{"id":570302,"date":"2026-01-30T07:26:53","date_gmt":"2026-01-30T07:26:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/570302\/"},"modified":"2026-01-30T07:26:53","modified_gmt":"2026-01-30T07:26:53","slug":"coaches-poll-womens-ranking-released-after-week-13","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/570302\/","title":{"rendered":"Coaches poll women\u2019s ranking released after Week 13"},"content":{"rendered":"

The road to the NCAA Tournament is heating up, and the latest coaches\u2019 poll reflects a landscape where every possession counts. While the top tier remains formidable, the middle of the pack is a chaotic battleground of rising contenders and fading powerhouses. This week sees a new entry cracking the Top 25 and significant movement within the SEC, proving once again that conference play is the ultimate proving ground. Here is the full breakdown of the nation\u2019s elite as voted by the coaches.<\/p>\n

25. Georgia Bulldogs\"\"Jan 11, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Ta\u2019niya Latson (00) and Georgia Bulldogs forward Zhen Craft (8) battle for the ball in the second half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Record: 18-3 | Points: 58<\/p>\n

It\u2019s been a long time coming, but the Lady Bulldogs have finally barked their way into the Top 25. After knocking on the door for weeks, a pair of massive wins against ranked SEC opponents, including a statement victory over Ole Miss, convinced the coaches that Georgia is for real. Their defense has been suffocating, and with momentum on their side, they look ready to disrupt the conference hierarchy.<\/p>\n

24. Washington Huskies\"\"Washington Huskies guard Hannah Stines (1) looks to pass between Ohio State Buckeyes guard Jaloni Cambridge (22) and guard Chance Gray (21) during the first half of the NCAA women\u2019s basketball game at Value City Arena in Columbus on Feb. 2, 2025.<\/p>\n

Record: 16-4 | Points: 73<\/p>\n

The Huskies hold steady in the rankings, proving that their resurgence is no fluke. Navigating the treacherous waters of their conference schedule, they\u2019ve managed to grind out key wins that keep their tournament resume polished. The coaches clearly respect their ability to compete night in and night out, rewarding them with a spot among the nation\u2019s best as they eye a strong finish to the regular season.<\/p>\n

23. North Carolina Tar Heels\"\"Oct 30, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Nyla Harris (2) steals the possession against South Carolina Gamecocks center Madina Okot (11) during the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Record: 17-5 | Points: 104<\/p>\n

Despite a few stumbles, the Tar Heels remain a dangerous team with the talent to beat anyone on a given night. Their drop in the polls reflects the brutal nature of the ACC, but their 17 wins speak to a squad that knows how to close out games. They\u2019ll need to tighten up their consistency to climb back up, but for now, they remain a fixture in the national conversation.\u200b<\/p>\n

22. Alabama Crimson Tide\"\"Mar 24, 2025; College Park, Maryland, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide guard Sarah Ashlee Barker (3) drives past Maryland Terrapins guard Mir McLean (10) during the first half at Xfinity Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Record: 18-3 | Points: 121<\/p>\n

Roll Tide is rolling right along on the hardwood. Alabama continues to impress with an 18-3 record that showcases its explosive scoring ability. They\u2019ve managed to handle their business against unranked foes while staying competitive in the SEC gauntlet. The coaches have kept them firmly in the Top 25, recognizing a team that has the firepower to make noise in March.\u200b<\/p>\n

21. West Virginia Mountaineers\"\"Jan 11, 2026; Ames, Iowa, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers forward Kierra Wheeler (22) celebrates after they beat the Iowa State Cyclones during the second half at James H. Hilton Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Reese Strickland-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Record: 17-4 | Points: 144<\/p>\n

Known for their relentless press and defensive intensity, the Mountaineers are a nightmare matchup for anyone. Moving up a spot this week, they continue to prove that their style of play travels well. With 17 wins in the bank, they are positioning themselves as a tough out in the Big 12, capable of turning any game into a chaotic scramble that favors their grit.<\/p>\n

20. Texas Tech Lady Raiders\"\"Texas Tech\u2019s Jalynn Bristow sports a 1993 national champions shirt prior to a non-conference women\u2019s basketball game against Arkansas on Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025, at United Supermarkets Arena. The 1993 Lady Raiders were inducted into the Ring of Honor.<\/p>\n

