Hidalgo, Betts, Booker Headline AP 2025-26 Preseason Women's Basketball All-America Team

The Associated Press has released its 2025-26 preseason women's college basketball All-America team, headlined by standout players Hannah Hidalgo of Notre Dame and Lauren Betts of UCLA, each earning 29 votes from a 31-member national media panel. Hidalgo, a sophomore guard who set Notre Dame's single-season scoring record, is expected to take on a larger role following the departure of other starters, while Betts, a senior center, led UCLA to its first Final Four and was the first UCLA player named National Defensive Player of the Year. Joining them on the team are UConn sophomore Sarah Strong, who contributed significantly to UConn's 12th national title with strong rebounding and defense, Texas junior Madison Booker, noted for her sharpshooting, and South Carolina senior Ta'Niya Latson, who transferred from Florida State. Hidalgo's leadership is underscored by Coach Niele Ivey's comments on her preparedness and support system, and Betts' impact was pivotal in UCLA's historic rise in national rankings. This elite group represents the top talent expected to shape the upcoming women's college basketball season.