UConn head coach Geno Auriemma reacts after during the second half of a woman's NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game between UConn and South Carolina at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

UConn head coach Geno Auriemma reacts after during the second half of a woman’s NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game between UConn and South Carolina at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Ross D. Franklin/APPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Head coach Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies looks on during the fourth quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Head coach Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies looks on during the fourth quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesUConn players celebrate from the bench during the first half of a woman's NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game against South Carolina at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

UConn players celebrate from the bench during the first half of a woman’s NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game against South Carolina at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Ross D. Franklin/Associated PressSouth Carolina guard Tessa Johnson (5) drives against UConn during the first half of a woman's NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

South Carolina guard Tessa Johnson (5) drives against UConn during the first half of a woman’s NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Ross D. Franklin/Associated PressA UConn fan cheers before a woman's NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game between UConn and South Carolina at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

A UConn fan cheers before a woman’s NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game between UConn and South Carolina at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Ross D. Franklin/Associated PressUConn players run onto the court before a woman's NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game against South Carolina at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

UConn players run onto the court before a woman’s NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game against South Carolina at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Ross D. Franklin/Associated PressUConn forward Sarah Strong (21) reacts after a play against South Carolina during the first half of a woman's NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

UConn forward Sarah Strong (21) reacts after a play against South Carolina during the first half of a woman’s NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Ross D. Franklin/Associated PressUConn forward Sarah Strong (21) shoots over South Carolina forward Joyce Edwards (8) during the second half of a woman's NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

UConn forward Sarah Strong (21) shoots over South Carolina forward Joyce Edwards (8) during the second half of a woman’s NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Ross D. Franklin/Associated PressSouth Carolina guard Agot Makeer (44) and UConn guard Kayleigh Heckel (9) scramble for the ball during the second half of a woman's NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

South Carolina guard Agot Makeer (44) and UConn guard Kayleigh Heckel (9) scramble for the ball during the second half of a woman’s NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Ross D. Franklin/Associated PressPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: KK Arnold #2 of the UConn Huskies dribbles against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the third quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: KK Arnold #2 of the UConn Huskies dribbles against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the third quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Head coach Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies gestures during the third quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Head coach Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies gestures during the third quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Azzi Fudd #35 of the UConn Huskies gestures during the second quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Azzi Fudd #35 of the UConn Huskies gestures during the second quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Azzi Fudd #35, Kayleigh Heckel #9, Ashlynn Shade #12, and Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies react during the third quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Azzi Fudd #35, Kayleigh Heckel #9, Ashlynn Shade #12, and Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies react during the third quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Joyce Edwards #8 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives to the basket against Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies during the third quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Joyce Edwards #8 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives to the basket against Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies during the third quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Kayleigh Heckel #9 of the UConn Huskies dribbles against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the third quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Kayleigh Heckel #9 of the UConn Huskies dribbles against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the third quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Azzi Fudd #35 and Ashlynn Shade #12 of the UConn Huskies high five during the third quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Azzi Fudd #35 and Ashlynn Shade #12 of the UConn Huskies high five during the third quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Former UConn Huskies players Diana Taurasi and Paige Bueckers look on during the second quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Former UConn Huskies players Diana Taurasi and Paige Bueckers look on during the second quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Members of the UConn Huskies look on before the start of the second quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Members of the UConn Huskies look on before the start of the second quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesUConn forward Sarah Strong (21) and South Carolina guard Raven Johnson (25) scramble for the ball during the first half of a woman's NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

