The Sweet 16 field is set with some expected matchups and a few surprises. The left side of the bracket includes every No. 1 through No. 4 seed, while the right side has lower seeds with a No. 5 and a No. 7 seed. There is speculation about whether more chaos will ensue in the regionals or if the top seeds will continue to thrive. The matchups are broken down, and predictions are provided for each game.
On Friday, the first matchup is between the Fighting Irish and the Beavers. Notre Dame, fueled by star freshman guard Hannah Hidalgo, plays a fast-paced game with a focus on scoring in transition. Oregon State, on the other hand, is efficient from around the rim and from 3-point range. It will be interesting to see how each team’s style of play affects the outcome of the game. Notre Dame is predicted to come out on top in this matchup.
Next, the Hoosiers face off against undefeated South Carolina. Indiana is coming off a big win against Oklahoma, but they will have their hands full with star center Kamilla Cardoso and the Gamecocks, who are the heavy favorites to win it all. South Carolina is favored to win this matchup and advance to the next round.
In the NC State vs. Stanford game, the Wolfpack’s guards will be a key focus as they take on the deliberate and efficient offense of the Cardinal. Stanford will aim to limit NC State’s wings and control the pace of the game. Stanford is predicted to come out on top in this low turnover game.
Gonzaga, coming off a victory against Utah, will face a tough challenge from Texas, led by star freshman Madison Booker. The Bulldogs have a strong 3-point shooting percentage, but Texas’ dominant offense and rebounding prowess give them the edge in this matchup. Texas is predicted to win and advance to the Elite Eight.
On Saturday, LSU and UCLA meet in a highly anticipated matchup between two powerhouse teams. LSU, the defending champions, have a talented roster and experience on their side, while UCLA boasts a deep and talented team. LSU is predicted to come out on top in a close contest.
Iowa and Colorado will face off in a rematch from last year’s Sweet 16. Iowa will look to bounce back from a tough offensive performance in their previous game, while Colorado will rely on their aggressive defense and fastbreak scoring. Iowa is predicted to win this matchup and advance to the next round.
In the USC vs. Baylor game, both teams have strong offenses with pro-style concepts and spacing. USC’s size and defensive capabilities give them the edge in this matchup. USC is predicted to win and advance to the next round.
Finally, UConn takes on Duke in what is expected to be a low-scoring matchup. UConn’s star player Paige Bueckers has been dominant in the tournament, while Duke will rely on their physical defense and offensive output from guard Reigan Richardson. UConn is predicted to win and advance to the next round.
