In an unexpected twist at this year’s NCAA women’s tournament bracket reveal, USC head coach Lindsay Gottlieb expressed dissatisfaction with her team’s seeding as the fourth No. 1 seed, especially given their placement in the same bracket as powerhouse UConn. This reveal not only raised eyebrows but also sparked discussions about the seeding process and its implications for the competitive landscape.
The UConn Conundrum
Lindsay Gottlieb did not mince words when she addressed the media after the bracket was unveiled, signaling a mix of disbelief and frustration. “I never thought I’d be a one seed and feel disrespected,” Gottlieb remarked, questioning the fairness of the seeding. “But I thought there would be very little chance we would be the No. 4 overall No. 1.”
USC’s journey to the tournament as a No. 1 seed was marked by notable achievements, including regular-season victories over UCLA, who went on to clinch the Big Ten championship. Despite these victories, the Trojans were positioned behind their rivals in the latest AP poll, further fueling Gottlieb’s grievances.
What Lies Ahead for USC and UConn
The heart of the issue seems to center around the placement of UConn as the No. 2 seed in USC’s bracket. This setup not only challenges USC early in the tournament but also raises questions about UConn’s own seeding. “We’ve got a big game here on Saturday against UNCG. We’ll handle it accordingly. But you tell me if you think that bracket that we got should’ve been the one that it was,” Gottlieb challenged, spotlighting the looming battle against UConn.
UConn, coached by the seasoned Geno Auriemma, was expected by many to be a No. 1 seed. The Huskies opened with the second-shortest odds to win the championship, just behind South Carolina, indicating a general consensus of their top-tier status. This discrepancy between expectations and the committee’s decision adds an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming games, especially with the potential early clash between USC’s JuJu Watkins and UConn’s Paige Bueckers.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on USC to see how they manage the pressure of their challenging path. With a seasoned coach like Gottlieb at the helm, the Trojans are likely to use this perceived slight as a motivational tool. Meanwhile, fans can look forward to what could be one of the most electrifying matchups of the tournament, should both teams advance to face each other.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.