ESPN's Way-Too-Early Top 25 for the 2026-27 women's college basketball season places UConn Huskies at No. 1, led by national player of the year candidate Sarah Strong. The Huskies return key contributors including KK Arnold and Kayleigh Heckel, maintaining their status as the nation's top defensive team despite losing Paige Bueckers. Texas Longhorns follow at No. 2 with Madison Booker returning for her senior season.

South Carolina Gamecocks rank third, banking on Joyce Edwards and Tessa Johnson to fill gaps left by departing players. The transfer portal opens Monday and will significantly reshape these rankings, as evidenced by Iowa State's likely tumble after losing Audi Crooks and seven others. LSU Tigers at No. 4 could challenge for the SEC crown if Kim Mulkey retains her top recruiting class and MiLaysia Fulwiley returns.

The rankings highlight a competitive landscape with Michigan Wolverines (No. 5) and USC Trojans (No. 6) poised for deep NCAA tournament runs. Duke Blue Devils at No. 7 could exceed expectations if Emilee Skinner returns healthy. These projections serve as a foundation, acknowledging that portal activity and player decisions will dramatically alter the landscape before tipoff.