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The 13 best early non-conference women’s basketball games
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The 13 best early non-conference women’s basketball games

With the start of women’s college basketball just around the corner, here are 13 of the best early-season nonconference games you should tune into your TV.

Aflac Oui Play – November 4, Opening day

Paris did not disappoint last year, and I’m not expecting anything spectacular for the second round of NCAA women’s basketball games on French soil. And double the fun this time!

I’m excited to see the frontcourt matchup between USC’s Kiki Iriafen and Ole Miss’ Madison Scott.

A clash of two iconic coaches, UCLA’s Cori Close and Louisville’s Jeff Walz looking to put on a masterclass in two different styles, both games could set us up for some early AP rankings results.

Ally Tipoff in Charlotte – November 10

  • South Carolina vs. NC State

A rematch of last year’s Final Four, which saw the Gamecocks eventually become three-time national champions, both teams will be eager to dominate early in the season. Additionally, NC State’s Saniya Rivers will face her former team.

Kentucky – Louisville – November 16

This in-state rivalry is always intense and both programs have strong track records. Kentucky fields a competitive roster, while Louisville consistently ranks among the elite. These games are often high stakes and fierce local pride adds to the atmosphere.

USC – Notre Dame – November 23

USC and Notre Dame both have rich traditions with rising stars in the game. This matchup features strong recruiting classes and dynamic players. Expect a competitive game that will showcase the March Madness vibe with Notre Dame’s storied program and USC’s resurgence.

UCLA – South Carolina — November 24

South Carolina's Raven Johnson and UCLA meet on November 24

UCLA and South Carolina are two powerhouses that have achieved success recently. This matchup will highlight the tactical styles of both coaches (South Carolina’s Dawn Staley and Close) and, of course, some of the best athletes in the college game. The conflict between the West Coast and the SEC always attracts attention and will have significant impacts on the rankings.

South Carolina vs. Iowa State — Nov. 28 at Fort Myers

The defending champions will face a young and hungry team that can match their level of physical strength and size. Iowa State has made a splash in recent seasons and will continue to prove they can compete with the best of the best.

SEC/ACC Competition — December 5

This match promises to be exciting, with both teams having a strong presence in the tournament environment. From elite guard play to overwhelming defenses, the mix of styles creates an exciting game. There’s also some fun guard play between Olivia Miles, Hannah Hidalgo, Madison Booker and Rori Harmon.

The first thing that comes to my mind when I see this matchup is defense. The coaching duel between Staley and Duke’s Kara Lawson (two notable players quickly making their mark as head coaches in the NCAA and WNBA) adds an exciting tone to this matchup.

Champions Class at Barclays Center – December 7

Two of the most respected coaches in the game in Walz and UConn’s Geno Auriemma have developed two strong programs. As if the clash of the Titans couldn’t get any more exciting, UConn-Louisville will face off in one of the most iconic arenas, making this a fascinating matchup.

Iowa – Iowa State – December 11

The Cy-Hawk rivalry is fierce in Iowa; Talk about bragging rights! Both teams have passionate fan bases and talented rosters. Intensity and local pride make this game must-see television from Big Ten and Big 12 foes.

Notre Dame – UConn – December 12

Notre Dame's Hannah Hidalgo and UConn's Paige Bueckers will meet on December 12

As two of the most prestigious programs in women’s college basketball, this rivalry always comes to the fore when they clash. Both teams have a history of meeting in critical matches, including the NCAA tournament. The last time they met, Hidalgo had an iconic standout game as a freshman that led Notre Dame to a 25-point victory in front of UConn’s home crowd.

UConn vs. Iowa State – December 17, Hall of Fame showcase

Starpower is not shortchanged in this matchup with two of the game’s biggest faces, UConn’s Paige Bueckers and Iowa State’s Audi Crooks. Both programs didn’t hesitate to put together a rigorous schedule to prepare for March Madness. This will give both teams a great temperature check before heading into conference play and could have big implications in the AP rankings.

UConn and USC — December 21

USC's Juju Watkins and UConn's Paige Bueckers will meet on December 21

A rematch of the Elite Eight that halted USC’s historic run could see both teams in the Final Four or potentially the championship game at the end of the 2024-25 season. This matchup is a tournament-quality game that will attract national attention, with both teams looking to make a statement.