ACC Women’s Basketball Outlook
While the men’s teams in the ACC have faced challenges getting into the NCAA Tournament lately, the women’s side has been quite the opposite. Over the past seven seasons, the ACC has consistently sent at least eight teams to March Madness, the best in the country during that time. The conference continues to showcase some of the top talent in women’s basketball.
This offseason saw notable changes in roster makeups across the league. Last year, 14 out of 20 all-conference selections returned, but this season only eight of 25 are back. This shift is partly due to the NCAA’s pandemic-related rulings limiting eligibility extensions and also a wave of transfers. For instance, five players who were All-ACC last year are now with other teams in Power 4 leagues, including Olivia Miles from Notre Dame, now at TCU, and Tanya Latson from Florida State, who has transferred to South Carolina. Additionally, standout Oluchi Onanwa, who earned MVP in the ACC Tournament, moved from Duke to Maryland.
Nevertheless, the ACC remains home to a wealth of talent and skilled coaches. This year, nine of ESPN’s top 30 recruits for 2025 are in the conference. Two new head coaches are stepping in to reshape their respective teams: Karen Blair at Georgia Tech and Adia Burns at SMU.
Let’s dive into the ACC, focusing on the players, coaches, and narratives that will define the upcoming season.
Big Question: Will ACC Supremacy Run Through the Triangle Again?
Not too long ago, Notre Dame and Louisville, both former members of the Big East, dominated the ACC. Between 2014 and 2024, they collectively reached the ACC Tournament finals nine out of eleven times, with Notre Dame claiming six titles and Louisville taking one in 2018. Both teams also made six trips to the Final Four during this period.
However, starting in 2020, the balance of power shifted back to the conference’s original core. North Carolina State secured three consecutive titles, while Virginia Tech not only reached the Final Four in 2023 but has made significant strides since. This March, all three Triangle teams—Duke, North Carolina State, and North Carolina—opened the tournament as top-16 seeds for the first time since 1998, all advancing to the Sweet 16 together for the first time since 2007.
In the ACC preseason poll, Duke, North Carolina State, and North Carolina filled the top three spots, a first since 2001. While the Wolfpack and Tar Heels are dealing with the loss of key players—like two first-round WNBA draft picks—the Blue Devils return four starters from an ACC Tournament-winning team that made it to the Elite Eight. Duke is deemed the preseason favorite, currently ranked seventh in the AP Top 25 poll.
This season’s outcome is still up in the air, but it looks like the ACC throne is currently held by the Triangle teams. The other fifteen teams have their work cut out for them as they chase after Duke, North Carolina State, and North Carolina.
Feeling Good: Miami
The Hurricanes struggled in Tricia Cullop’s first season, finishing 14-15 overall and missing the NCAA Tournament with a 4-14 league record.
However, Coach Cullop has been proactive, scrubbing the transfer portal to build what appears to be a strong incoming class. Leading the way is Gul Labib, a 5-foot-9 guard from Quinnipiac, who averaged nearly 18 points per game and impressed for Israel in the recent FIBA U19 World Cup.
Miami also acquired 6-foot-6 center La Shaya Kyle, who recorded 16 double-doubles last season at Florida, and Jessica Peterson, a transfer from SMU, who ranked nationally in rebounding last year. Adding to their roster, four freshmen listed in ESPN’s Top 100 for 2025 should bolster the team.
I Don’t Feel Well: Notre Dame
On the bright side, Notre Dame still boasts Hannah Hidalgo, last season’s ACC Player of the Year and a First Team All-American.
But the downside? The Irish lost several key players, including Olivia Miles and Kate Koval, who transferred, as well as others turning professional. This turnover leaves the team scrambling for depth and skill to replace last year’s promising lineup.
It’s also worth mentioning that while Coach Niele Ivey has brought in new talent from various schools, these players may not match the high caliber of last year’s squad.
While Hidalgo’s talent and Ivey’s coaching are valuable assets, it’s hard to predict an NCAA appearance for Notre Dame without substantial support around her.
Must-See for New Students: Emily Skinner, Duke
Skinner has the potential to be the best point guard under head coach Kara Lawson’s tenure thus far. Coming from a standout career as a McDonald’s and Jordan Brand All-American, she helped Team USA secure gold at the 2025 FIBA U19 World Cup. With her skill set, she’s expected to make a significant impact on Duke’s performance.
Under-the-Radar Shock Transmission: Laila Ferrier, Syracuse
Ferrier, previously a three-time All-Big Ten selection at Michigan, faced a challenging transition to Texas before ultimately making her way to Syracuse for her final eligibility year. She’s been expected to step up and play a crucial role for the Orange, especially after impressive performances in her prime season at Michigan.
Most Interesting Players: Laura Ziegler, Louisville
Last season’s star at St. Joe’s, Ziegler, attracted attention from top programs seeking frontcourt talent. Louisville won the race to acquire her, giving the team a versatile force as they look to make a title run. Her impressive stats from St. Joe’s and her unique skillset make her a player to watch this season.
Coaches on the Hot Seat: Amaka Agugua-Hamilton, Virginia
While some might argue that Wake Forest’s situation has stagnated, the pressure is mounting for Agugua-Hamilton. Virginia has a rich legacy in women’s basketball, and if the Cavaliers don’t perform well, her future could be questionable.
In her three seasons, Coach Mox has worked to restore Virginia’s reputation after a rough patch. However, current performance hasn’t mirrored the investment made in the program. With promising players like All-ACC guard Kyimora Johnson, expectations are high.
An NCAA Tournament spot would likely ensure job security, but falling short might lead to disappointment.
Duke University vs. LSU: December 4th, 9pm ET, ESPN
Will Duke prove to be a serious title contender this year? Their matchup against a top SEC team will provide valuable insight.
North Carolina vs. North Carolina State: February 2nd, 6pm ET, ESPN
This historic rivalry is always a spectacle, particularly with the new scheduling that means they’ll only face each other once this season. The matchup is emotionally charged, especially for North Carolina State as they host their annual Play4Kay game.
Stanford University vs. Clemson: March 1 at 2pm ET, The CW
In a rematch of last year’s ACC Tournament games, this final regular-season contest could greatly impact the upcoming postseason tournament. Both teams are anticipating a strong showing heading into March Madness.