Record: 20-2 | Points: 156<\/p>\n

Reaching the 20-win plateau this early is a massive achievement, and the Lady Raiders are reaping the rewards. Despite a slight slide in the rankings, their record is undeniable. They have turned Lubbock back into a fortress, and their balanced attack makes them one of the more complete teams in the country. The coaches are still buying stock in what Tech is building.\u200b<\/p>\n

19. Princeton Tigers\"\"Dec 8, 2022; Storrs, Connecticut, USA; Princeton Tigers guard Grace Stone (10) reacts after her basket against the UConn Huskies in the first half at Harry A. Gampel Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports<\/p>\n

Record: 17-1 | Points: 208<\/p>\n

The Tigers continue to be the standard-bearers for the Ivy League, dominating their competition with surgical precision. At 17-1, they have taken care of business against almost everyone lined up across from them. While their strength of schedule is always a talking point, the coaches respect their consistency and discipline, keeping them comfortably inside the top 20.\u200b<\/p>\n

18. Kentucky Wildcats\"\"Wildcats\u2019 Asia Boone 8 steals the ball from Mikaylah Williams 12, LSU Tigers Women\u2019s Basketball takes on the Kentucky Wildcats. Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026.<\/p>\n

Record: 17-5 | Points: 242<\/p>\n

It was a tough week for the Wildcats, who dropped six spots after losing to Tennessee and Georgia. Injuries have played a role, but the SEC waits for no one. Still, their 17-5 record provides a solid cushion, and the talent on the roster is undeniable. They\u2019ll need to regroup quickly to stop the bleeding, but they remain a dangerous squad when healthy.\u200b<\/p>\n

17. Ole Miss Rebels\"\"Ole Miss Rebels cornerback Tavoy Feagin (21) dribbles up the court during a women\u2019s college basketball game between Ole Miss and Mississippi State at the Sandy and John Black Pavilion in Oxford, Miss. on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026.<\/p>\n

Record: 17-4 | Points: 263<\/p>\n

The Rebels are a team built on defense and toughness, and despite a setback against Georgia, they remain a formidable foe. Yolett McPhee-McCuin has instilled a culture of resilience in Oxford, and their ranking reflects a team that has proven it can battle with the best. They\u2019ll be looking to bounce back and reassert themselves in the SEC pecking order.\u200b<\/p>\n

16. Maryland Terrapins\"\"Mar 28, 2025; Birmingham, AL, USA; Maryland Terrapins guard Kaylene Smikle (2) works against South Carolina Gamecocks guard Tessa Johnson (5) during the second half of a Sweet 16 NCAA Tournament basketball game at Legacy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Record: 17-4 | Points: 321<\/p>\n

Maryland takes a small dip this week but remains a major player in the Big Ten. Their high-powered offense can light up the scoreboard, but defensive lapses have cost them in key moments. Still, the Terps are a team with Final Four pedigree, and the coaches know better than to count them out as the stakes get higher.\u200b<\/p>\n

15. Tennessee Lady Volunteers\"\"Tennessee Lady Volunteers forward Janiah Barker (0) gets ready to drive to the basket as Middle Tennessee guard Blair Baugus (12) guards her during the NCAA women\u2019s basketball game on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, at Middle Tennessee.<\/p>\n

Record: 14-3 | Points: 369<\/p>\n

The Lady Vols are trending upward, climbing two spots after a strong showing in conference play. With a 14-3 record, they are playing their best basketball of the season, fueled by a dominant frontcourt and improved guard play. The iconic orange-and-white brand is looking strong again, and the coaches are taking notice of its resurgence.\u200b<\/p>\n

14. Baylor Bears\"\"Baylor Bears guard Taliah Scott (0) shoots the ball over Iowa State Cyclones\u2019 guard Arianna Jackson (2) during the fourth quarter in the Big-12 women\u2019s basketball on Jan. 4, 2026, at Hilton Coliseum in Ames, Iowa.<\/p>\n

Record: 18-3 | Points: 395<\/p>\n

Baylor holds steady at 14, remaining a model of consistency in the Big 12. Their 18-3 record is built on a physical style of play that wears opponents down. They may not be grabbing all the headlines, but they are quietly assembling a resume that will earn them a very favorable seed come tournament time.\u200b<\/p>\n

