ESPN's annual ranking of the top 25 women's NCAA tournament players reveals a competitive field led by UConn's Sarah Strong. The sophomore forward, who was ranked 12th in pre-tournament projections, tops the list after posting 18.4 points per game this season. Strong's consistent performance and ability to elevate her game in crucial moments make her the clear frontrunner.

Vanderbilt's Mikayla Blakes and Notre Dame's Hannah Hidalgo round out the top three, with Blakes leading the nation at 27.0 PPG and Hidalgo excelling as a two-way player. The rankings reflect performances through the first two rounds, with five previously ranked players eliminated. Teams like Louisville and North Carolina, while balanced, couldn't produce a single standout for the top 25.

Regional semifinals begin Friday in Fort Worth and Sacramento, featuring five ACC schools among the Sweet 16. Azzi Fudd's explosive 34-point game for UConn and Madison Booker's 40-point performance for Texas highlight the tournament's offensive firepower. With star power across all matchups, the next rounds promise compelling basketball as teams vie for spots in the Elite Eight.