Elite Field:: The Final Four features No. 1 seeds UCLA, South Carolina, and Texas, alongside No. 2 seed UConn. All teams have three losses or fewer this season.
Star Power:: Top players include Paige Bueckers (UConn), Lauren Betts (UCLA), Madison Booker (Texas), Sarah Strong (UConn), Chloe Kitts (South Carolina), and Kiki Rice (UCLA).
Bueckers on Fire:: UConn's Paige Bueckers, a projected top WNBA draft pick, enters the Final Four after scoring 105 points in her last three games, seeking her first national title in her final collegiate season.
Betts Dominating:: UCLA's 6-foot-7 center Lauren Betts has been crucial, averaging 20.0 PPG and 9.6 RPG, leading the Bruins to their first-ever Final Four.
South Carolina Defends:: The Gamecocks, led by coach Dawn Staley, aim to be the first repeat champions since UConn (2013-16).
Texas Returns:: The Longhorns, led by sophomore standout Madison Booker, are in their first Final Four since the 2002-03 season.
Why this matters:: The Final Four determines the national champion, showcases future WNBA stars, and provides thrilling matchups between the nation's best teams. Legacies for players like Bueckers and coaches like Staley are on the line.
No. 1 South Carolina vs. No. 1 Texas (Friday, 7:00 PM ET, ESPN)
Defending champions South Carolina face a familiar SEC foe in Texas. Under coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks are in their fifth straight Final Four, built on depth and consistent performance. Key players like Chloe Kitts (averaging 12.3 PPG, 8.0 RPG in the tournament), Te-Hina Paopao, and Sania Feagin lead the charge. While South Carolina defeated Texas decisively in their previous two meetings this season, including the SEC Championship, Texas has proven resilient.
The Longhorns, coached by Vic Schaefer, rely on versatility and toughness. Sophomore Madison Booker (16.5 PPG, 6.8 RPG) is the engine, capable of scoring, rebounding, and defending multiple positions. Senior guard Rori Harmon provides elite defense and playmaking, while Taylor Jones anchors the post. Texas seeks its first national title since 1986 and aims to overcome its previous struggles against the Gamecocks.
No. 1 UCLA vs. No. 2 UConn (Friday, approx. 9:30 PM ET, ESPN)
This matchup pits UCLA, making its historic first Final Four appearance, against the legendary UConn program, appearing for a record 24th time. UCLA, the tournament's top overall seed, is led by junior center Lauren Betts. Her inside presence (20.0 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 3.0 BPG) and efficiency have been remarkable. Guard Kiki Rice (12.9 PPG, 5.1 APG) orchestrates the offense effectively. Coach Cori Close has instilled belief in her team, emphasizing their readiness for this stage.
UConn, despite being a No. 2 seed, enters as a favorite for many, largely thanks to Paige Bueckers. The redshirt senior guard is playing at an elite level, averaging over 35 points in her last three tournament games. She's supported by freshman standout Sarah Strong (16.1 PPG, 8.8 RPG), graduate guard Azzi Fudd (13.1 PPG), and senior Kaitlyn Chen. Coach Geno Auriemma seeks his 12th national title, but the Huskies haven't won since 2016. Overcoming UCLA's size and Betts' dominance will be key.
When and where are the Women's Final Four games?
The games are on Friday, April 4, 2025, at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. South Carolina plays Texas at 7:00 PM ET, followed by UCLA vs. UConn approximately 30 minutes after the first game concludes. Both games air on ESPN.
Who are the top players to watch?
Key stars include Paige Bueckers (UConn), Lauren Betts (UCLA), Madison Booker (Texas), Sarah Strong (UConn), Chloe Kitts (South Carolina), Kiki Rice (UCLA), and Te-Hina Paopao (South Carolina).
Which teams have won national championships before?
UConn has won 11 titles, South Carolina has won 3 titles (including 2024), and Texas won its only title in 1986. UCLA is seeking its first NCAA championship (it won a pre-NCAA AIAW title in 1978).
Expect high-level, intense basketball games with national championship stakes.
Watch for standout performances from star players like Paige Bueckers and Lauren Betts.
Storylines abound: UConn's quest to return to the top, South Carolina's title defense, UCLA's historic run, and Texas's resurgence.
These games offer a glimpse at future WNBA talent.
This Final Four features incredible talent and compelling matchups. Which semifinal are you most looking forward to, and who is your pick to cut down the nets on Sunday? Let us know!
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