A look into the 2025 Ivy League women’s basketball preseason poll
Before the 2025 season begins, Princeton is projected to lead the Ivy League, while Penn is placed fourth. Last year brought many surprises and upsets to the women's basketball Ancient Eight.
Last Season Highlights
Princeton, the preseason favorite, failed to secure either the regular-season or tournament championship. Meanwhile, Harvard made history by earning its first-ever March Madness appearance. Penn finished fourth and was the only Ivy League team not to advance to March Madness, as three teams qualified from the conference.
Princeton Tigers (21-8, 12-2 Ivy League)
Princeton's six-year run as regular-season champions ended last year. Despite this, they remain strong contenders, capturing 17 of 21 first-place votes in the 2025 preseason poll. The team faced adversity losing 2023 Ivy League Rookie of the Year Madison St. Rose to an ACL injury last November. However, younger players rose to the challenge.
- Guards Skye Belker and Fadima Tall are expected to lead the squad.
- Ashley Chea, the only returning unanimous first-team All-Ivy player, continues as a key contributor.
Columbia Lions
Once known as the Ivy League's perennial runner-up, Columbia had a breakthrough last season. They dominated the regular season and achieved their first-ever March Madness victory, making them a team to watch this year.
“The Lions cannot be underestimated after their historic March Madness win.”
Author's summary: Princeton remains the preseason favorite despite last season’s upset, Harvard and Columbia showed historic strides, and Penn aims for a stronger showing in 2025.