UConn's Strong and USC's Watkins lead preseason AP All-American team

UConn's Sarah Strong and USC's JuJu Watkins are the top players named to the preseason AP All-America women's college basketball team, announced on October 22, 2026. Strong and Watkins have previously won The Associated Press Player of the Year award in consecutive years. Their selection highlights the anticipation for the upcoming college basketball season, where both players are expected to play pivotal roles for their respective teams. The release of this team sets the stage for further discussions around rankings and player performances leading into the season.

• 5:43 PMESPN — UConn's Strong, USC's Watkins headline preseason AP All-American women's team