The 2025 Women’s NCAA Tournament will commence on Wednesday with the First Four, culminating in the national championship game on April 6 in Tampa, Florida. Throughout the tournament, top stars will lead their respective teams in pursuit of glory. Here are the anticipated top players for this year’s tournament:

1. Paige Bueckers - G, UConn

• Stats: 19 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 2 steals | 53.6% FG, 40.6% 3FG, 89.9% FT
• First-round opponent: No. 15 Arkansas State
  Bueckers has consistently proven she is a vital asset during tournament time, aiming to guide UConn once more towards the Final Four.

2. JuJu Watkins - G, USC

• Stats: 24.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 2.2 steals, 1.9 blocks | 42.6% FG, 33% 3FG, 82% FT
• First-round opponent: No. 16 UNC Greensboro
  Watkins is widely considered the frontrunner for the Naismith Player of the Year award, showcasing versatility on both offense and defense.

3. Lauren Betts - C, UCLA

• Stats: 19.6 points, 9.7 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 2.9 blocks | 63.4% FG, 62.3% FT
• First-round opponent: No. 16 UC San Diego/No. 16 Southern
  Betts has been an influential player for UCLA, turning heads with her commanding performance.

4. Hannah Hidalgo - G, Notre Dame

• Stats: 24.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 3.7 steals | 46.6% FG, 40.7% 3FG, 86% FT
• First-round opponent: No. 14 Stephen F. Austin
  Hidalgo’s notable skills on both ends are crucial for Notre Dame’s title aspirations.

5. Aneesah Morrow - F, LSU

• Stats: 18.5 points, 13.6 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 2.6 steals | 49.5% FG, 74% FT
• First-round opponent: No. 14 San Diego State
  Morrow aims to be fully fit following an injury as she leads her team toward a successful tournament run.