The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament, as the University of South Carolina Gamecocks and the University of Connecticut Huskies have both secured their places in the national championship game. Both teams delivered commanding performances in the Final Four, underscoring their dominance and setting up a highly anticipated rematch.
In the first semifinal matchup, the top-seeded South Carolina Gamecocks faced off against the Texas Longhorns. Demonstrating their defensive prowess and offensive efficiency, South Carolina emerged victorious with a 74-57 win. The Gamecocks’ defense was particularly stifling, holding Texas to just 57 points and forcing numerous turnovers. This victory propels South Carolina into the national championship game for the third time in four years, highlighting the sustained excellence of head coach Dawn Staley’s program.
Following this, the University of Connecticut Huskies took on the UCLA Bruins in the second semifinal. UConn delivered a historic performance, defeating UCLA 85-51. This 34-point margin of victory is the largest ever recorded in a Women’s Final Four game. Freshman standout Sarah Strong led the Huskies with 22 points and eight rebounds, while Azzi Fudd contributed significantly with 19 points, all scored in the first half. This dominant display advances UConn to their 12th national championship game, as they seek their first title since 2016.
The championship game, scheduled for Sunday, April 6, at 3 p.m. ET, will be a rematch of the 2022 title game, where South Carolina defeated UConn 64-49 to claim the championship. Notably, the two teams met earlier this season on February 16, with UConn ending South Carolina’s 71-game home winning streak with an 87-58 victory. This adds an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming matchup, as both teams have demonstrated the ability to defeat the other.
For South Carolina, the leadership of coach Dawn Staley has been instrumental in their sustained success. Under her guidance, the Gamecocks have become a perennial powerhouse in women’s college basketball, with this being their fourth championship game appearance in eight years. Staley’s focus remains unwavering, encapsulated in her succinct message following the semifinal win: “One more.”
UConn, led by veteran coach Geno Auriemma, continues to build upon its storied legacy. The Huskies’ blend of experienced leadership and emerging talent, exemplified by players like Sarah Strong and Azzi Fudd, has been pivotal in their tournament run. Auriemma’s ability to guide his team to peak performance at critical moments underscores his reputation as one of the sport’s premier coaches.
As anticipation builds for the championship game, fans and analysts alike are eager to witness this clash of titans. Both teams have showcased exceptional skill, resilience, and determination throughout the season, setting the stage for a memorable finale to the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament.