UConn heads into the 2026 women’s NCAA tournament as the No. 1 overall seed. The Huskies are aiming for their 13th NCAA title and seventh perfect season. But were the Huskies the most popular pick to win the national championship among college basketball analysts?
Unanimous Support for UConn in Fort Worth Region
UConn was selected as the Fort Worth 1 Region champion by all 22 voters. While no other team was a unanimous Final Four pick, the 1-seeds received a clear majority. South Carolina received 21 votes, Texas had 19 and UCLA 15.
Half of the voters picked all four No. 1 seeds to advance to the national semifinals. However, LSU, Duke, Michigan, Louisville and TCU also received at least one vote to reach Phoenix.
Championship Picks Beyond the Top Seed
UConn was picked to win the national title on 13 ballots. Fellow 1-seeds UCLA and Texas each received four votes to win the championship, while South Carolina received one.
Potential Challenges in Sacramento Region
The Sacramento 2 region looks loaded. However, as loaded as this region is, it doesn’t make the Bruins’ path any more difficult. Ole Miss is the team that could be a speed bump to the Bruins’ road to the Final Four.
Tough Road Through Fort Worth Region
Fort Worth 3 could be challenging, as well. No. 1 seed Texas will be close to home and riding its SEC tournament championship. No. 4 seed West Virginia won the Big 12 tournament and No. 3 seed Louisville probably should have won the ACC tournament, but fell in overtime to Duke. Michigan is a dangerous team, so if seeds hold, Fort Worth 3 could be compelling.
LSU’s Potential Path to the Final Four
LSU’s five losses were to SEC teams, including twice to South Carolina. The Tigers have guard play, led by Flau’jae Johnson, Mikaylah Williams and MiLaysia Fulwiley.
If seeds hold, LSU would have to beat UCLA, Texas and UConn or South Carolina for the championship.