No. 2 UConn Women Target Another Title Run

UConn enters the 2026-27 season ranked No. 2 and targeting another national title, with Sarah Strong leading a returning core after last season’s semifinal loss to South Carolina. The Huskies opened the preseason with an 83-61 win over Texas, rallying after a tied first half, and face an unusually demanding slate of marquee opponents early in the season. Their rematch with South Carolina will renew attention on the Final Four confrontation between Geno Auriemma and Dawn Staley, though Auriemma says he is focused on the season ahead. South Carolina is also viewed as a leading title contender, despite needing to address its point-guard situation; USC’s return of JuJu Watkins adds another major storyline to the season.