The opening round of the 2026 Women’s NCAA Tournament delivered everything fans could ask for—record-breaking performances, dominant team showings, and breakout stars rising under the brightest lights. From elite scorers to all-around playmakers, several players and teams made strong statements as the road to the Final Four officially began.

Mikayla Blakes Is Owning March

Few players have had a more impactful start to the tournament than Vanderbilt sophomore Mikayla Blakes. She opened with a 30-point performance against High Point, setting a new single-season scoring record for the program while also climbing into the top 10 on Vanderbilt’s all-time scoring list—an incredible feat this early in her career.

She didn’t stop there. In a 75-57 win over Illinois, Blakes nearly recorded a triple-double with 25 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists. That performance not only pushed Vanderbilt into the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2009, but also etched her name into history with the NCAA sophomore scoring record. Blakes is proving she’s not just a scorer—she’s a complete offensive engine.

Azzi Fudd’s Scoring Explosion Powers UConn

UConn star Azzi Fudd reminded everyone why she’s one of the most dangerous scorers in the country. She erupted for 34 points against Syracuse, including a dominant 26-point first half where she essentially outscored the entire opposing team.

The Huskies were nearly flawless, highlighted by a historic 31-0 run. Fudd’s efficiency—13-of-18 shooting and 8-of-11 from three—set the tone for a UConn team that looks like a serious title contender.

TCU’s Dynamic Duo Steals the Spotlight

TCU showcased its versatility with two standout performances. Taylor Bigby delivered a career-high 27 points, shooting an incredible 8-of-10 from the field and 7-of-9 from deep. Her ability to stretch the floor adds another dimension to TCU’s offense.

Meanwhile, Olivia Miles controlled the game with her sixth triple-double of the season: 12 points, 16 rebounds, and 14 assists. Her assist total set a new program record, highlighting her elite vision and ability to break down defenses.

Hannah Hidalgo Continues Her Dominance

Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo continues to be one of the most relentless players in the country. She finished with 26 points, 13 rebounds, and 8 steals in a statement win over Ohio State.

Her two-way impact has been the driving force behind Notre Dame’s surge, as she’s now recorded nine straight 20-point performances. Her ability to score, defend, and create chaos makes the Irish a dangerous Sweet 16 team.

Star Power in Big Performances Across the Board

The tournament also featured several jaw-dropping individual efforts:

• Jaloni Cambridge exploded for 41 points and 7 rebounds for Ohio State, despite the upset loss to Notre Dame.
• Lauren Betts dominated for UCLA with 35 points and 9 rebounds, continuing her historic NCAA tournament scoring run.
• South Carolina showed its depth and dominance, placing five players in double figures in a commanding win, led by Joyce Edwards’ 23-point, 10-rebound performance.

Team Statements: Who Looks Like a Contender?

Several programs didn’t just win—they sent a message.

UCLA jumped out early and never looked back, showing how dangerous they are when they control tempo behind Lauren Betts’ interior dominance.

South Carolina has been overwhelming, winning its first two games by a combined 109 points while scoring 100+ in both—an almost unheard-of level of dominance.

UConn looks sharp on both ends of the floor, combining elite shooting with suffocating defense.

Vanderbilt is proving it’s more than just Blakes, with key contributions from supporting players like Aubrey Galvan and Justine Pissott.

Looking Ahead to the Sweet 16

The opening round made one thing clear: this tournament is loaded with star power and depth. Matchups like Vanderbilt vs. Notre Dame and South Carolina vs. Oklahoma will test whether early dominance can translate into deeper runs.

If the first round is any indication, we’re in for a March filled with elite guard play, breakout performances, and championship-level intensity.