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The 13 Best Early Nonconference Women's Basketball Games
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The 13 Best Early Nonconference Women's Basketball Games

With the start of women's college basketball just around the corner, here are 13 of the best early-season non-conference matchups to watch on your TV.

Aflac Oui Play – November 4th, opening day

Paris did not disappoint last year, and I expect the second round of NCAA women's basketball games played on French soil to be nothing short of great. And this time twice as much fun!

I'm excited about the frontcourt duel between USC's Kiki Iriafen and Ole Miss' Madison Scott.

Both games are a clash between two legendary coaches, UCLA's Cori Close and Louisville's Jeff Walz, looking to deliver a masterclass of two different styles. Both games could set us up for some early impacts on the AP Rankings.

Ally Tipoff in Charlotte – November 10th

  • South Carolina vs. NC State

It's a rematch of last year's Final Four, where we saw the Gamecocks advance to become three-time national champions. Both teams will be looking to establish dominance at the start of the season. Additionally, NC State's Saniya Rivers will face her former team.

Kentucky vs. Louisville – November 16th

This intrastate rivalry is always intense as both programs have strong histories. Kentucky has built a competitive squad, while Louisville is consistently among the elite. These games often have high stakes and the fierce pride of the locals adds to the atmosphere.

USC vs. Notre Dame – November 23rd

USC and Notre Dame both have rich traditions with rising stars in the game. This matchup features strong recruiting classes and dynamic players. Given Notre Dame's storied program and USC's resurgence, expect a competitive game that will bring March Madness vibes.

UCLA vs. South Carolina – November 24th

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

UCLA and South Carolina are two powerhouses that have had recent success. 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 college sports. The West Coast vs. SEC battle always draws attention and will have a significant impact on the rankings.

South Carolina vs. Iowa State – Nov. 28 in Fort Myers

The defending champions face a young and hungry team that can compete in terms of physicality and size. Iowa State has turned heads in recent seasons and will continue to prove it can compete with the best of the best.

SEC/ACC Challenge – December 5th

Since both teams have a strong presence in the tournament landscape, this duel promises to be an exciting one. From elite guard play to juggernaut defense, the mix of styles makes for an exciting game. Also fun guard game between Olivia Miles, Hannah Hidalgo, Madison Booker and Rori Harmon.

When I see this matchup, the first thing that comes to mind is defense. The coaching duel between Staley and Duke's Kara Lawson – two NCAA and WNBA standouts who have quickly made a name for themselves as head coaches – adds an exciting flavor to this matchup.

Champions Class at Barclays Center – December 7th

Walz and UConn's Geno Auriemma are two of the most respected coaches in the industry, both of whom have built two powerful programs. As if the Battle of the Titans couldn't be more exciting, UConn-Louisville will face off in one of the most famous arenas, making this matchup a captivating outcome.

Iowa vs. Iowa State – December 11th

The Cy-Hawk rivalry is pretty fierce in Iowa – talk about bragging rights! Both teams have passionate fan bases and talented rosters. The intensity and local pride make this game must-see television for Big Ten and Big 12 opponents.

Notre Dame vs. UConn – December 12th

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

As two of the most prestigious programs in women's college basketball, this rivalry is always a highlight when they meet. Both teams have met in crucial games in the past, including in the NCAA Tournament. The last time they met, Hidalgo delivered an iconic standout game as a freshman, leading Notre Dame to a 25-point win in front of the UConn home crowd.

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

There's no shortage of star power in this matchup featuring two of the game's biggest faces: UConn's Paige Bueckers and Iowa State's Audi Crooks. Both programs have not shied away from putting together a rigorous schedule to prepare for March Madness. This will give both teams a comprehensive temperature check before starting conference play and could have a significant impact on the AP rankings.

UConn vs. USC – December 21st

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

An Elite Eight rematch that halted USC's historic run. Both teams could be in the Final Four or possibly the championship game by the end of the 2024-25 season. This match is a tournament-level game that will attract national attention and will see both teams look to make a statement.

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