Tennessee is searching for a new women's basketball coach after firing Kellie Harper. Potential candidates include Niele Ivey, Lindsay Gottlieb, Jeff Walz, Scott Rueck, Cori Close, JR Payne, Yolett McPhee-McCuin, Kara Lawson, Tomekia Reed, Jennie Baranczyk, and Shea Ralph. These coaches have achieved success at their respective programs and could bring fresh perspectives and strong recruiting skills to the Lady Vols.
No. 3 Iowa WBB will face off against Maryland Terrapins in a game that could potentially break Iowa's losing streak at the XFINITY Center. Despite Maryland's recent struggles and key player absences, Iowa will need to contend with Maryland's fast-paced offensive style and work to overcome their historical difficulties at the XFINITY Center.
Despite a loss to the Tennessee Lady Vols with a final score of 75-67, the Auburn Tigers women's basketball team showcased their potential in their SEC opener at Neville Arena. Coaches from both teams praised Auburn's talent and defensive intensity, particularly in the first half where they forced 14 turnovers. Although the Tigers experienced a scoring drought and signs of fatigue in the second half, Coach Johnnie Harris remains optimistic about the team's ability to improve and adapt to the demands of SEC play as the season progresses.
The NCAA has secured a new media rights deal for women's college basketball, valued at $65 million annually in an eight-year contract with ESPN. Despite the increase from the previous deal, there is disappointment among coaches due to the sport being bundled with 39 other championships. NCAA president Charlie Baker is under scrutiny for future decisions that could further enhance the sport's revenue and growth, such as implementing financial units for women's basketball and creating a third tier of corporate partnerships for NCAA championships. Coaches and industry experts are advocating for these changes to allow women's basketball to establish its value independently and to capitalize on its current momentum.
The Nebraska Huskers women's basketball team defeated the Wisconsin Badgers 69-57, marking a 3-0 start in the Big Ten for the first time since the 2011-12 season. Natalie Potts led with 16 points, all scored in the second half, and Alexis Markowski achieved her 30th career double-double. The Huskers showed strong team performance with all 11 players scoring, and they are set to face No. 14 Indiana next, with a special pregame ceremony for All-American Jordan Hooper.
The Grambling State women's basketball team set a new Division I record with a 141-point margin of victory, defeating the College of Biblical Studies 159-18. This surpasses the previous record set by Savannah State in 2018. Grambling's dominant performance included eight players scoring in double figures and a strong defensive showing, leaving them at a 6-5 season record before entering conference play in the SWAC. The College of Biblical Studies is a newcomer, in its first season, and competes in Division II of the NCCAA.
The Grambling State women's basketball team set a new Division I record with a 141-point victory, defeating The College of Biblical Studies 159-18. Arianna Mosley led the team with 27 points, followed by Kahia Warmsley with 20 points and a double-double. This historic win surpasses the previous record set in 2018 by Savannah State. Grambling State demonstrated their depth with multiple players scoring in double figures. The College of Biblical Studies, a Division II team, has not won a game this season.
South Carolina's women's basketball team remains at the top of the AP Top 25 poll as of January 1, 2024, maintaining their dominant position from the previous year despite changes in their starting lineup. The Gamecocks, along with UCLA and Iowa, hold the top three spots, with UCLA ready to take over should South Carolina show any signs of weakness. The poll has seen significant movement with ranked teams losing to unranked opponents, leading to shifts in the rankings. South Carolina's recent victory over East Carolina and their upcoming SEC opener against Florida are key highlights, while Iowa's Caitlin Clark continues to chase the all-time scoring record, contributing to her team's high ranking.
