Five Potential NCAA Tournament Opponents for Nebraska’s Women’s Basketball Team
As the Nebraska Cornhuskers’ women’s basketball team looks ahead to the NCAA Tournament, fans and analysts alike are eager to predict which teams will be their toughest opponents. With a strong season behind them, Nebraska has positioned itself as one of the top contenders in the nation, but to make a deep run in the tournament, they’ll likely have to face some of the toughest competition in women’s college basketball. Here are five potential NCAA Tournament opponents that could stand in the Cornhuskers’ way:
1. South Carolina Gamecocks
South Carolina, led by head coach Dawn Staley, is a perennial powerhouse in women’s basketball. The Gamecocks have dominated the SEC and consistently found themselves as a top seed in the NCAA Tournament. With stars like Aliyah Boston, one of the most dominant players in the nation, South Carolina poses a significant challenge for any team. Their combination of size, skill, and depth could be a tough test for Nebraska’s defense, making them one of the most intimidating potential matchups. If the Cornhuskers face the Gamecocks, they’ll need to contend with South Carolina’s ability to control both ends of the floor, from suffocating defense to explosive offense.
2. Stanford Cardinal
Stanford is another team with a rich history of success in women’s college basketball. Under head coach Tara VanDerveer, the Cardinal have become synonymous with tournament success, including winning the national title in 2021. With players like Cameron Brink and Haley Jones, Stanford brings a mix of experience, athleticism, and basketball IQ to the table. Their ability to stretch the floor with sharpshooting and dominate the paint makes them a tough matchup for any team. Nebraska’s frontcourt players will need to be at their best if they are to neutralize Stanford’s size and athleticism inside.
3. Iowa State Cyclones
Iowa State, led by head coach Bill Fennelly, has been a rising force in women’s college basketball in recent years. The Cyclones are known for their high-powered offense, led by All-Big 12 guard Ashley Joens, who can score from anywhere on the court. Iowa State also excels in its fast-paced, up-tempo style of play, which could pose challenges for Nebraska’s defense if the Cornhuskers don’t match the Cyclones’ energy. The key for Nebraska in a potential matchup with Iowa State would be to control the tempo and force the Cyclones into a half-court game, where Nebraska’s defense has been more effective.
4. Maryland Terrapins
Maryland, coached by Brenda Frese, is always a threat in the NCAA Tournament. With a blend of veteran leadership and exciting young talent, the Terrapins are one of the top teams in the Big Ten and have made deep runs in the tournament in recent years. Players like Diamond Miller and Shyanne Sellers are capable of taking over a game, and Maryland’s aggressive style of play can cause problems for teams that struggle to adjust. Nebraska’s defensive unit would need to be disciplined, focusing on limiting Maryland’s explosive scoring opportunities while capitalizing on their own offensive strengths to keep the game within reach.
5. UConn Huskies
UConn is a name that carries weight in the NCAA Tournament. Although the Huskies have faced some injury challenges this season, they are always a force to be reckoned with in March. Under legendary coach Geno Auriemma, UConn has built a dynasty, winning multiple national titles over the past few decades. With players like Paige Bueckers, who can change the course of a game in an instant, UConn is always a tough opponent. Nebraska would need to focus on containing Bueckers’ playmaking ability and limiting UConn’s depth, but the Huskies’ experience and championship pedigree make them one of the most dangerous teams in the field.
As Nebraska looks ahead to the NCAA Tournament, these five teams—South Carolina, Stanford, Iowa State, Maryland, and UConn—represent some of the biggest hurdles in their quest for national glory. While the Cornhuskers have proven themselves to be a formidable team, navigating through these tough opponents will require peak performances across the board. If Nebraska can rise to the challenge, they could be poised for a deep run in March Madness.
