Duke women's basketball team is predicted to dominate the ACC once again, with Hannah Hidalgo of Notre Dame named Preseason Player of the Year. The Associated Press Top 25 rankings reveal Duke's strength, securing 40 of 70 first-place votes. However, the ACC championship race is far from over, as North Carolina State, the runner-up from last year, is expected to challenge Duke, receiving 25 first-place votes. Stanford, Virginia, and Miami are also in the mix, with five schools in total receiving votes for the top spot. Hidalgo, a standout player last season, aims to step up her leadership with the Fighting Irish, averaging impressive stats. She's joined by the 10-person Preseason All-ACC team, including Duke's Toby Fournier and Ashlon Jackson, as well as Kymora Johnson of Virginia. The All-Freshman team introduces fresh talent like Duke's Emilee Skinner and Stanford's Hailee Swain. The ACC women's basketball season promises an exciting battle for the top spot, with teams like North Carolina, Louisville, and Notre Dame also in the running.
