This analysis highlights New Year’s resolutions for women’s college basketball teams as a lens through which to examine their strengths, weaknesses, and potential for the remainder of the season. Below are key takeaways and reflections on each team mentioned:
Top Contenders
1. UCLA:
Resolution: Get Lauren Betts a touch on every possession.
Analysis: The Bruins’ offensive success heavily depends on Betts’ efficiency in the paint. By prioritizing her involvement, UCLA can maximize scoring opportunities and create mismatches that open up perimeter options.
2. Notre Dame:
Resolution: Stay healthy.
Analysis: Injuries have been a recurring theme for the Irish, derailing their NCAA Tournament runs in recent years. Keeping key players like Olivia Miles and others on the floor will be critical to sustaining their championship aspirations.
Mid-Tier Teams
13. Kentucky:
Resolution: Minimize foul differential.
Analysis: With an offense that relies on jump shots rather than attacking the rim, the Wildcats must find ways to balance their free-throw disadvantage by improving defensive discipline and rebounding.
14. Tennessee:
Resolution: Maintain high 3-point volume.
Analysis: The Lady Vols’ record-breaking shooting performance shows their potential as a unique offensive powerhouse. Staying committed to their 3-point strategy could differentiate them in the SEC.
15. Ole Miss:
Resolution: More KK Deans.
Analysis: Deans is the spark Ole Miss needs to balance their elite defense with a competent offense. Increasing her minutes could make the Rebels a more complete team.
16. NC State:
Resolution: Lean into small ball.
Analysis: A guard-heavy lineup could provide the Wolfpack with the agility and scoring punch they need to compete with top-tier teams. This unconventional approach might be their best shot at success.
Dark Horses
24. Utah:
Resolution: Throw a wrench in the Big 12 title race.
Analysis: As a program with a history of surprising higher-ranked teams, Utah’s experience and cohesion could disrupt the established Big 12 hierarchy, adding excitement to the race.
25. Illinois:
Resolution: Show resistance in the paint.
Analysis: Improving defensive intensity and rebounding in the paint will be key for Illinois to advance beyond their current plateau and make deeper postseason runs.
Overall Trends
Injuries and depth: Several teams are grappling with injuries, emphasizing the importance of depth and player health.
Strategic adaptations: From small ball to 3-point barrages, teams are exploring unconventional approaches to gain a competitive edge.
Balancing defense and offense: Elite defensive teams like Ole Miss must develop offensive solutions, while offensive juggernauts like Tennessee need to maintain their unique strengths.
This snapshot of resolutions serves as both an analysis of team needs and a roadmap for success as the season unfolds.
