Pac-12 Powers UCLA, Stanford Lead Women's Basketball Ranks

Basketball

As March Madness heats up, the Pac-12 conference has emerged as one of the premier powerhouses in women’s college basketball this season. Our latest power rankings showcase the elite talent and depth of this mighty conference.

At the top, it’s a two-team race between reigning #1 UCLA and perennial contender Stanford. The Bruins have positioned themselves as the team to beat with an incredible 26-6 record, backed by an imposing strength of schedule that rates best in the Pac-12. Their dynamic offense has overwhelmed opponents, most recently demolishing Cal Baptist 84-55.

UCLA will face a stiff test on Tuesday against Creighton, a talented squad that could punch their ticket to the Sweet Sixteen with an upset win over the Bruins. Still, UCLA looks every bit the part of a #1 seed and will be a tough out for any opponent.

Stanford isn’t far behind at #2, boasting an equally impressive 29-5 record. The Cardinal have feasted on a relatively lighter schedule but passed their biggest test of the season so far with flying colors, blowing out Norfolk State 79-50. Stanford will have a chance to make a statement against Iowa State on Monday night in a prime time battle aired on ESPN.

USC (#3) and Colorado (#4) round out the elite top quartet in the conference. The Trojans have rolled through the season with a stellar 27-5 mark, most recently dismantling Texas A&M-CC 87-55. Meanwhile, Colorado has fought its way to a 24-9 record against the Pac-12’s 7th-toughest slate. Both these squads are extremely battle-tested and could make waves in the Big Dance.

Oregon State (#5) has also caught fire late, winning 13 of their last 15 games to improve to 26-7 on the year. The Beavers are peaking at the right time and could be a potential Cinderella story waiting to happen. Utah (#6) and Washington State (#7) are two more Pac-12 squads to watch out for, having proven they can run with the nation’s best.

While the bottom half of the conference has had its struggles, this group of Pac-12 heavyweights is as formidable as any in recent memory. The race between UCLA and Stanford figures to go down to the wire for conference supremacy. But with so much elite talent, the Pac-12 could realistically send 6 or more teams dancing in the NCAA Tournament.

As a whole, the Pac-12 looks poised to make a major statement on the national stage over the coming weeks. Prepare for high-intensity battles and dramatic finishes, as these West Coast warriors fight to etch their names in March Madness lore.