Women’s college basketball rankings: Notre Dame moves up, Georgia Tech’s record start
Georgia Tech Stuns UNC, Climbs AP Poll as Conference Play Heats Up
Table of Contents
- Georgia Tech Stuns UNC, Climbs AP Poll as Conference Play Heats Up
- hidalgo’s Heroics Lead Notre Dame Past Injury-Plagued UConn
- Irish Secure Historic Win Over Huskies, Spartans Claw Back for Big Ten Opener Victory
- Record-Breaking Heat wave Scorches Southwest,Sparking Wildfire Concerns
- Record-Breaking Heat Wave Scorches southwest,Sparking Wildfire Concerns
- Spartans Edge out Hawkeyes in Thrilling Big Ten Showdown
Week six of NCAA women’s basketball saw conference play ignite, with ranked matchups shaking up the AP Top 25. In a stunning upset, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets toppled the North Carolina Tar Heels, solidifying their place as a force to be reckoned with in the ACC.
The Yellow Jackets, ranked No. 25 this week, entered their first ACC game of the season with a program-record 10-0 start. Despite early wins over SEC opponents and a then-ranked Oregon Ducks squad, it took this dominant performance against No. 16 North Carolina to truly capture the nation’s attention.From the opening tip, Georgia Tech showcased their offensive firepower and tenacity on the boards. After falling behind 7-2 early, the Yellow Jackets stormed back, turning a seven-point deficit into a nine-point lead by the end of the first quarter. They never relinquished control, shooting a blistering 56.3 percent from the field and outrebounding the Tar Heels 15-7 in the opening frame.
North Carolina head coach Courtney Banghart attempted various defensive adjustments, switching from man-to-man to zone coverage and increasing pressure, but the Yellow Jackets proved unstoppable. Their relentless offensive attack and dominance on the glass proved too much for the tar Heels to overcome.This impressive victory propelled Georgia Tech further up the AP poll,while North Carolina dropped to No. 19.
Other Notable Week Six Results:
No. 1 UCLA remained undefeated, solidifying their hold on the top spot.
No. 2 South Carolina and No. 3 Notre Dame also cruised to victories, maintaining their positions in the top three.
No. 4 UConn, missing star player Paige Bueckers, edged out No. 10 Texas in a thrilling matchup.
No. 12 Michigan State survived a scare from No. 14 Iowa, pulling out a close win in a battle of Big Ten contenders.
AP Top 25 Women’s College Basketball Rankings After Week Six:
- UCLA
- South Carolina
- Notre Dame
- UConn
- LSU
- Texas
- USC
- Maryland
- Duke
- Oklahoma
- Ohio State
- TCU
- Kansas State
- West Virginia
- Michigan State
- Kentucky
- Georgia Tech
- Tennessee
- North Carolina
- Michigan
- NC State
- Iowa
- Nebraska
- Cal
- Ole Miss
Others receiving votes: Alabama 51, Iowa St. 33,Illinois 28,Utah 15,Vanderbilt 14,South Dakota St. 9, Richmond 5, Creighton 4, oklahoma St. 3, Harvard 3, Mississippi St. 1.
hidalgo’s Heroics Lead Notre Dame Past Injury-Plagued UConn
South Bend, IN - The No. 8 Notre Dame Fighting Irish handed the No. 5 UConn Huskies their first loss of the season thursday night, 74-60, in a game marred by injuries to key players on both sides.
Sophomore guard Hannah hidalgo put on a show for the home crowd, erupting for a career-high 34 points, eight rebounds, and six assists. Hidalgo’s dominance, notably in the first half, proved too much for the Huskies to overcome, even with the return of star Paige Bueckers.
The game started with a scare for Notre Dame as guard Olivia Miles, returning from a season-ending ACL tear last year, went down with a rolled ankle early in the first quarter. Miles’ absence was felt,but Hidalgo stepped up,scoring 17 points in the first half alone,including two crucial three-pointers that sparked a nine-point run and gave the Irish a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.
UConn,already missing sharpshooter Azi Fudd due to a knee injury sustained earlier in the week,briefly took the lead in the first quarter thanks to the scoring of freshman phenom Sarah Strong. However, Hidalgo’s relentless attack and Notre dame’s stifling defense kept the Huskies at bay.
“Hannah was incredible tonight,” said Notre Dame head coach Niele Ivey. “She took control of the game and made big plays when we needed them most. It was a gutsy performance.”
