As the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament tips off, fans are on the edge of their seats. Each one of us is eager to witness the drama, upsets, and buzzer-beaters that define March Madness. This year’s first-round matchups promise no shortage of excitement, especially with several games standing out as must-watch eventcrs.
Among these, the clashes between UConn and Arkansas State and Iowa and Murray State are generating significant buzz. Let’s dive into these thrilling contests and explore other notable first-round games.
UConn vs. Arkansas State
Date & Time: Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET
Broadcast: ABC
Matchup Overview:
The University of Connecticut (UConn) Huskies, a perennial powerhouse in women’s basketball, enter the tournament as a No. 2 seed with an impressive 31-3 record. Their opponent, the No. 15 seed Arkansas State Red Wolves, boasts a commendable 21-10 record. With that, they earned their spot through grit and determination. While UConn is heavily favored, March Madness has a storied history of underdog triumphs.
Players to Watch:
- Paige Bueckers (UConn): The senior guard has been the linchpin of the Huskies’ offense, averaging 19 points, 4.9 assists, and 2 steals per game. Her shooting efficiency is remarkable, boasting a 52.8% field goal percentage and a 39.5% success rate from beyond the arc. Bueckers’ ability to orchestrate plays and her clutch performances make her a focal point for UConn’s success.
- Sarah Strong (UConn): This freshman forward has made an immediate impact, averaging 16 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 2.4 steals per game. Her versatility and defensive prowess have earned her accolades, including the Big East Freshman of the Year.
Game Outlook:
While UConn’s dominance is well-documented, Arkansas State’s journey to the tournament has been marked by resilience. The Red Wolves will need to play impeccable defense and capitalize on any UConn turnovers to stay competitive. For UConn, maintaining their offensive rhythm and leveraging their experience will be key to advancing.
Iowa vs. Murray State
Date & Time: Saturday, March 22, 2025, at noon ET
Broadcast: ESPN
Matchup Overview:
The No. 6 seed Iowa Hawkeyes (22-10) are set to face the No. 11 seed Murray State Racers (25-7) in a matchup ripe with potential for an upset. Murray State has been identified as a team capable of shaking up the bracket, making this game particularly intriguing.
Players to Watch:
- Caitlin Clark (Iowa): The dynamic guard has been the engine of Iowa’s offense, known for her deep shooting range and playmaking abilities. Her leadership on the court is pivotal for the Hawkeyes’ success.
- Katelyn Young (Murray State): Leading the Racers with consistent scoring and rebounding, Young’s inside presence poses a significant challenge for Iowa’s defense.
Game Outlook:
Iowa’s defense has been more consistent than their offense this season, making it crucial to contain Murray State’s relentless scoring attack. The Hawkeyes will need to focus on defensive stops and transition play to secure a victory. Murray State, on the other hand, will aim to exploit any defensive lapses and capitalize on their scoring opportunities.
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Other Notable First-Round Matchups
1. No. 7 Oklahoma State vs. No. 10 South Dakota State
Date & Time: Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 3:30 PM ET
Broadcast: ESPN2
Matchup Overview:
Oklahoma State faces a formidable opponent in South Dakota State, a team riding a strong winning streak. The Jackrabbits have been identified as potential bracket-busters, making this matchup one to watch.
2. No. 8 Illinois vs. No. 9 Creighton
Date & Time: Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 7:15 PM ET
Broadcast: ESPNews
Matchup Overview:
The 8-9 matchups are traditionally the most unpredictable, and this game is no exception. Both teams have had fluctuating seasons, and their contrasting styles of play add an extra layer of intrigue.
Don’t miss a moment of March Madness! Download your 2025 NCAA Tournament printable bracket and stay on top of every game, matchup, and Cinderella story. Get yours now!
3. No. 5 Kansas State vs. No. 12 Fairfield
Date & Time: Friday, March 21, 2025, at 2:30 PM ET
Broadcast: ESPNews
Matchup Overview:
The 5-12 seed games are notorious for upsets, and Fairfield’s balanced offense could pose problems for Kansas State. This game has all the makings of a classic March Madness surprise.
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The 2025 Women’s March Madness first round is packed with compelling matchups that embody the tournament’s unpredictability and excitement. From powerhouse programs like UConn aiming to assert their dominance to potential Cinderella stories in teams like Murray State, the opening games set the tone for the drama and thrills to come.
As fans, we’re in for a treat, witnessing the passion, skill, and resilience that define women’s college basketball.
Don’t miss a moment of March Madness! Download your 2025 NCAA Tournament printable bracket and stay on top of every game, matchup, and Cinderella story. Get yours now!
