In the aftermath of the UConn vs. South Carolina NCAA Championship Game on April 6, 2025, fans and analysts are buzzing about who will emerge as the next Women’s Hoops Superstar. Among the top contenders are Sarah Strong, Lauren Betts, and Flau’jae Johnson.
Each of these athletes has been showcasing remarkable skills and a magnetic presence on the court. With their outstanding performances and support from strong collegiate programs, all three players are vying for the title of the face of Women’s College Basketball (WCB). Let’s take a closer look at who might ultimately seize the superstar spotlight.
The Next NCAA Women’s Hoops Superstar
Sarah Strong
Strong joined UConn as one of her class’s most sought-after recruits, facing immense expectations. In her debut game of the 2024-25 season, she averaged an impressive 21.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and three blocks per game.
This exceptional output from a freshman is rare, echoing the historic accomplishments of UConn great Breanna Stewart, a four-time national champion and WNBA MVP. Strong’s versatility is striking; she can shoot from long range, drive to the basket, and deliver pinpoint passes. Defensively, she excels with an average of three blocks per game, indicating her prowess at protecting the rim and disrupting opponents’ strategies.
Strong’s ability to maintain composure in high-pressure moments is noteworthy for someone so new to the scene, suggesting a bright future ahead. If she continues to perform at this elite level, Strong is well on her way to securing her place as the next NCAA Women’s Hoops Superstar.
Lauren Betts
Standing at 6’7″, Lauren Betts is a formidable presence as a junior center for UCLA, transforming the team into a national contender. This season, she delivered her career-best averages in points, rebounds, and blocks, shooting over 60% from the field while blocking more than 10% of opponents’ two-point attempts, showcasing her ability to change the dynamics of a game.
Betts has truly stepped up this season, evolving into a modern post player equipped with improved passing skills and court vision, connecting assists from the low block to open shooters. Her performance against South Carolina, a renowned program, demonstrated her potential to shine in future competitions.
Guided by head coach Cori Close, UCLA has climbed to the top of the rankings, and Betts serves as a key player. Her unique combination of size and skills invites comparisons to WNBA icons like A’ja Wilson. However, she faces an ongoing challenge—centers traditionally attract less attention than guards or wings, whose highlights typically dominate the media. Nonetheless, Betts’ significant impact and potential for double-doubles position her to redefine what it means to be a superstar center in WCB.
Flau’jae Johnson
Flau’jae Johnson, a sophomore at LSU, has made a name for herself this season, averaging about 22 points per game and playing a pivotal role in her team’s undefeated start. She excels not only as a scorer but also with her defensive agility, which keeps opposing players on their toes.
With a strong belief in her abilities, Johnson considers herself one of the top players in the nation. LSU’s head coach, Kim Mulkey, has empowered her to take charge as the offensive centerpiece, and she has embraced this role enthusiastically. Beyond basketball, she is also a budding rapper, blending her athletic pursuits with her music career.
Given their performances, Strong appears to be the frontrunner for the next NCAA women’s hoops superstar title. Her historic freshman statistics and UConn’s platform enhance her visibility. Nevertheless, both Betts and Johnson are also formidable challengers. Betts’ dominance in the paint and UCLA’s rise make her a dark horse, while Johnson’s vibrant style could shine brightly if LSU claims another title. Strong currently leads the pack, but the race remains competitive. Who’s your pick? The conversation continues.
