Washington Huskies Defeat South Dakota State Jackrabbits in NCAA Tournament First Round
FORT WORTH, Texas – The No. 6 seed Washington Huskies defeated the No. 11 seed South Dakota State Jackrabbits 72-54 in the first round of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas. This marks Washington’s first NCAA Tournament victory since 2017.
Game Highlights
Avery Howell led the Huskies with 30 points and nine rebounds. The Jackrabbits started strong, building a 13-3 lead in the first five minutes, but Washington quickly recovered. The game was tied at 15 when Howell hit a three-pointer with 50 seconds remaining in the first quarter. Howell then made another three-pointer early in the second quarter to supply Washington the lead, which they would not relinquish.
Howell, a transfer from Southern California, finished the game with seven three-pointers. “That allowed me to have some experience and just feel really comfortable in these type of high-pressure situations,” Howell said. “That just allows me to hopefully be a calming presence on the court and just be there for my teammates and for my coaches in any way that I can.”
Brooklyn Meyer scored 29 points and grabbed seven rebounds for South Dakota State, while Emilee Fox added 14 points. Brynn McGaughy contributed 14 points for Washington.
Team Statistics
Washington Huskies (22-10):
- Avery Howell: 30 points, 9 rebounds
- Brynn McGaughy: 14 points
South Dakota State Jackrabbits (27-7):
- Brooklyn Meyer: 29 points, 7 rebounds
- Emilee Fox: 14 points
What’s Next for Washington
With this victory, Washington (22-10) advances to the next round of the NCAA Tournament. Their next opponent has not yet been determined.
Game Details
Date: March 20, 2026
Location: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth, Texas
Result: Washington 72, South Dakota State 54