Conference Realignment and Its Impact on NCAAW

The landscape of college basketball underwent significant changes with the 2024-25 conference realignment. Traditional powerhouses like South Carolina continue to dominate, while new additions like Texas and Oklahoma have bolstered the SEC. This article delves into the performance and postseason potential of the Power 4 conferences: SEC, Big Ten, ACC, and Big 12.

1. SEC: The Powerhouse Conference The SEC emerges as the top conference with 10 projected bids and an average seed of 4.1. The addition of Texas and Oklahoma has elevated the competition, making the SEC a formidable force. With three national title contenders—LSU, South Carolina, and Texas—the SEC is poised for a strong postseason showing. Metrics support this, with eight SEC teams in the top 20 of the NET rankings.

2. Big Ten: Quantity Meets Quality The Big Ten is expected to shatter its previous record with 13 projected bids. The inclusion of UCLA and USC has added depth, though postseason success has been elusive. The conference boasts a high nonconference winning percentage (.840) and ranks second in the NET. However, uncertainty around teams making the Sweet 16 keeps the Big Ten at No. 2.

3. ACC: A Mix of Consistency and Potential The ACC, with nine projected bids, remains a strong contender. Notre Dame, Duke, and NC State carry the conference with Final Four potential. However, the ACC struggles with depth beyond these top teams, as most other teams are likely to finish with below .500 records.

4. Big 12: Holding Steady Despite the loss of Texas and Oklahoma, the Big 12 remains competitive with seven projected bids. TCU’s emergence and Kansas State’s consistency have kept the conference relevant. However, the Big 12 lacks the depth of the other conferences, with only Utah making a significant impact among the new additions.

Conclusion The 2024-25 NCAA women's basketball season showcases the strength and depth of the Power 4 conferences. The SEC leads the pack with its quality and national title contenders, while the Big Ten boasts the most bids. The ACC and Big 12, though strong, face challenges in depth and postseason potential. As Selection Sunday approaches, the battle for conference supremacy will intensify, setting the stage for an exciting postseason.