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Clark & Cardoso Headline Preseason All-American Teams

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, March 16th 2026 at 11:47 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CANADA

Monday, March 16th, 2026 - As the dust settles on the 2024-25 women's college basketball season, anticipation is already building for the 2025-26 campaign. Sporting News has released its preseason All-American teams, offering a tantalizing glimpse into what promises to be another fiercely competitive year. The selections highlight a blend of established superstars and exciting new talent, signaling a dynamic shift in the landscape of women's college hoops.

The headline, unsurprisingly, features Iowa's Caitlin Clark and South Carolina's Kamilla Cardoso. Clark, arguably the most recognizable face in the sport, returns for her final collegiate season. Her decision to utilize the extra year of eligibility granted by the NCAA is a boon for the game, ensuring continued national attention and record-breaking viewership. Clark's electrifying skillset - a potent combination of long-range shooting, court vision, and sheer determination - makes her a singular force. Analysts predict she will not only refine her existing talents but also elevate her leadership role, aiming to guide the Hawkeyes to their first national championship.

Cardoso's dominance in the paint was a cornerstone of South Carolina's success last season, and her return solidifies the Gamecocks' position as a perennial contender. Her rebounding prowess, shot-blocking ability, and offensive efficiency present a formidable challenge for any opponent. The Gamecocks, consistently among the top-ranked teams, are built on a foundation of strong post play and defensive intensity, and Cardoso is the embodiment of that philosophy.

Beyond these two headliners, the All-American teams reveal a wealth of talent poised to make significant contributions. Breanna McDaniel of NC State, Aaliyah Edwards of UConn, and Lexi Reese of Stanford all earned First Team honors, demonstrating the depth of experience and skill scattered across the country. McDaniel's all-around game, Edwards' consistent scoring, and Reese's dynamic two-way play will be crucial for their respective teams. Riley Earley, a rising star for Tennessee, and highly-touted recruit Laila Barnett of Ohio State, round out the First Team, hinting at a shift towards younger players taking on more prominent roles.

The Second Team boasts a promising group, including Olivia Rose of LSU, a team looking to rebuild after their championship run, and Kennedy Fuller of Texas, who is expected to be a key component in the Longhorns' pursuit of a Big 12 title. Notre Dame's Madison Smith, Iowa State's Jessa McCombs, USC's Addison Harris, Maryland's Katelynn Stenzel, and Gonzaga's Tessa St. Pierre further demonstrate the breadth of talent available. These players will be instrumental in driving their teams' successes throughout the season.

The Third Team offers a look at up-and-coming stars, including North Carolina's Kiki Smith, Florida State's Hailee Daniels, and Michigan State's Myla James. Players like Brooklyn Temple of Oklahoma, Piper Roberts of Baylor, Savannah Lawson of Oregon, and Aubrey West of Arizona represent programs with the potential to surprise and make deep tournament runs. Their development will be closely watched as they strive to elevate their games and contribute to their teams' success.

Looking Ahead: Key Storylines for 2025-26

Beyond the individual accolades, several overarching storylines will define the 2025-26 season. The transfer portal continues to reshape team rosters, creating unpredictable dynamics and opportunities for players to find more favorable situations. The constant movement necessitates adaptability from coaches and players alike. Conference realignment is also impacting the competitive landscape, with new rivalries emerging and traditional powers facing increased challenges.

Another crucial factor will be the continued growth of the game's popularity. The increased media coverage and fan engagement witnessed in recent years are expected to continue, further amplifying the visibility of these talented athletes. The success of the 2024 Olympics, featuring many of these collegiate stars, will undoubtedly fuel even more interest in women's college basketball.

Finally, the question of succession looms large. As stars like Clark and Cardoso prepare to move on to the professional ranks, the need for new leaders to emerge is paramount. The 2025-26 season will serve as a proving ground for the next generation of women's college basketball superstars, setting the stage for continued growth and excitement in the years to come. This season promises a captivating blend of veteran leadership, rising talent, and unpredictable competition, making it a must-watch for basketball fans across the nation.