dailyloe.com – The 2026 Women’s NCAA Tournament Elite Eight field is set after dominant Sweet 16 performances. All four top-seeded teams advanced with ease, continuing their championship pursuits. UConn, UCLA, Texas, and South Carolina now prepare for regional finals.
Six of the eight teams are repeat visitors from last year’s Elite Eight. Significant roster changes define this year’s contenders, however. UConn now plays without former star Paige Bueckers, while UCLA added Gianna Kneepkens.
The four No. 1 seeds won their regional semifinals by an average of 23.3 points. UCLA’s 19-point win was the closest contest among the top seeds. This demonstrates their overwhelming dominance in the tournament’s early stages.
Only two No. 2 seeds survived to reach this round. Michigan remains as a second seed, while Notre Dame enters as a sixth seed. Notre Dame’s return marks a comeback for the former perennial power.
South Carolina strengthened its roster by bringing Ta’Niya Latson aboard. TCU also presents a completely new look with Olivia Miles and Marta Suarez. These transfers have reshaped the competitive landscape this March.
The stage is now set for high-stakes regional final matchups. UConn remains the heavy favorite to win the national championship. The Huskies aim to continue their legacy despite key personnel changes.[]
Source: ESPN