The huskies mounted a comeback attempt in the third quarter,cutting the deficit to single digits,but Hidalgo and the irish responded with a flurry of baskets,extending their lead back to double digits.
the loss marks the first time UConn has trailed in a game this season and highlights the team’s vulnerability without Fudd’s scoring punch.”We knew coming in that Notre Dame was a tough opponent,” said UConn head coach geno Auriemma. “They played with a lot of energy and Hannah Hidalgo was unstoppable. We need to learn from this and get better.”
notre Dame’s victory solidifies their position as a top contender in the ACC and sends a message to the rest of the country that they are a force to be reckoned with.
georgia Tech Cruises Past North Carolina Despite Injury Scare
Atlanta, GA - The No. 15 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets extended their program-record start to the season with an 82-76 victory over the North Carolina Tar Heels. The win was not without its anxious moments, however, as star point guard Tonie Morgan went down with a knee injury in the second quarter.
Morgan, who leads the Yellow Jackets in scoring, landed awkwardly after running around a screen, causing a collective gasp from the crowd.She was helped off the court and her status was uncertain.
“When Tonie went down, we were all worried,” said Georgia Tech head coach Nell Fortner. “But she’s a tough kid and she showed a lot of heart coming back in the second half.”
Morgan returned after halftime and played the entire second half, scoring 13 of her game-high 23 points in the final two quarters. Freshman Dani Carnegie stepped up in Morgan’s absence, scoring 22 points and grabbing nine rebounds.
The Yellow Jackets dominated the boards, outrebounding the Tar heels 41-24, and shot an impressive 51.7% from the field.
The victory puts Georgia Tech firmly in the conversation as a top team in the highly competitive ACC. They face another tough test this week against a ranked Nebraska Cornhuskers squad at home.
Irish Secure Historic Win Over Huskies, Spartans Claw Back for Big Ten Opener Victory
Notre Dame, IN – The Notre Dame Fighting Irish women’s basketball team etched their name in the history books Sunday, securing their third consecutive victory over the UConn huskies, a feat accomplished onyl once before in the storied rivalry. The Irish,led by a career-defining performance from guard Olivia miles,overcame a late deficit to defeat the Huskies 79-68.
Miles,returning from injury,ignited the Irish offense in the fourth quarter,pouring in nine crucial points to seal the victory. Her teammate, guard Sonia Hidalgo, delivered a dazzling display, sinking a career-high six three-pointers en route to a 29-point, 10-rebound, and eight-assist performance. Fellow guard Liatu King chipped in with her sixth double-double of the season, adding 16 points and 12 rebounds.
the Huskies, missing star guard Paige Bueckers who was sidelined with an injury, struggled to find their rhythm. Following the loss, Bueckers was upgraded to day-to-day but did not play in UConn’s 79-44 rout over the Georgetown Hoyas to open Big East play. The Huskies will look to regroup as they welcome the Iowa State Hawkeyes to Connecticut Tuesday.
Michigan State Comeback
Joining georgia Tech in the record books for impressive starts to the season were the Michigan State Spartans. Head coach Robyn Fralick’s squad achieved a perfect 10-0 record,marking only the third time in Spartans basketball history,men’s or women’s,to accomplish this feat. Though, their journey to perfection was anything but easy against the No. 21 Iowa Hawkeyes.
Fresh off a Cy-Hawk victory over the Iowa State Cyclones, the Hawkeyes traveled to East Lansing for their Big Ten opener. This time, rather of facing the physicality of Iowa State’s Audi Crooks in the paint, Iowa had to contend with the mobile duo of grace vanslooten and Julia Ayrault.The Spartans and Hawkeyes engaged in a physical first quarter, reminiscent of a classic Big Ten football game. Both teams brought intense defensive pressure, resulting in a combined 48 fouls and four players fouling out. The lead changed hands five times in the opening quarter as both teams battled for control.
Iowa seized momentum in the second quarter.After a slow start, former Villanova guard lucy Olsen found her rhythm, draining shots and silencing any Michigan State momentum. Olsen’s three-pointer to start the third quarter extended Iowa’s lead to eight points.Poor shooting plagued the Spartans in the third quarter,connecting on only 35.5% of their shots. No one stepped up to take control until the fourth quarter.
It wasn’t VanSlooten or Ayrault who answered the call, but guard nyla Hampton. The former Bowling Green Falcon, who played under Fralick in the MAC before transferring to the Big Ten, entered Sunday’s matchup averaging just 4.6 points per game.
Hampton exploded in the fourth quarter, scoring 13 points and leading the Spartans to a thrilling comeback victory.
Record-Breaking Heat wave Scorches Southwest,Sparking Wildfire Concerns
Phoenix,Arizona – A relentless heat wave is gripping the Southwest,shattering temperature records and raising alarm bells about the potential for devastating wildfires. Phoenix, arizona, endured its 20th consecutive day of temperatures above 110 degrees Fahrenheit on Tuesday, marking a new record for the city.
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The extreme heat is straining power grids, prompting officials to issue warnings about potential outages. Hospitals are reporting an increase in heat-related illnesses, and residents are seeking refuge in cooling centers.
