UCLA claims historic first No. 1 ranking in women's basketball
- UCLA defeated South Carolina, the previous top-ranked team, with a score of 77-62.
- This victory marked UCLA's first-ever top ranking in The Associated Press poll.
- The new ranking highlights the growth and competitiveness of UCLA's women's basketball program.
In a significant milestone for women's basketball, UCLA has ascended to the No. 1 spot in The Associated Press Top 25 poll for the first time, following a notable victory over South Carolina. This event occurred on Sunday when UCLA secured a commanding 77-62 win against the defending national champion. The win ended UCLA's 0-20 record against top-ranked teams, marking a historic moment in the school's athletic history. The victory and subsequent ranking have resonated deeply with the UCLA community, as the team's coach, Cori Close, emphasized the pride and joy that comes with achieving this milestone alongside alumni and the team. Despite this setback, South Carolina dropped from the top position for the first time in 43 games, while other teams in the poll, including USC and Iowa, also made notable moves. This shift in rankings reflects a broader dynamic in women’s college basketball, where the competition is becoming increasingly intense.