UConn forward Sarah Strong (21) and South Carolina guard Raven Johnson (25) scramble for the ball during the first half of a woman’s NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Ross D. Franklin/Associated PressPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies dribbles against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the second quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies dribbles against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the second quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Azzi Fudd #35 of the UConn Huskies gestures during the second quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Azzi Fudd #35 of the UConn Huskies gestures during the second quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies gestures before the start of the second quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies gestures before the start of the second quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Members of the UConn Huskies look on before the start of the second quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Members of the UConn Huskies look on before the start of the second quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Head coach Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies looks on during the first quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Head coach Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies looks on during the first quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Blanca Quinonez #4 of the UConn Huskies reacts in front of Sarah Strong #21 during the third quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Blanca Quinonez #4 of the UConn Huskies reacts in front of Sarah Strong #21 during the third quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Ta'niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks dribbles against Sarah Strong #21 and Kayleigh Heckel #9 of the UConn Huskies during the second quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Ta’niya Latson #00 of the South Carolina Gamecocks dribbles against Sarah Strong #21 and Kayleigh Heckel #9 of the UConn Huskies during the second quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Members of the UConn Huskies react from the bench during the fourth quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Members of the UConn Huskies react from the bench during the fourth quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Azzi Fudd #35 of the UConn Huskies shoots the ball against Agot Makeer #44 of the South Carolina Gamecocks during the fourth quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Azzi Fudd #35 of the UConn Huskies shoots the ball against Agot Makeer #44 of the South Carolina Gamecocks during the fourth quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Head coach Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies reacts during the first quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Head coach Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies reacts during the first quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 3: Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies dribbles the ball while Joyce Edwards #8 of the South Carolina Gamecocks defends during the first half of a NCAA Women's Final Four semifinal game at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 3, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by C. Morgan Engel/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 3: Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies dribbles the ball while Joyce Edwards #8 of the South Carolina Gamecocks defends during the first half of a NCAA Women’s Final Four semifinal game at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 3, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by C. Morgan Engel/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)

C. Morgan Engel/NCAA Photos via Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 3: Dawn Staley of the South Carolina Gamecocks walks to shake hands with Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies prior to a NCAA Women's Final Four semifinal game at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 3, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Ben Solomon/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 3: Dawn Staley of the South Carolina Gamecocks walks to shake hands with Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies prior to a NCAA Women’s Final Four semifinal game at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 3, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Ben Solomon/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)

Ben Solomon/NCAA Photos via Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 3: Serah Williams #22 of the UConn Huskies runs out for introductions prior to a NCAA Women's Final Four semifinal game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 3, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Ben Solomon/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 3: Serah Williams #22 of the UConn Huskies runs out for introductions prior to a NCAA Women’s Final Four semifinal game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 3, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Ben Solomon/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)

Ben Solomon/NCAA Photos via Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Tessa Johnson #5 of the South Carolina Gamecocks looks to pass the ball against Ashlynn Shade #12 of the UConn Huskies during the first quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Tessa Johnson #5 of the South Carolina Gamecocks looks to pass the ball against Ashlynn Shade #12 of the UConn Huskies during the first quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 3: Dawn Staley of the South Carolina Gamecocks shakes hands with Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies prior to a NCAA Women's Final Four semifinal game at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 3, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Ben Solomon/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 3: Dawn Staley of the South Carolina Gamecocks shakes hands with Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies prior to a NCAA Women’s Final Four semifinal game at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 3, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Ben Solomon/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)

Ben Solomon/NCAA Photos via Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies looks on during the first quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies looks on during the first quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Head coach Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies reacts during the first quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Head coach Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies reacts during the first quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies looks to pass the ball against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the first quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies looks to pass the ball against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the first quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: KK Arnold #2 of the UConn Huskies dribbles against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the third quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: KK Arnold #2 of the UConn Huskies dribbles against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the third quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty ImagesPHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Joyce Edwards #8 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives to the basket against Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies during the third quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Joyce Edwards #8 of the South Carolina Gamecocks drives to the basket against Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies during the third quarter in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesUConn's KK Arnold (2) wears her face mask while sitting on the bench in the Final Four game against South Carolina at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s KK Arnold (2) wears her face mask while sitting on the bench in the Final Four game against South Carolina at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn's Blanca Quinonez (4) dives for a loose ball between South Carolina's Madina Okot (11) and South Joyce Edwards (8) in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Blanca Quinonez (4) dives for a loose ball between South Carolina’s Madina Okot (11) and South Joyce Edwards (8) in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma questions a foul call during their Final Four game against South Carolina at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma questions a foul call during their Final Four game against South Carolina at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaSouth Carolina Head Coach Dawn Staley argues a foul call during their Final Four game against UConn at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

