The Women's NCAA Tournament is getting bigger — and the conversation around it is heating up. This season, March Madness will expand from 68 to 76 teams, adding eight at-large bids and more play-in games before the Round of 64. But is this a step forward for the game, or just a power play?

From the sandy shores of Amelia Island, Florida, USA TODAY Sports caught up with some of women's basketball's sharpest minds to get their take. Georgia Tech's Karen Blair sees it as a win for everyone. "Does this help us grow the game? Does it give people more opportunities? The answer is yes," she says. "More student-athletes are going to have a positive experience. There's nothing like hearing your name called on Selection Sunday. For more teams to have that chance? It's phenomenal."

Not everyone is losing sleep over the bracket bulge. NC State's Wes Moore, whose Wolfpack have made five ACC title runs and a 2024 Final Four appearance, admits the expansion hasn't crossed his mind. "We're wired to think, 'We need to finish in the top 16 to host.' That's where the pressure is," Moore says. "Whether it's 64, 68, or 78 teams — let's just compete at the top."

Louisville's Jeff Walz, a four-time Final Four coach whose Cardinals have missed the tournament just once since 2007, is more curious than concerned. But he's watching closely. "I'm interested to see which direction they go," Walz says. "I'm kind of old school — I want to know who really benefits."

As the women's game continues its explosive growth, this expansion could mean more Cinderella stories, more bubble drama, and more March moments for players and fans alike. For coaches and teams, it's a new chapter — and the stakes have never been higher.