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South Carolina Remains #1 in ClutchPoints Power Rankings

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, December 30th 2025 at 10:19 GMT by Jerry

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ClutchPoints Power Rankings: South Carolina Still Reigns, But the Chase is Tight in Women’s College Basketball

The landscape of women’s college basketball remains captivating as we head into March Madness. ClutchPoints recently released their latest power rankings (dated February 27, 2024), and while the top spot remains firmly held by a dominant force, the competition behind them is fierce and full of potential upsets. This article breaks down ClutchPoints' current rankings, highlighting key contenders, surprising shifts, and what these rankings suggest about the upcoming NCAA Tournament.

South Carolina: The Undisputed Number One (For Now)

Unsurprisingly, Dawn Staley’s South Carolina Gamecocks continue to occupy the coveted number one position. Their 26-0 record speaks volumes, showcasing a blend of defensive prowess and offensive efficiency that has been virtually unstoppable this season. ClutchPoints emphasizes their suffocating defense – allowing just 54.3 points per game – as a major factor in their dominance. The Gamecocks’ ability to control the tempo and force turnovers consistently puts them in a position to win, regardless of opponent. Their recent victory over LSU (detailed here: [https://clutchpoints.com/ncaa-basketball/south-carolina-gamecocks-lsu-tigers-womens-basketball-score]) solidified their claim as the team to beat. While they haven't faced a truly pushover schedule, their performance against ranked opponents has been impressive. The article notes that South Carolina’s margin of victory is often significant, indicating a level of control rarely seen in women’s college basketball.

The Top Five: A Battle for Positioning and Momentum

Following South Carolina, the top five are separated by relatively slim margins, creating a compelling race for seeding and momentum heading into the tournament. At number two sits Iowa, led by superstar Caitlin Clark. Clark's scoring prowess (averaging 31.7 points per game) is undeniable, and her ability to elevate her teammates makes Iowa a constant threat. However, ClutchPoints acknowledges that Iowa’s reliance on Clark can be a vulnerability; if she struggles, the Hawkeyes’ offense can sputter. Their recent performance against Ohio State (mentioned in the linked article: [https://clutchpoints.com/ncaa-basketball/caitlin-clark-ohio-state-womens-basketball-score]) demonstrated this dependence, highlighting a need for more consistent contributions from other players.

UConn, at number three, represents another powerhouse program with a strong tradition of success. Their blend of talent and experience makes them a dangerous opponent in any matchup. NC State holds the fourth spot, showcasing impressive growth throughout the season. Their ability to compete with top-tier teams has earned them respect within the rankings. Rounding out the top five is Stanford, which, while still formidable, has experienced some inconsistencies that have prevented them from climbing higher.

The Middle Ground: Teams on the Rise and Potential Bracket Busters

Positions six through ten are where things get truly interesting. Teams like Texas, Oregon State, Kansas State, Colorado, and Notre Dame all jockey for position, each possessing the potential to make a deep tournament run or become an early-round upset victim. Texas’s strong defense is highlighted as a key strength, while Oregon State's balanced scoring attack makes them difficult to contain. Kansas State has shown resilience and determination throughout the season. Colorado’s impressive record reflects their improved play, and Notre Dame, with its rich history, remains a program to watch.

Beyond the Top 10: Dark Horses and Teams Battling for Tournament Inclusion

The rankings extend beyond the top ten, showcasing teams vying for at-large bids or automatic qualifiers through conference tournaments. These include programs like Miami, Tennessee, Creighton, Maryland, and several others. ClutchPoints emphasizes that these teams have the potential to disrupt the established order if they can find their rhythm and peak at the right time. The article notes that injuries, unexpected slumps, or a favorable tournament draw could significantly impact their chances of advancing far in the NCAA Tournament.

Key Takeaways & What to Watch For:

• South Carolina's Dominance is Tested: While South Carolina remains the favorite, their path to an undefeated season isn’t guaranteed. A slip-up in the SEC Tournament or a challenging matchup in the NCAA Tournament could change everything.
• Caitlin Clark's Impact: Iowa’s success hinges heavily on Caitlin Clark’s performance. The Hawkeyes need other players to step up and provide consistent scoring support.
• Conference Tournaments Matter: The upcoming conference tournaments will be crucial for seeding and momentum. Unexpected results can shake up the rankings significantly.
• Defense Wins Championships: South Carolina's defensive dominance underscores the importance of defense in women’s college basketball. Teams that can consistently stifle opponents have a significant advantage.
• Potential Upset Candidates: Several teams outside the top ten possess the talent and potential to pull off upsets in the NCAA Tournament, making for an unpredictable and exciting postseason.

ClutchPoints' power rankings provide a snapshot of the current state of women’s college basketball. As the tournament approaches, expect further shifts and surprises as teams battle for supremacy and the ultimate championship title. The competition is fierce, and the road to glory will be anything but easy.