First-Round Frenzy: High Scores, Upsets, and Top Performances
The first round of the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament has concluded, with dominant performances from top seeds and notable upsets, setting the stage for an exciting March Madness.
Historic Offensive Showcases
Freshman Forward Sarah Strong (21) looks to go up strong against Arkansas State defender Destinee Rogers. Courtesy of AP Photo/Jessica Hill
Six teams surpassed the 100-point mark in the opening round, a first in NCAA tournament history. Top-seeded Texas dominated William & Mary with a 105-61 victory. The Longhorns were led by Freshman Madison Booker with a double-double, recording 20 points and 14 rebounds.
2nd seeded UConn showcased their championship aspirations with a commanding win over No. 15 Arkansas State, 103-34. While senior guard Azzi Fudd scored an impressive 27 points, all eyes were still on freshman Sarah Strong who made history with 20 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists, and 5 blocks, the first such stat line in 25 years.
The Fighting Irish also made history with their 106-54 victory over Stephen F. Austin. Notre Dame became the first non-one seed not only to score 100 points but also win by more than 50 points
“With the way they’re playing, I think Notre Dame can win it all,” Sophomore Harlee Lowe said.
The Fighting Irish’s achievement was matched by a 103-48 victory from No. 2 seed LSU against No. 14 San Diego State. Flau’jae Johnson made her return after being absent in the SEC tournament by scoring 22 points to lead her team against the Aztecs.
Notable Upsets
No. 10 seed South Dakota State pulled off an upset against No. 7 Oklahoma State. All Oklahoma State starters scored double digits, but the team lost 74-68. Brooklyn Meyer contributed 19 points and 8 rebounds while leading the Jackrabbits’ offense, and Madison Mathiowetz scored an additional 17 points.
Lead guard transfers Deja Kelly and Nani Falatea put up a combined 37 points while shooting 63% from the three-point line to help the No. 10 Oregon Ducks take down the No. 7 seed Vanderbilt in a thriller that ended in Overtime.
“It’s always nice to see and upset because there usually isn’t many in the women’s tournament,” Sophomore basketball player Daphne Anderson said.
Other Key Performances
Sixth-seeded Iowa were led by Ava Heiden, who came off the bench and scored 15 points in 17 minutes leading Iowa to a dominant 92-57 victory over No. 11 Murray State.