South Carolina Head Coach Dawn Staley argues a foul call during their Final Four game against UConn at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn's Blanca Quinonez (4) recovers a loose ball between South Carolina's Madina Okot (11) and South Joyce Edwards (8) in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Blanca Quinonez (4) recovers a loose ball between South Carolina’s Madina Okot (11) and South Joyce Edwards (8) in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaA members of the UConn marching band plays during the Husky’s match up with South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

A members of the UConn marching band plays during the Husky’s match up with South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn fans cheer on the Husky’s as they take on South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn fans cheer on the Husky’s as they take on South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn fans cheer on the Husky’s as they take on South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn fans cheer on the Husky’s as they take on South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma during their game against South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma during their game against South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn’s Sarah Strong (21) fights for a loose ball with South Carolina's Ta'Niya Latson (00) during their Final Four match up at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Sarah Strong (21) fights for a loose ball with South Carolina’s Ta’Niya Latson (00) during their Final Four match up at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn bench celebrates a three point shot during their Final Four game against South Carolina at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn bench celebrates a three point shot during their Final Four game against South Carolina at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn’s Sarah Strong (21) runs down a loose ball before getting fouled by South Carolina's Raven Johnson (25) during their Final Four match up at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Sarah Strong (21) runs down a loose ball before getting fouled by South Carolina’s Raven Johnson (25) during their Final Four match up at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn fans look on as the clock winds down during their loss to South Carolina in their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn fans look on as the clock winds down during their loss to South Carolina in their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn legend Diana Taurasi looks on as UConn women fall to South Carolina in their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn legend Diana Taurasi looks on as UConn women fall to South Carolina in their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn’s Azzi Fudd (35) during their Final Four game against South Carolina at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Azzi Fudd (35) during their Final Four game against South Carolina at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn’s Azzi Fudd (35) drives to the basket past South Carolina's Tessa Johnson (5) during their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Azzi Fudd (35) drives to the basket past South Carolina’s Tessa Johnson (5) during their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma during their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma during their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma during their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma during their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma during their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma during their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn's KK Arnold (2) puts up a shot in front of South Carolina's Joyce Edwards (8) during their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s KK Arnold (2) puts up a shot in front of South Carolina’s Joyce Edwards (8) during their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn’s Ashlynn Shade (12) and Serah Williams (22) battle for a rebound with South Carolina's Joyce Edwards (8) during Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Ashlynn Shade (12) and Serah Williams (22) battle for a rebound with South Carolina’s Joyce Edwards (8) during Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn’s Azzi Fudd (35) drives past South Carolina's Tessa Johnson (5) on her way to the basket during their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Azzi Fudd (35) drives past South Carolina’s Tessa Johnson (5) on her way to the basket during their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn fans look on as time winds down during their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn fans look on as time winds down during their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn’s Sarah Strong (21) drives to the basket against South Carolina's Agot Makeer (44) during their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Sarah Strong (21) drives to the basket against South Carolina’s Agot Makeer (44) during their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma during their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma during their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn Associate Head Coach Chris Dailey, Kayleigh Heckel (9) and Serah Williams (22), look on as time winds down during their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn Associate Head Coach Chris Dailey, Kayleigh Heckel (9) and Serah Williams (22), look on as time winds down during their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn’s Ashlynn Shade (12) and Azzi Fudd (35) make their way off the court following their loss to South Carolina in their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Ashlynn Shade (12) and Azzi Fudd (35) make their way off the court following their loss to South Carolina in their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn players make their way off the court following their loss to South Carolina in their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn players make their way off the court following their loss to South Carolina in their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaA UConn fan reacts to the Husky’s loss to South Carolina in their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

