The non-conference games are now a thing of the past as Big Ten women's basketball teams shift their focus entirely to league play. With the new phase comes a fresh set of challenges and opportunities for these teams to prove their mettle. The latest USA TODAY Sports Network’s rankings provide insight into how each team is positioned heading into this critical period.
Top Contenders Face Early Tests
Several top-ranked teams in the Big Ten will be tested early in the conference season, showcasing the competitive nature of the league. UCLA, currently undefeated, faces Nebraska, Michigan, and Indiana within the first week. Similarly, USC, with only one loss, will host Michigan and Nebraska. Maryland, also unbeaten, has two ranked matchups against Michigan State and Iowa, while Ohio State prepares for a tough road trip after easing back into the league play.
UCLA's perfect record will be put to the test right from the start. The Bruins face Nebraska on Sunday, followed by home games against Michigan and a challenging away game at Indiana. USC, coming off a significant win at UConn, will host Michigan and Nebraska, putting pressure on JuJu Watkins and her team. Maryland, despite its flawless record, will have to navigate through two ranked opponents—Michigan State and Iowa—with a home game against Rutgers in between. Ohio State, maintaining an impressive record, will ease back into the conference with games at Rutgers and against Northwestern before facing a tougher road ahead.
Middle and Lower Ranks Prepare for Tough Schedules
Teams in the middle and lower ranks of the Big Ten are gearing up for equally challenging schedules. Michigan State, despite a recent loss to Alabama, will travel to Maryland to test its status as a high-end player. Iowa, after sweeping in-state rivals, will host Purdue. Michigan, aiming to establish itself further, faces USC, UCLA, and Ohio State in quick succession. Nebraska, having lost to Georgia Tech, will play at UCLA and USC, setting the stage for a brutal return to the conference.
Michigan State, though blemished by a loss to Alabama, will immediately test its standing with a road trip to Maryland. Iowa, fresh from another successful in-state sweep, will host Purdue, starting their league play on a strong note. Michigan, looking to solidify its position, will travel to USC and UCLA before hosting Ohio State. Nebraska, which faced a setback against Georgia Tech, will play at UCLA and USC, presenting a formidable challenge. Illinois, maintaining a solid start, will face Oregon, Washington, and Minnesota in what could be manageable but tricky games. Indiana, riding a five-game winning streak, returns to league play with matches against Wisconsin, UCLA, and Northwestern. Meanwhile, Minnesota and Oregon aim to build on their records, while Washington and Rutgers prepare for grueling schedules that will define their inaugural and ongoing seasons in the Big Ten.