13. Michigan State Spartans\"\"Mar 24, 2025; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Michigan State Spartans forward Grace VanSlooten (14) drives towards NC State Wolfpack center Lorena Awou (1) during the second half at James T. Valvano Arena at William Neal Reynolds. Mandatory Credit: William Howard-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Record: 18-2 | Points: 407<\/p>\n

The Spartans are one of the pleasant surprises of the season, jumping two spots this week. Their 18-2 record is no accident; it\u2019s the result of a cohesive unit that executes on both ends of the floor. They have navigated the Big Ten with impressive poise, and the coaches are recognizing their stellar play.\u200b<\/p>\n

12. Ohio State Buckeyes\"\"Ohio State Buckeyes guard Kennedy Cambridge (3) shoots the ball against Penn State Nittany Lions guard Nyla McFadden (8) in the second half of the NCAA basketball game at Value City Arena on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio.<\/p>\n

Record: 18-3 | Points: 418<\/p>\n

Ohio State drops a spot but remains a dangerous threat in the Big Ten. Their full-court press can cause chaos for 40 minutes, and when their shots are falling, they can beat anyone in the country. They\u2019ll look to tighten up their defense as they prepare for the stretch run of the conference season.\u200b<\/p>\n

11. Oklahoma Sooners\"\"Oklahoma coach Jennie Baranczyk talks with players during an NCAA women\u2019s basketball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and the LSU Tigers at Lloyd Noble Center in Norman, Okla., Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026. LSU won 91-72.<\/p>\n

Record: 16-4 | Points: 434<\/p>\n

The biggest movers of the week, the Sooners rocketed up five spots after massive wins over South Carolina and Auburn. Freshman sensation Aaliyah Chavez has been electric, elevating the entire team. Oklahoma is peaking at the right time, and the rest of the country is officially on notice.\u200b<\/p>\n

10. TCU Horned Frogs\"\"Mar 31, 2025; Birmingham, AL, USA; TCU Horned Frogs guard Donovyn Hunter (4) sets up on defense against the Texas Longhorns during the second half of an Elite 8 NCAA Tournament basketball game at Legacy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Record: 19-2 | Points: 489<\/p>\n

TCU cracks the top 10, validating a season that has been nothing short of spectacular. Their gritty defense and timely shot-making have made them a force in the Big 12. At 19-2, they have proven they belong in the conversation with the nation\u2019s elite, and the coaches agree.\u200b<\/p>\n

9. Michigan Wolverines\"\"Michigan Wolverines forward Alyssa Crockett (20) passes the ball Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, during the NCAA women\u2019s basketball game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Mackey Arena in West Lafayette, Ind. Michigan won 87-60.<\/p>\n

Record: 17-3 | Points: 536<\/p>\n

The Wolverines continue their steady climb, moving up two spots on the strength of a balanced attack. They are playing smart, disciplined basketball that wins games in the Big Ten. With 17 wins, they are locking in their status as a legitimate contender for a deep March run.\u200b<\/p>\n

8. Iowa Hawkeyes\"\"Dec 20, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes guard Taylor Stremlow (1) dribbles the ball against UConn Huskies guard Azzi Fudd (35) during the first half at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Pamela Smith-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Record: 18-2 | Points: 546<\/p>\n

Iowa jumps two spots, reasserting itself as a top-tier power. The Hawkeyes have navigated their schedule with impressive offensive firepower, proving that their system works regardless of the personnel. They remain one of the most entertaining and dangerous teams in the nation.\u200b<\/p>\n

7. Louisville Cardinals\"\"Jan 4, 2026; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Louisville Cardinals forward Elif Istanbulluoglu (11) celebrates with guard Tajianna Roberts (22) during the second half against the Virginia Tech Hokies at KFC Yum! Center. Louisville defeated Virginia Tech 85-60. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Record: 19-3 | Points: 549<\/p>\n

Louisville holds firm at number seven, continuing to play the kind of tough, defensive-minded basketball that is a hallmark of Jeff Walz\u2019s teams. Their 19-3 record is a testament to their consistency and ability to grind out wins in the ACC.\u200b<\/p>\n

