The Huskies of the University of Connecticut have come out on top of ESPN’s Way-Too-Early Women’s Basketball Rankings for the 2021-2022 season. The reigning national champions have secured their spot at the top of the list after a dominant season that saw them finish with an undefeated record.
UConn has always been a powerhouse in women’s basketball and has won a record 11 NCAA championships, including four in a row from 2013 to 2016. This season, the Huskies have cemented their place in the history books by winning their first national championship since 2016 and finishing the season with a perfect 28-0 record.
The team is led by head coach Geno Auriemma, who has been at the helm of the program since 1985. Auriemma is widely considered one of the greatest coaches in the history of women’s basketball and has built a dynasty at UConn, with the team consistently ranked among the top in the country.
The Huskies are also home to some of the best players in the game, including freshman sensation Paige Bueckers, who was named the national player of the year and led the team in scoring, assists, and steals. Bueckers’ outstanding performance throughout the season earned her comparisons to past greats like Diana Taurasi and Breanna Stewart.
UConn’s dominance this season has put them on top of ESPN’s Way-Too-Early rankings for next season, edging out teams like South Carolina, Stanford, and Baylor. The rankings take into account factors like returning players, incoming freshmen, and transfers to predict which teams will be the strongest in the upcoming season.
Despite losing senior point guard and team captain Evina Westbrook, UConn is poised to have another strong season with the return of players like Bueckers, Olivia Nelson-Ododa, and Christyn Williams. The team is also bringing in a talented recruiting class that includes five-star forward Azzi Fudd, who is widely considered the top high school prospect in the country.
While it’s still too early to know for sure how the next season will play out, UConn’s performance this year and their strong roster make them a top contender for another national championship. Husky fans and women’s basketball enthusiasts alike are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an exciting and competitive season.