The Women’s College Basketball season tipped off this week with more than a few locals confident and hopeful they’ll (at least) be competing for a spot in the NCAA Tournament that wraps up in Phoenix.

Maryland (25-8 last year and 13-5 in the Big Ten) begins the year ranked No. 10, their highest preseason ranking since 2021.

This year’s Big Ten will no doubt be difficult to negotiate again with No. 3 UCLA, No. 13 Michigan, No. 18 USC, No. 21 Iowa and No. 23 Michigan State.

Washington and Ohio State just missed the Top 25 while Minnesota, Illinois and Nebraska also received votes. Brace yourselves for an eventful January and February.

Related stories • Atlantic 10 preview: High hopes for VCU and GW, and a new roster for George Mason • Georgetown Men’s Basketball Preview: Hoyas hoping

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