The season is heating up, and the picture is starting to come into focus. In this third edition of the rankings, we highlight the teams asserting themselves, the programs struggling to find consistency, and the breakout players shaping the national landscape.

UConn climbs to 9-0, powered by Azzi Fudd (18.2 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 3.1 APG, 53.4% from three) and Sarah Strong (17.9 PPG, 8.9 RPG, 5.1 APG, 3.4 SPG), who continue to set the tone on both ends.

The Longhorns (11–0) sit at No. 2 after stacking signature wins over UCLA, South Carolina, and most recently UNC. Madison Booker continues to anchor the team on both ends, averaging 17.5 PPG, 7.6 RPG, and 4.4 SPG.

The Gamecocks are 9–1 after coming up short against Texas in a top-five Thanksgiving matchup. Joyce Edwards (19.4 PPG, 6.1 RPG) is off to a strong sophomore campaign, while Ta’Niya Latson (17.7 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 3.3 APG, 53.8% FG) continues to be a reliable spark on both ends.

UCLA (9–1) dropped a game to Texas but responded with solid wins over Duke and Tennessee. The Bruins have five players averaging double figures — and four at 14.0+ PPG — with Gabriela Jaquez (14.8 PPG) setting the pace.

The Wolverines have improved to 8–1 behind Olivia Olson (18.2 PPG, 6.0 RPG), continuing to look sharp on both ends as they settle into their early-season rhythm.

LSU (10–0) faced their first real test of the season against Duke, but their depth ultimately overwhelmed the Blue Devils. MiLaysia Fulwiley (16.3 PPG, 4.0 SPG) and Flau’jae Johnson (16.1 PPG, 4.1 RPG) continue to set the tone for the Tigers.

The Terps (12–0) have shown remarkable resilience after losing three guards to season-ending injuries, including last year’s leading scorer Kaylene Smikle. Maryland is still awaiting the return of Bri McDaniel, whose eventual availability should provide a much-needed boost.

TCU is now 10–0 behind the incredible play of their dynamic duo, Marta Suarez (18.9 PPG, 6.2 RPG) and Olivia Miles (17.7 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 7.4 APG), who have consistently driven the momentum for the Horned Frogs all season.

Oklahoma (9–1) picked up a hard-fought win over NC State this past week, with freshman Aaliyah Chavez (19.1 PPG, 4.3 APG) continuing to impress in her first season.

Audi Crooks (27.8 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 72.2% FG) has been unstoppable, guiding the Cyclones to an 11–0 start this season.

The Hawkeyes are now 9–1, continuing their strong start to the season.

Southern Cal has improved to 7–2, with Jazzy Davidson (16.7 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 4.2 APG, 2.3 BPG) continuing to anchor the Trojans on both ends.

UNC (9–2) drops slightly in the rankings following a loss to Texas.

The Lady Bears improved to 9–1, led by Taliah Scott (23.8 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 4.0 APG), who continues to carry the team offensively.

Mikayla Blakes (25.7 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.9 APG, 3.7 SPG) has propelled the Commodores to a perfect 9–0 start this season.

The Rebels (8–1) earned a gritty win over Notre Dame but stumbled the following game against Kansas State.

The Fighting Irish (6-2) suffered a loss to Ole Miss during the ACC/SEC Women’s Challenge.

The Lady Vols (6–2) fell to UCLA without Lauren Betts but rebounded with a win over Stanford.

Kentucky enters the week with a 10–1 record.

The Buckeyes (7–1) recently notched an impressive win over West Virginia.

Oklahoma State currently sits at 10–1 on the season.

The Crimson Tide enters the rankings at 10–0, led by point guard Jessica Timmons (15.9 PPG, 3.1 APG) this season.

Washington (8–1) fell to USC this past week, ending their winning streak.

The Spartans (8–1) suffered an upset loss to Wisconsin this past week.

Nebraska enters the rankings following a 10–0 start, with key matchups against USC and Iowa on the horizon.