Three Indiana squads qualify for the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament.

The 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament is seeing a historic level of participation from Indiana programs. For the first time in recent history, three squads from the Hoosier State—Purdue University, Indiana University, and Ball State University—have all earned spots in the tournament. This achievement speaks to the growth of women’s college basketball in the state and the significant strides that each of these programs has made in developing talent, refining their strategies, and building strong, competitive teams.

This article will take a deeper dive into each of these three teams, their journeys to the tournament, and how their success reflects both the current state of women’s basketball in Indiana and the broader trends in collegiate sports.

Purdue University: Boilermakers with a Legacy of Success

Purdue University’s women’s basketball program is one of the most established and successful in NCAA history. Under head coach Katie Gearlds, the Boilermakers have consistently been a force in the Big Ten Conference, and the 2024–2025 season is no exception.

The Purdue Boilermakers entered the tournament with a strong record, ranking among the top teams in the Big Ten. A mix of veteran leadership and talented underclassmen helped Purdue navigate a tough schedule. The Boilermakers had a strong showing in non-conference play, beating high-ranking teams from across the country, and they proved to be a tough contender in the Big Ten.

Key players such as senior guard Madison Layden and sophomore forward Bridget Dunn played crucial roles throughout the season. Layden, a skilled playmaker with excellent shooting range, was the team’s offensive engine, while Dunn’s athleticism and defensive prowess made her a standout on both ends of the court. The Boilermakers also benefitted from their depth, with multiple players contributing on any given night, a hallmark of Coach Gearlds’ emphasis on team basketball.

Purdue’s success can be attributed to its ability to adapt to different playing styles. In the Big Ten, the Boilermakers faced a range of teams from the defensive-minded, slower-paced teams to those that favored an up-tempo style. Gearlds’s ability to implement a versatile game plan helped Purdue remain competitive throughout the season. They were one of the most efficient teams in the nation, ranking in the top 10 in field goal percentage and defensive efficiency.

As the tournament approached, Purdue’s defense was one of its calling cards. They had one of the best defensive units in the country, known for their ability to force turnovers, block shots, and close out on three-point shooters. In March Madness, defense is often the difference between an early exit and a deep run, and Purdue will be looking to ride that strength as they advance through the bracket.

This is a crucial tournament for the Boilermakers, as they are looking to return to the Final Four for the first time since 2019. Their history in the NCAA Tournament includes several deep runs, with Purdue having reached the Elite Eight multiple times, making them one of the most consistent programs in the women’s tournament.

Indiana University: Hoosiers on the Rise

Indiana University, led by head coach Teri Moren, has been one of the most exciting teams in women’s college basketball over the past several seasons. The 2024–2025 season marked another banner year for the Hoosiers, who are quickly emerging as a powerhouse in the Big Ten and beyond.

Indiana’s journey to the tournament has been one of steady progress. The Hoosiers earned an at-large bid with a strong performance in the Big Ten, where they finished among the top teams in the conference. The team’s success has been driven by a combination of factors, including the excellent play of star players, a dynamic offensive scheme, and their aggressive defense.

One of the standout performers for the Hoosiers this season has been senior guard Grace Berger, who has played a key role as both a scorer and facilitator. Berger, a multi-dimensional player with an ability to create her own shot and distribute to teammates, has been one of the best players in the country. She averaged over 18 points per game and also contributed heavily in rebounds and assists. Her leadership on and off the court was instrumental to the Hoosiers’ success.

Alongside Berger, sophomore forward Mackenzie Holmes has been a dominant force inside. Known for her rebounding and shot-blocking ability, Holmes has proven to be one of the most efficient post players in the nation. Her combination of size, strength, and skill in the paint allows Indiana to control the boards and establish a physical presence.

Moren’s coaching philosophy emphasizes a balanced attack. Indiana is not reliant on one player, and the team’s depth allows them to maintain a high level of intensity throughout the game. While the Hoosiers are known for their offensive firepower, they are also one of the best defensive teams in the country, often frustrating opponents with their ability to limit scoring opportunities and execute in transition.

In addition to their success on the court, Indiana has also made strides in recruiting. The Hoosiers’ rise in prominence has allowed them to attract top-tier talent, and as a result, they have a young, dynamic roster that will likely continue to improve in the coming seasons.

Indiana’s success in the NCAA Tournament has been growing steadily, and 2025 marks their third consecutive appearance. They have advanced to the Sweet 16 in previous tournaments and are aiming for an even deeper run this year, with sights set on their first Final Four appearance in program history. With a well-balanced squad and strong leadership, the Hoosiers are certainly a team to watch this March.

Ball State University: Cardinals on the Upswing

Ball State University’s women’s basketball program has been on a remarkable upward trajectory in recent years, and their inclusion in the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament is a testament to their hard work and determination. Led by head coach Brady Sallee, Ball State has emerged as a dominant force in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) and has established itself as a team capable of competing with the best programs in the country.

Ball State’s season was highlighted by a strong performance in conference play, where they earned the top seed in the MAC Tournament. Their success in the regular season was built on a well-rounded roster, with several players stepping up to fill important roles. Their defense was particularly impressive, as they were able to stifle opposing offenses with their aggressive man-to-man pressure and ball-hawking style.

A key player for Ball State has been senior forward Thelma Okkonen, whose versatility as a scorer and rebounder made her a matchup nightmare for opposing teams. Okkonen, a tenacious rebounder, was also capable of stretching the floor with her ability to shoot from the outside, adding a dimension to the Cardinals’ offense. Alongside Okkonen, sophomore guard Sydney Freeman was a breakout player for Ball State, providing consistent scoring and playmaking from the backcourt.

The Cardinals also benefitted from the experience of their veteran leadership. Players like Okkonen, Freeman, and senior guard Anna Clephane brought both the skill and maturity needed to navigate the intense pressure of the NCAA Tournament. Their ability to play under pressure was evident as they outlasted some of the top teams in the MAC and pulled off some impressive victories.

Ball State has made significant strides in the NCAA Tournament in recent years, and this year’s appearance is their second consecutive trip to the big dance. While they may not have the same resources or recognition as some of the larger programs, their hard-nosed approach to the game has earned them respect across the country. Ball State has proven that with the right mix of coaching, talent, and determination, smaller programs can make their mark in March Madness.

The Impact on Indiana Women’s Basketball

The participation of Purdue, Indiana, and Ball State in the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament highlights the growing strength of women’s basketball in Indiana. The state, traditionally known for its love of basketball at all levels, has increasingly become a hotbed for talent and competition in the women’s game.

The success of these three programs reflects not only the growth of women’s basketball but also the importance of grassroots development and investment in women’s sports. The state of Indiana has seen an uptick in support for women’s basketball, with more young girls participating in the sport, as well as an increase in the visibility of women’s college basketball. This increased support from fans, local businesses, and communities has created an environment where the women’s game can thrive.

Moreover, the success of Indiana’s teams has garnered more attention from top recruits. High school players in the state are now recognizing that they can have a successful and rewarding college career in their home state, either at Purdue, Indiana, or Ball State. This has created a positive cycle, as local talent chooses to stay in-state, contributing to the success of these programs.

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament progresses, Purdue, Indiana, and Ball State will all have their eyes set on a deep run. Each program has unique strengths, and their paths to the tournament have been filled with both challenges and triumphs. Whether they make it to the Final Four or face an early exit, these three Indiana squads have already made history by representing the state on the national stage.

In the years to come, expect the rise of more Indiana-based programs in women’s basketball. The combination of passionate fan support, talented players, and experienced coaches is sure to continue driving the success of women’s basketball in Indiana, a state with an ever-growing basketball legacy.