The 2024–25 Ivy League women’s basketball season was one for the history books. Harvard, Columbia, and Princeton all reached the NCAA Tournament — the first time in league history that three Ivy programs punched tickets to March Madness. Columbia even advanced out of the First Four, proving the Ancient Eight can compete nationally.
Heading into 2025–26, the Ivy League returns more than 75% of its total playing time from last season. With experienced rosters, battle-tested leaders, and growing NIL visibility, fans have plenty to get excited about.
From Princeton’s loaded backcourt to Columbia’s scoring firepower, here’s a full preview and fan-fueled look at the 2025–26 Ivy League women’s basketball season.
1. Princeton Tigers
After Columbia snapped their six-year title streak, Princeton looks hungry to reclaim the throne. Guard Ashley Chea, a unanimous first-team All-Ivy selection, headlines a talented lineup. Senior Madison St. Rose is back from injury and ready to lead, while Skye Belker and Fadima Tall round out a balanced veteran core.
2. Columbia Lions
Despite key departures (Cecilia Collins and Kitty Henderson), Columbia’s offense remains explosive. Riley Weiss, the Ivy’s second-leading scorer (17.8 PPG), anchors a talented group alongside Perri Page and Susie Rafiu. Expect Columbia to stay in the March Madness mix and attract growing NIL attention in New York’s media market.
3. Penn Quakers
Even with Stina Almqvist gone, Penn returns major contributors in Katie Collins (reigning Ivy Rookie of the Year) and Mataya Gayle. Guard Ese Ogbevire also returns from an ACL injury, giving the Quakers the depth to stay competitive.
4. Harvard Crimson
The post-Harmoni Turner era begins. Turner’s 44-point semifinal explosion is tough to replace, but Saniya Glenn-Bello and Katie Krupa are ready to step up. Harvard’s NIL growth potential remains strong with its national alumni base and media footprint.
5. Dartmouth Big Green
Three-point specialist Zeynep Ozel and rebound machine Olivia Austin lead an improving Dartmouth squad. Freshman Yufei Zou (IMG Academy) could be an instant-impact addition.
6. Brown Bears
Guard Grace Anolie returns as Brown’s scoring engine, joined by transfer Monet Witherspoon, the NESCAC Rookie of the Year from Tufts. The Bears are quietly building momentum both on the court and in NIL engagement.
7. Cornell Big Red
Losing Summer Parker-Hall hurts, but Emily Pape (10.8 PPG) and Rachel Knaus (9.6 PPG) return to lead. Freshman Ally Pape adds shooting depth — expect Cornell to be scrappy and competitive.
8. Yale Bulldogs
Coming off a 3–11 season, Yale has reloaded through the portal with Mary Meng (Michigan State) and Luisa Vydrova (UTEP). The Bulldogs’ size and athleticism should make them a tough out.
Fan Fuel Outlook
The Ivy League’s blend of academics, athletics, and NIL growth makes it one of the most fascinating conferences to watch. Fans can fuel Ivy athletes directly through RallyFuel, supporting verified NIL opportunities for players like Chea, Weiss, and Collins — while staying compliant and transparent.
Leave a Comment