NCAA swimming and diving is back in action

The GIST: Just a few weeks after your local pool emptied out for the fall, the NCAA’s swimming and diving teams are back in action. So, prep with our handy primer, slip on your bather à la these special guests at No. 3 Colgate’s women’s hockey game, and dive in.

The top schools: Virginia’s gals are back and better than ever, baby. The defending national women’s champs haven’t had their first official meet since Olympic medalist Kate Douglass graduated, but junior Gretchen Walsh is already filling her flippers with some solid times on the books.

• And while Virginia’s men are also impressive, their 2024 conference rival and defending men’s national champs, the Cal Bears, are feeling confident as they begin their title defense.

• Another squad to keep on your radar? Indiana. Their men’s and women’s teams both thrashed Kentucky at Wednesday’s dual meet. Their diving team, led by junior Skyler Liu, will be especially dangerous this season.

What’s next: The SMU Classic, which runs through tomorrow. All eyes will be on Texas’ men’s squad to see if they have the juice for another deep swim to the natty.

• And expect Louisville’s women to impress at the gals’ edition, too — not only are the Cardinals fierce contenders, but they really know how to party when it comes to the SMU Classic.