April 4, 2026<\/a><\/p>\nWhat a night of women’s college hoops! The 2026 Women\u2019s Final Four delivered two defensive masterclasses. Here is your recap as we sign off from a historic Friday at the Mortgage Matchup Center.<\/p>\n
The Headlines<\/p>\n
1. The Streak is Over: South Carolina stuned undefeated UConn in a rematch of last year’s title game, Dawn Staley\u2019s Gamecocks got their revenge in emphatic fashion. South Carolina ended UConn\u2019s incredible 54-game winning streak with a 62-48 victory. The Gamecocks’ defense was the story, holding the high-powered Huskies to just 31% shooting and limiting stars Sarah Strong and Azzi Fudd to a combined 20 points.<\/p>\n
\tThe Drama: The intensity boiled over at mid-court with a heated postgame exchange between Geno Auriemma and Dawn Staley, adding even more fuel to this burgeoning legendary rivalry.\u00a0<\/p>\n
2. Bruins Make History: UCLA advances to the NCAA title game for its first time in the NCAA era. In a gritty battle, UCLA outlasted Texas 51-44.<\/p>\n
\tThe Closer: Lauren Betts was the undisputed MVP of the night, finishing with 16 points and 11 rebounds on 70% shooting. Her massive block on Texas star Madison Booker with 20 seconds left officially slammed the door on the Longhorns’ comeback attempt.<\/p>\n
Stat of the Night:\u00a023.1%<\/p>\n
The shooting percentage UCLA held Texas to in the first half. The Bruins\u2019 defense set the tone early, holding the Longhorns to just 6 points in the opening quarter.<\/p>\n
Looking Ahead: The National Championship is set<\/p>\n
We have a heavyweight showdown set for Sunday. It will be the powerhouse seeking its fourth title against the program looking for its first ever.\u00a0Rest up, hoops fans \u2014 we\u2019ll see you Sunday for the finale!<\/p>\n