A UConn fan reacts to the Husky’s loss to South Carolina in their Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn's KK Arnold (2) makes her way to the bench during their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s KK Arnold (2) makes her way to the bench during their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaHearst CT sports writer Maggie Vanoni interviews UConn's UConn’s Allie Ziebell (11) following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Hearst CT sports writer Maggie Vanoni interviews UConn’s UConn’s Allie Ziebell (11) following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaHearst CT sports writer Roger Cleaveland interviews UConn’s Ashlynn Shade (12) following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Hearst CT sports writer Roger Cleaveland interviews UConn’s Ashlynn Shade (12) following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaHearst CT sports writer Maggie Vanoni interviews UConn's Jana El Alfy (8) following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Hearst CT sports writer Maggie Vanoni interviews UConn’s Jana El Alfy (8) following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaHearst CT sports writer Maggie Vanoni interviews UConn’s Ayanna Patterson (34) following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Hearst CT sports writer Maggie Vanoni interviews UConn’s Ayanna Patterson (34) following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaSouth Carolina Head Coach Dawn Staley addresses the media following their 62-48 win over UConn in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

South Carolina Head Coach Dawn Staley addresses the media following their 62-48 win over UConn in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn's KK Arnold (2) speaks with reporters following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s KK Arnold (2) speaks with reporters following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaHearst CT sports writer Roger Cleaveland interviews UConn's Kayleigh Heckel (9) following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Hearst CT sports writer Roger Cleaveland interviews UConn’s Kayleigh Heckel (9) following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma sits with players Sarah Strong and Azzi Fudd during the post game press conference following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma sits with players Sarah Strong and Azzi Fudd during the post game press conference following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn's Kayleigh Heckel (9) speaks with the media following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Kayleigh Heckel (9) speaks with the media following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn’s Ashlynn Shade (12) and Allie Ziebell (11) comfort one another in the locker room following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Ashlynn Shade (12) and Allie Ziebell (11) comfort one another in the locker room following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaHearst CT sports writer Roger Cleaveland interviews UConn's Kayleigh Heckel (9) following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Hearst CT sports writer Roger Cleaveland interviews UConn’s Kayleigh Heckel (9) following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn's Kayleigh Heckel (9) Ashlynn Shade (12) console one another in the locker room following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Kayleigh Heckel (9) Ashlynn Shade (12) console one another in the locker room following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaA man looks for tickets as fans make their way to in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

A man looks for tickets as fans make their way to in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaJulia Staten of Phoenix, and her daughter Kennedy Staten, 11, have relatives who live in Connecticut so they are UConn fans, make their way to Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Julia Staten of Phoenix, and her daughter Kennedy Staten, 11, have relatives who live in Connecticut so they are UConn fans, make their way to Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaHearst CT sports writer Maggie Vanoni during the UConn vs South Carolina game in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Hearst CT sports writer Maggie Vanoni during the UConn vs South Carolina game in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaA pair of UConn fans take a selfie outside the the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026 prior to the Final Four games.

A pair of UConn fans take a selfie outside the the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026 prior to the Final Four games.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaFans make their way across the street on their way to watch in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Fans make their way across the street on their way to watch in the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaLong Island, NY residents and UConn fans, from left, Jenny Demarco; Gina Demarco; Anthony Demarco, 11, and Ava Demarco, 16, make their way to the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Long Island, NY residents and UConn fans, from left, Jenny Demarco; Gina Demarco; Anthony Demarco, 11, and Ava Demarco, 16, make their way to the Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaFans line up to enter in the Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona for the Final Four games Friday, April 3, 2026.

Fans line up to enter in the Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona for the Final Four games Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn fan Kennedy Staten, 11, of Phoenix, show off her basketball purse with autographs from players, including UConn's Azzi Fudd as she and her mom make their way to Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn fan Kennedy Staten, 11, of Phoenix, show off her basketball purse with autographs from players, including UConn’s Azzi Fudd as she and her mom make their way to Final Four at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut MediaUConn fans take a photo of the bracket display outside Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona as they head in for in the Final Four games Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn fans take a photo of the bracket display outside Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona as they head in for in the Final Four games Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut Media

PHOENIX — For the first time in 421 days, UConn women’s basketball has lost.

