Top women's basketball teams to clash in Las Vegas this Thanksgiving

In November 2025, South Carolina, UCLA, Duke, and Texas will compete in a groundbreaking round-robin women's college basketball tournament held in Las Vegas during Thanksgiving week. The event is notable as it marks the first-ever tentpole women’s college basketball multi-team event, showcasing a loaded field and offering players substantial name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities comparable to those granted to male counterparts. Seth Berger, CEO of Players Era, highlighted the significance of this championship, which not only prioritizes quality early season matchups but also elevates women’s sports on a national platform. The tournament will see each team playing against the other three, promising exciting matchups that set the tone for the remainder of the season. Currently, UCLA and South Carolina rank first and second respectively in the polls, while Texas and Duke occupy the sixth and ninth spots. The competitive spirit arises as South Carolina and UCLA faced each other in November, halting the Gamecocks' 43-game winning streak. South Carolina’s coach, Dawn Staley, expressed enthusiasm for participating in an event that offers both competitive games and significant exposure for players through NIL opportunities. Oregon recently won the men’s equivalent tournament at the MGM Grand Arena and there are high hopes for a similar level of excitement and competition for the women's championship. The inclusion of top-ranked teams in this event emphasizes the shifting landscape of women's college basketball, where elite programs are increasingly coming together to provide more engaging and lucrative opportunities for young female athletes. The rematch between UCLA and South Carolina, alongside new challenges presented by Texas and Duke, will not only influence team standings but also showcase the evolution of recognition and support for women’s sports. Philanthropic elements and the backing of powerful sponsors further enhance the prestige of this event, making it a focal point for fans and players alike. As this innovative tournament approaches, everyone involved looks forward to the profound impact it will have on the future of women’s college basketball.