A Look into the 2025 Ivy League Women’s Basketball Preseason Poll
Before the season starts, Princeton holds the top spot while Penn is positioned fourth in the Ivy League. The women’s basketball Ancient Eight saw an unpredictable year last season, full of upsets and surprises.
Last season’s preseason favorite, Princeton, did not win either the regular season or the tournament title. Harvard, meanwhile, made history by earning its first-ever March Madness berth. Penn finished fourth and was the only Ivy team not to advance to March Madness, as the league sent three teams in total.
Princeton Tigers (21-8, 12-2 Ivy League)
Princeton ended its six-year regular-season title streak last year, missing the crown. Despite this setback, the Tigers are the clear preseason favorite, securing 17 out of 21 first-place votes in the new poll.
The team faced challenges after losing 2023 Ivy League Rookie of the Year Madison St. Rose to an ACL injury in November. However, Princeton’s younger players rose to the occasion. Guards Skye Belker and Fadima Tall now lead the team alongside guard Ashley Chea, who is the only returning unanimous first-team All-Ivy selection.
Columbia Lions
Columbia was historically the Ivy League’s consistent runner-up. After an impressive regular season and a program-first March Madness win, the Lions have proved they are a force to be reckoned with.
“The Lions cannot be underestimated after their breakthrough March Madness performance.”
Author's summary: The 2025 Ivy League women’s basketball preseason poll reflects shifting dynamics, with Princeton aiming to reclaim dominance despite last season’s challenges and Columbia emerging as a strong contender.