Women’s Final Four: UConn and South Carolina Set for Epic Showdown

Women’s Final Four: UConn and South Carolina Set for Epic Showdown

As the excitement builds for the national championship game, basketball fans are eagerly anticipating the clash between two powerhouses: the South Carolina Gamecocks and the UConn Huskies. This Sunday, at 3 p.m. ET on ABC, these two titans of women’s college basketball will face off in what promises to be a thrilling rematch of the 2022 NCAA title game.

For those who remember, South Carolina emerged victorious in that 2022 showdown in Minneapolis, defeating UConn 64-49 to claim their second national championship. It was a historic moment, as it marked the first time the Huskies had ever lost in an NCAA final, having previously been 11-0 in title games. Fast forward to 2025, and the stakes are just as high, if not higher.

Adding another layer of intrigue, this matchup is also a rematch from the regular season. On February 16, the Huskies delivered a stunning performance, routing the Gamecocks 87-58 in Columbia, South Carolina. UConn’s Azzi Fudd was the star of the show, scoring 28 points and snapping South Carolina’s impressive 71-game home win streak.

As we look ahead to Sunday’s game, let’s dive into some key factors that could determine the outcome:

• What’s at stake? UConn is on a quest for its 12th national title and first since 2016. Meanwhile, South Carolina is aiming to repeat after last year’s undefeated 38-0 season. A victory would give the Gamecocks their third title in four years and fourth overall.
• The freshman battle: All eyes will be on UConn’s Sarah Strong and South Carolina’s Joyce Edwards. Strong had a standout performance with 22 points in UConn’s 85-51 blowout of UCLA, while Edwards contributed 13 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists in South Carolina’s 74-57 win over Texas. In their regular-season meeting, Strong had 16 points and 13 rebounds, while Edwards posted 17 points and 5 rebounds.
• Defensive strategies: Can South Carolina limit the dynamic duo of Azzi Fudd and Paige Bueckers? Fudd scored 19 points (all in the first half) and Bueckers added 16 against UCLA. South Carolina’s defense, led by Bree Hall, will need to be at its best to contain UConn’s offensive firepower.
• Bench strength: South Carolina’s bench has been a key factor all season, and it could play a crucial role in the championship game. The Gamecocks’ bench contributed 35 points in their semifinal win over Texas, with Tessa Johnson and MiLaysia Fulwiley making significant contributions.

Now, let’s take a closer look at how these two teams reached the championship game:

UConn vs. UCLA: A Dominant Performance

UConn’s path to the final was paved with a commanding 85-51 victory over No. 1 overall seed UCLA. The Huskies took control from the start, with Azzi Fudd leading the charge with 19 points in the first half. Despite UCLA’s efforts, they struggled to execute their game plan, and UConn’s defense was relentless, forcing 9 steals in the first half alone.

Freshman Sarah Strong stepped up in the second half, scoring 14 points to finish with 22, while Paige Bueckers added 16 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists. UConn’s defense was the key factor, reducing UCLA to a one-dimensional offense centered around Lauren Betts, who scored 26 points. The rest of the Bruins struggled, shooting just 9 of 34 from the field.

As UConn prepares for the championship game, their focus will be on maintaining their defensive intensity and relying on their experienced players like Bueckers to lead the way.

South Carolina vs. Texas: A Game of Patience and Precision

South Carolina’s journey to the final was marked by a methodical 74-57 victory over Texas. The Gamecocks overcame an early deficit by chipping away at Texas’ lead and capitalizing on their mistakes. South Carolina’s ability to score in the paint and on fast breaks was crucial, as they finished with 40 points in the paint and 15 fast-break points.

Joyce Edwards was a standout performer, recording a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds. The Gamecocks’ bench also played a pivotal role, contributing 29 points and providing the depth needed to secure the win.

Looking ahead to the championship game, South Carolina will rely on their bench strength and defensive prowess to challenge UConn and potentially secure another national title.

As the countdown to Sunday continues, fans can expect an intense and closely contested battle between two of the best teams in women’s college basketball. Will UConn reclaim their championship glory, or will South Carolina continue their reign at the top? Tune in to find out!