Caitlin Clark’s dominance in women’s college basketball last season was akin to a runaway train. Fast forward to midway through the 2024-25 season, and there are now four standout players vying for the title of national player of the year.
Among these contenders are three guards and a center from top 10 teams, showcasing a level of competition that promises suspense and excitement for fans. Leading the pack is sophomore standout Hannah Hidalgo from Notre Dame, who has surpassed last season’s freshman sensation, JuJu Watkins from USC.
In a head-to-head matchup in November, Hidalgo led Notre Dame to victory over USC, solidifying her position as a top contender. With impressive stats in scoring and steals, Hidalgo has proven her prowess on the court with consistently high performances.
But the competition doesn’t end there. Players like UConn’s Paige Bueckers and UCLA’s Lauren Betts are also in the running for the coveted national player of the year title. With each player bringing their unique strengths and contributions to their teams, the race for the top honor is heating up as we approach the NCAA tournament.
Stay tuned as ESPN’s experts weigh in on the top candidates and make their predictions for player of the year, best freshman, transfer, and coach. As the season progresses, the battle for supremacy in women’s college basketball is only getting more intense.
Don’t miss out on the latest updates and highlights from these phenomenal athletes as they compete for greatness on the hardwood. Who will emerge victorious as the national player of the year? Follow the action to find out.