ACC Women's Basketball Struggles in SEC Challenge

The ACC faced a significant setback during the SEC/ACC Challenge, concluding with a disappointing 13-3 record against the SEC. Duke, the preseason favorite in the ACC, fell to LSU by a score of 93-77, marking their fourth consecutive loss and leaving them with a 3-6 record.

According to WTOP, Duke had previously struggled against top-ranked teams, including a loss to No. 3 South Carolina and No. 4 UCLA, leading to their exit from the AP Top 25 for the first time in nearly 25 years.

In another high-profile matchup, No. 11 North Carolina lost 79-64 to No. 2 Texas, experiencing a significant drop in momentum after a strong start. North Carolina has been the highest-ranked team in the ACC, but their challenges mirror a broader trend of underperformance across the conference.

The ACC has no teams in the top 10 of the AP poll for the first time since December 2001, reflecting a troubling start to the season. The league's teams, including N.C. State and Notre Dame, have struggled significantly, with N.C.

State losing to unranked Rhode Island and Notre Dame suffering a 39-point defeat to Michigan. Coach Kara Lawson of Duke noted the need for her team to compete at a high level consistently to improve their standings.

Meanwhile, SEC teams showcased their dominance, with six remaining unbeaten post-challenge, further emphasizing the ACC's struggles this season. As the league prepares for conference play, the outlook remains uncertain, with teams aiming to regain their footing after a rough start, as highlighted by the News & Observer and CBS Sports.