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UConn Earns Top Seed in 2026 NCAA Women's Tournament

3/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The 2026 NCAA Women's Tournament names UConn as No. 1 overall seed after a 34-0 season.
UConn will face No. 16 UTSA in the opening round.
Top seeds include UCLA, Texas, and South Carolina, with UCLA as the No. 2 seed and facing Cal Baptist.
First Four begin March 18, 2026.
The first round runs March 20–21, 2026, with the Final Four in Phoenix April 3–5, 2026.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA established its first women's basketball tournament in 1982, featuring 32 teams and won by Louisiana Tech, which defeated Cheyney State 76-62. This marked a significant shift from the AIAW tournaments held from 1972 to 1982, highlighting the growing support for women's athletics. UConn's recent dominance, including a perfect 34-0 season, reflects the evolution and increasing competitiveness of women's basketball.

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Story summary

The 2026 NCAA Women's Tournament names UConn as No. 1 overall seed after a 34-0 season.
UConn will face No. 16 UTSA in the opening round.
Top seeds include UCLA, Texas, and South Carolina, with UCLA as the No. 2 seed and facing Cal Baptist.
First Four begin March 18, 2026.
The first round runs March 20–21, 2026, with the Final Four in Phoenix April 3–5, 2026.

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