Full Breakdown
Women's College Basketball Power Rankings: TCU and Maryland Surge
2/20/2026, 12:34:01 AM
TCU's Rise in the Big 12
Texas Christian University (TCU) has made significant strides in the CBS Sports women's college basketball power rankings, climbing five spots to No. 11 after securing a three-game winning streak. This includes notable victories over No. 20 Baylor and No. 17 West Virginia. Currently, TCU holds a one-game lead in the Big 12 standings with three regular-season games remaining. In contrast, Baylor has faced challenges, dropping seven spots following an 87-56 loss to No. 17 Texas Tech. The Bears are tied for second place in the Big 12 alongside Texas Tech and West Virginia, all trailing TCU by one game.
Maryland's Turnaround in the Big Ten
The University of Maryland has also regained momentum, bouncing back from a four-game losing streak to win four consecutive games, including victories over ranked opponents Michigan State and Ohio State. This resurgence has propelled Maryland back into the ESPN women's college basketball power rankings for the first time since early January. The Terps are currently tied for sixth in the Big Ten with a 9-6 record and are looking to secure a strong finish against lower-ranked teams Purdue and Northwestern, followed by a challenging matchup against second-place Michigan.
Key Performers and Upcoming Challenges
TCU's success can be attributed to standout performances, particularly from senior guard Olivia Miles, who scored a career-high 40 points in the win against Baylor. Meanwhile, Maryland's resurgence has been fueled by the contributions of senior guard Yarden Garzon and junior guard Oluchi Okananwa, who have been instrumental in their recent victories.
As the regular season approaches its conclusion, both TCU and Maryland face critical matchups that could impact their standings. TCU will play Texas Tech and Arizona, while Maryland will face Purdue, Northwestern, and Michigan.
Criticism and Challenges Ahead
Despite their recent successes, both teams face scrutiny and challenges. Baylor's struggles against ranked opponents have raised concerns about their ability to compete at a high level, with their only win against a ranked team this season being against Duke in the season opener. Maryland, while showing improvement, must navigate a tough schedule to solidify their position in the NCAA tournament.
Official Statements & Responses
TCU's head coach expressed confidence in the team's ability to maintain their momentum, stating, "We are focused on finishing strong and taking it one game at a time." Meanwhile, Maryland's coach Brenda Frese highlighted the importance of their recent victories, noting, "Our team has shown resilience and determination, which is crucial as we head into the final stretch of the season."
What's Next
Both TCU and Maryland are poised for critical matchups that will determine their postseason prospects. TCU's upcoming games against Texas Tech and Arizona will be pivotal, while Maryland's final stretch against Purdue, Northwestern, and Michigan will be crucial for their NCAA tournament aspirations.
