Womens NCAA Tournament Second Round Heats Up: Sunday Showdown Preview

The intensity ratchets up another notch as the second round of the 2025 Womens NCAA Tournament unfolds on Sunday. A full slate of eight games promises a day of high-stakes basketball, where dreams are realized and seasons come to an abrupt end. Every team stepping onto the court is driven by the singular goal of surviving the weekend and earning a coveted spot in the Sweet Sixteen, bringing them closer to the ultimate prize.

All eyes will be glued to the action, following every basket, rebound, and defensive stop as these talented athletes battle for advancement. Brackets will be updated in real-time, and the nation will be captivated by the unfolding narratives of upsets, dominant performances, and nail-biting finishes.

Spotlight on the Top Seeds:

Sunday’s schedule features a pair of top-seeded powerhouses in action: UCLA and South Carolina. Both teams entered the tournament with high expectations and are determined to prove their championship mettle.

• UCLA vs. Richmond: The No. 1 seed UCLA Bruins face a challenging test against the No. 8 seed Richmond Spiders. UCLA, known for its balanced attack and stifling defense, will need to be at their best to avoid an upset. Richmond, having already proven their ability to compete with top teams, will look to disrupt the Bruins’ rhythm and capitalize on any weaknesses. The Bruins will lean on their star players to lead the charge, while Richmond will rely on a cohesive team effort and a sharp game plan.
• South Carolina vs. Indiana: The undefeated South Carolina Gamecocks, another No. 1 seed, square off against the No. 9 seed Indiana Hoosiers. South Carolina, boasting an imposing frontcourt and a relentless defensive presence, are the favorites in this matchup. However, Indiana, with their experienced guards and offensive firepower, are capable of pulling off a surprise. The Gamecocks’ dominance inside the paint will be a key factor, while the Hoosiers will need to shoot well from the perimeter and limit turnovers.

Key Matchups to Watch:

Beyond the top seeds, several other intriguing matchups highlight Sunday’s second-round action.

• Kentucky vs. Kansas State: A clash of styles is expected when No. 4 seed Kentucky, led by the dynamic Georgia Amoore, takes on the No. 5 seed Kansas State Wildcats. Kentucky’s fast-paced offense and Amoore’s playmaking ability will be tested by Kansas State’s disciplined defense and balanced scoring attack. This game promises to be a high-scoring affair, with both teams showcasing their offensive prowess.
• Notre Dame vs. Michigan: The Notre Dame Fighting Irish, led by the sensational Hannah Hidalgo, face a tough challenge against the No. 6 seed Michigan Wolverines. Notre Dame’s explosive offense and Hidalgo’s electrifying performances have made them a must-watch team. However, Michigan’s size and experience could pose problems for the Irish. The Wolverines will look to control the tempo and exploit their advantages in the paint.
• Tennessee vs. Ohio State: The No. 5 seed Tennessee Volunteers, under the guidance of Kim Caldwell, are seeking a return to the Sweet Sixteen after missing out last year. Standing in their way are the No. 4 seed Ohio State Buckeyes. This game is a battle of two storied programs with a history of success in the NCAA Tournament. Tennessee’s athleticism and defensive intensity will be matched by Ohio State’s offensive efficiency and experience.

JuJu Watkins and USC: A March Madness Storyline

While USC isn’t playing on Sunday, their journey and the health of their star player, JuJu Watkins, remains a significant storyline in the tournament. The article emphasizes the importance of Watkins’ "injury scare and rare in-game rest" as a potential benefit for USC as they navigate the challenges of March Madness. Managing Watkins’ workload and ensuring her health will be crucial for USC’s chances of making a deep tournament run. Her performance is essential to their success, and any adjustments to her playing time will be closely monitored.

How to Follow the Action:

For fans eager to follow every moment of Sunday’s second-round games, several viewing options are available.

• Television: Games will be broadcast across ESPN and ABC, providing comprehensive coverage of the day’s matchups.
• Streaming: For those with a valid cable login, March Madness Live offers a streaming option to watch the games on various devices.
• Fubo: Fubo provides access to the ESPN family of networks and offers a free trial for new subscribers, allowing fans to catch all the action.

Beyond the Games:

The Womens NCAA Tournament is more than just a basketball competition; it’s a celebration of women’s athletics and the incredible talent on display. The tournament provides a platform for these athletes to showcase their skills, inspire future generations, and create lasting memories. The excitement and passion surrounding the tournament continue to grow each year, attracting a wider audience and solidifying its place as a premier sporting event.

The second round promises a day of thrilling competition, unforgettable moments, and dramatic finishes. As teams battle for a chance to advance to the Sweet Sixteen, fans across the nation will be captivated by the unfolding drama and the pursuit of championship glory. Sunday’s games are a must-watch for any basketball enthusiast.