Previewing the week’s biggest women’s college basketball games

The GIST: This week’s slate of women’s basketball games features several top-25 contests with major postseason implications. With March just one month away, the stakes are officially raised.

No. 9 TCU Horned Frogs at No. 12 Kansas State Wildcats — Today at 7:30 p.m. ET — ESPN+: The winner of this matchup will take sole possession of the Big 12’s top spot. Expect a point guard battle between TCU’s Hailey Van Lith, who averages 18.7 points per game, and K-State’s Serena Sundell, who leads the country with 166 assists. It’s a guard-eat-guard world.

No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes at No. 1 UCLA Bruins — Today at 9:30 p.m. ET — Peacock: On the line? First place in the Big Ten, a shot at a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament, and UCLA’s status as Division I’s only undefeated team, women’s or men’s. Cancel your plans and pop some popcorn — this one’s a must-see.

No. 5 UConn Huskies at No. 19 Tennessee Volunteers — Tomorrow at 6:30 p.m. ET — ESPN: Two of the country’s most historic programs will meet for the 27th time, with UConn holding a 17-9 advantage. This rivalry started in 1995 with the late Pat Summitt coaching the Vols against Geno Auriemma’s rising Huskies, and it promises even more drama 30 years later.

No. 24 Vanderbilt Commodores at No. 4 Texas Longhorns — Tomorrow at 9 p.m. ET — SECN: Vanderbilt already has two SEC upsets to its name, but beating Texas would take its postseason resume to another level. Meanwhile, sophomore sensation Madison Booker and the Longhorns are seeking a No. 1 seed come March.