, led by coach Kim Caldwell, could rediscover their magic and make a run to the Sweet 16. Hall points to their earlier victory over UConn as evidence of their ability to beat top-ranked talent. While the Lady Vols have experienced some disappointing losses, their talent and potential remain undeniable. If they can recapture their early-season form, they could be a dangerous opponent for any team in the bracket. They have the coaching and the pedigree to turn things around and make a statement in the tournament.
These seven teams represent a diverse range of styles, strengths, and conference affiliations. They each possess the key ingredients necessary to pull off upsets and embark on memorable Cinderella runs. While predicting the exact outcome of March Madness is impossible, these teams are certainly worth keeping a close eye on as the tournament unfolds. Their journey will undoubtedly add to the excitement and unpredictability that makes March Madness one of the most captivating sporting events in the world. Be sure to tune in and witness the magic unfold!