6. Vanderbilt Commodores\"\"Vanderbilt Commodores guard Aubrey Galvan (3) dribbles the ball down the court against Virginia Cavaliers guard Romi Levy (23) during the women\u2019s basketball game between the Vanderbilt Commodores and Virginia Cavaliers at Vanderbilt\u2019s Memorial Gymnasium in Nashville on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025.<\/p>\n

Record: 20-1 | Points: 625<\/p>\n

The Commodores are the real deal. Sitting at 20-1, they have been one of the best stories of the year, climbing two spots this week. Their resurgence under Shea Ralph has been remarkable, and they are now legitimate threats to challenge for the SEC crown.\u200b<\/p>\n

5. LSU Lady Tigers\"\"Nov 30, 2023; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; LSU Lady Tigers forward Angel Reese (10) pumps up the crowd during the first half against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Pete Maravich Assembly Center. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Hinton-USA TODAY Sports<\/p>\n

Record: 19-2 | Points: 635<\/p>\n

LSU remains a top-five fixture, bringing swagger and star power to every game. Their 19-2 record speaks for itself, and despite the target on their back, they continue to handle their business. They are built for the bright lights of the postseason.\u200b<\/p>\n

4. Texas Longhorns\"\"Jan 18, 2026; Austin, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns guard Aaliyah Crump (23) gets control of the ball from Texas A&M Aggies guard Pien Steenbergen (7) during the second half at Moody Center. Mandatory Credit: Dustin Safranek-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Record: 19-2 | Points: 657<\/p>\n

The Longhorns stay put at number four, continuing to dominate with their size and athleticism. They have been a force all season, and at 19-2, they look every bit like a team capable of making a run to the Final Four.\u200b<\/p>\n

3. South Carolina Gamecocks\"\"Jan 15, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Tessa Johnson (5) celebrates a play with guard Ta\u2019niya Latson (00) against the Texas Longhorns in the second half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Record: 20-2 | Points: 710<\/p>\n

Despite a rare loss to Oklahoma, the Gamecocks remain a terrifying opponent. Their depth and defense keep them in the top three, and they will likely use the setback as fuel. They are still the team to beat in the eyes of many.<\/p>\n

2. UCLA Bruins\"\"Jan 21, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; UCLA Bruins center Lauren Betts (51) congratulates guard Charlisse Leger-Walker (5) after a 3-point basket in the second half against the Purdue Boilermakers at Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescom Financial. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Record: 19-1 | Points: 738<\/p>\n

The Bruins move up to number two, capitalizing on South Carolina\u2019s stumble. Their 19-1 record is pristine, and they have looked dominant on both ends of the floor. They are playing like a team on a mission to bring a title back to Westwood.<\/p>\n

1. UConn Huskies\"\"Jan 7, 2026; Hartford, Connecticut, USA; UConn Huskies forward Sarah Strong (21) drives the ball to the basket against the St. John\u2019s Red Storm in the first half at PeoplesBank Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Record: 21-0 | Points: 775<\/p>\n

Unanimous and undefeated. The Huskies sit alone at the top, receiving all 31 first-place votes. At 21-0, they have answered every challenge and look like the clear favorites to cut down the nets. Geno Auriemma has his team playing at a level that is simply a cut above the rest.<\/p>\n

The countdown continues\"\"Ohio State Buckeyes guard Kennedy Cambridge (3) shoots the ball against Penn State Nittany Lions guard Nyla McFadden (8) in the second half of the NCAA basketball game at Value City Arena on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio.<\/p>\n

With the calendar about to flip to February, the intensity will only ramp up. The teams in this poll have separated themselves as the best in the country, but the difference between winning a title and going home early is often just one bad night. As conference tournaments approach, every game becomes a statement, and these 25 teams know that the real season is just getting started.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The road to the NCAA Tournament is heating up, and the latest coaches\u2019 poll reflects a landscape where…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":570303,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3723],"tags":[7,217,231,772,1544,6135],"class_list":{"0":"post-570302","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-ncaa-basketball","8":"tag-basketball","9":"tag-college-basketball","10":"tag-ncaa","11":"tag-ncaa-basketball","12":"tag-ncaab","13":"tag-womens-college-basketball"},"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/channels.im\/@nba\/115982871383624430","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/570302","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=570302"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/570302\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/570303"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=570302"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=570302"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=570302"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}