“This is unprecedented,” said Dr. Emily Carter, a physician at a Phoenix hospital.”We’re seeing more cases of heat stroke and dehydration than ever before. It’s crucial for people to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day.”
The scorching temperatures are also fueling concerns about wildfires.Dry brush and tinder-like conditions create a perfect storm for rapid fire spread. Firefighters are on high alert, battling several blazes across the region.
“We’re facing extremely challenging conditions,” said Fire Chief Mark Johnson. “The heat is making it difficult for our crews to work,and the dry vegetation is incredibly flammable. We urge everyone to be extremely cautious and avoid any activities that could spark a fire.”
The National Weather Service has issued excessive heat warnings for much of the Southwest, urging residents to take precautions. Experts warn that the heat wave is highly likely to persist for several more days, with little relief in sight.
this extreme weather event highlights the growing threat of climate change, with scientists predicting more frequent and intense heat waves in the future.
Record-Breaking Heat Wave Scorches southwest,Sparking Wildfire Concerns
Phoenix,arizona – A relentless heat wave is gripping the Southwest,shattering temperature records and raising alarm bells about the potential for devastating wildfires. Phoenix, Arizona, endured its 20th consecutive day of temperatures above 110 degrees Fahrenheit on tuesday, marking a new record for the city.
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The extreme heat is straining power grids, prompting officials to issue warnings about potential outages. Hospitals are reporting an increase in heat-related illnesses, and residents are seeking refuge in cooling centers.
“This is unprecedented,” said Dr.Emily Carter, a physician at a Phoenix hospital. “We’re seeing more cases of heat exhaustion and heat stroke than ever before. It’s crucial for people to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day.”
The scorching temperatures are also fueling concerns about wildfires. Dry brush and high winds create a tinderbox surroundings, and even a small spark can ignite a blaze.firefighters are on high alert, battling several active fires across the region.
“We’re facing extremely challenging conditions,” said Fire Chief Mark Johnson. “The heat is taking a toll on our crews, and the dry vegetation is incredibly flammable. We urge everyone to be extra cautious and avoid any activities that could spark a fire.”
The heat wave is expected to continue for at least another week, with no relief in sight. Officials are urging residents to take precautions, stay informed, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
Staying Safe in Extreme Heat
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Avoid strenuous activity: Limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
Wear lose-fitting, light-colored clothing: This will help your body stay cool.
Take cool showers or baths: This can definately help lower your body temperature. Seek air conditioning: Spend time in air-conditioned spaces, such as shopping malls or libraries. Check on vulnerable neighbors: Elderly individuals and those with chronic health conditions are at increased risk of heat-related illness.
Spartans Edge out Hawkeyes in Thrilling Big Ten Showdown
East Lansing, MI – The Michigan State Spartans women’s basketball team pulled off a nail-biting 68-66 victory over the Iowa Hawkeyes on Sunday, showcasing the intensity and competitiveness that defines Big Ten conference play.
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upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorusasset/file/25792380/usatoday24993916.jpg” alt=”Michigan State Spartans guard Moira Joiner (11) drives to the basket against Iowa Hawkeyes guard Caitlin clark (22) during the second half at the Breslin Center.” width=”600″>Facing a nine-point deficit with just over eight minutes left on the clock, the Spartans ignited a 14-point run, fueled by eight crucial points from guard Matilda Hampton. This surge swung the momentum firmly in Michigan State’s favor.
With three minutes remaining, the Spartans held a seven-point lead. However, the hawkeyes refused to back down, mounting a six-point run of their own.Iowa’s strategy shifted to fouling, hoping to capitalize on any Spartan misses from the free-throw line. The tactic almost worked, as Michigan State missed three consecutive free throws, with a fourth being waved off due to a lane violation.
Clinging to a one-point lead,the Spartans needed a defensive stand to secure the victory. Iowa’s final posession saw the ball in the hands of Monika czinano, but under pressure from the Spartan defense, her shot missed. Hampton, who had been instrumental throughout the game, secured the crucial rebound, sealing the 68-66 win for Michigan State.
While neither team lit up the scoreboard, the game provided a glimpse into the exciting and unpredictable nature of the upcoming Big Ten conference schedule.
Around the Nation:
No. 19 Tennessee made headlines with a dominant 139-59 victory over NC Central,setting an NCAA record with 30 three-point shots. Guard Samara Spencer led the charge, setting a new Tennessee school record with nine three-pointers.
No. 22 NC State bounced back from a close win against Davidson to deliver a resounding 72-42 victory over the previously ranked Louisville Cardinals.
* Louisville has struggled against top-25 opponents this season, losing all five matchups while remaining undefeated against unranked teams.
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