The NCAA women’s basketball tournament will start with some grumbling over travel and an outcome in doubt.

Heck, there might even be a few surprises in the early rounds, something rare in the women’s tournament.

A year ago, the only thing that could have kept Connecticut from winning the national championship might have been failing to get to the arena on time.

The Huskies have the talent to repeat and they’re ranked No. 1. But they’re relying on three freshmen who have never experienced the NCAA Tournament, leading scorer Diana Taurasi has ankle and back problems, and Villanova showed UConn was vulnerable.

By ending UConn’s 70-game winning streak with a 52-48 win in the Big East tournament championship game, Villanova gave hope to everyone else.

“Connecticut was so dominant last year, it was almost like everybody else was playing for second,” said Texas Tech coach Marsha Sharp, whose team is the No. 2 seed in the Midwest.

“I do think we’ve got a little different look this year. There are several teams that probably have enough of a total package and a chance to get it done.”

The sprint to the Final Four in Atlanta begins today with 16 first-round games in eight campus arenas. The remaining 16 first-round games will be played Sunday at eight other sites.

Connecticut (31-1), seeded No. 1 in the East Regional, plays first-time qualifier Boston University at home Sunday. The Huskies are aiming for a second straight title and third in four years.