The Huskies’ perfect season is over, and the pursuit of their first back-to-back national championship in 10 years has fallen short.

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The reigning champs have been dethroned, and a new winner will be crowned come Sunday’s title game.

South Carolina, runner-up to UConn in last year’s national championship, did what no other team could for the last 14 months.

The Gamecocks’ 62-48 Final Four victory on Friday hands UConn its first loss since Feb. 6, 2025, snapping the Huskies’ 54-game win streak — the fifth longest in NCAA Division I women’s basketball.

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“I mean, obviously, this isn’t how I wanted my career at UConn to end,” said Azzi Fudd through glossy eyes after the game. “… I know something we’ve talked about is how this game, like I said, (it’s) not how we wanted it to end. But it doesn’t define us, what this team is, what this season was.”

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From tip-off to the literal final seconds before the buzzer, Friday’s game overflowed with tension. On the court, the game was physical, aggressive and intense  — so much so that Sarah Strong, the National Player of the Year, ripped her jersey straight down the middle out of frustration.

Off the court, however, it reached even higher peaks of resentment. In the final second of the game, Geno Auriemma and South Carolina coach Dawn Staley exchanged heated words. Auriemma ranted about the officiating in an ESPN on-court interview after the third quarter and ultimately walked off the court after the final buzzer, alone, without shaking hands with anyone on South Carolina’s staff or roster.

“For 41 years, I’ve been coaching, I don’t know, 25 Final Fours,” said Auriemma after the game, expressing that his frustrations with Staley started before the game when she was late to shake his hand at halfcourt. “The protocol is before the game, you meet at halfcourt. … Two coaches meet at halfcourt, and they shake hands, correct? Ever see it? They announce it on the loudspeaker. I waited there for like three minutes.”

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While the loss was the Huskies’ only blemish on their previous unbeaten record, the image of Auriemma’s outburst marred their nearly perfect season.

South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley, left, and UConn head coach Geno Auriemma argue after a woman's NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley, left, and UConn head coach Geno Auriemma argue after a woman’s NCAA college basketball tournament semifinal game at the Final Four, Friday, April 3, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

Rick Scuteri/AP

Heading into Friday’s game, UConn (38-1) had not faced a real competitive scare since November. All season long, the Huskies sailed through games thanks to their depth. If one player had a bad day, there was always someone ready to step up. No game was perfect, but UConn was able to bury its mistakes thanks to its overpowering defense.

But against the Gamecocks, the Huskies learned their biggest weakness all season long was themselves. 

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When frustration arose, instead of fighting through it and responding, UConn dug its grave deeper. Its offense collapsed to the point of no return – a place where even its defense couldn’t keep up.

South Carolina’s length and speed overwhelmed the Huskies early. The Gamecocks forced UConn to rush, settle for poor-look shots and waste down the shot clock nearly every possession. UConn’s 48 points are its least in an NCAA Tournament game since scoring 49 in its loss to the Gamecocks in the 2022 national championship game.

The Huskies’ shooting woes took them out of the game. UConn shot 31.1% – its worst field goal percentage since shooting 29.2 % against UCF also in the 2022 NCAA Tournament. The Huskies finished just 5-of-18 on layups and 6-of-21 on 3s.

So, did the foul calling and free-throw discrepancy. The Huskies finished just 4-of-6 from the charity stripe; meanwhile, South Carolina went 18-of-22 from the line.

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“We knew it was going to be like a really physical kind of game. And we knew it was going to be kind of a game you got to grind it out,” said Auriemma. “… But you got to make shots, man. You can’t win with just your defense when you come to this point. You got to make some shots. And unfortunately, we didn’t.

“… I mean, one way to get easy shots is to get to the free-throw line. Now, I don’t think, generally speaking, we did enough with the ball to create the contact that we needed to create to get to the free-throw line. I think our inability to get loose, to get free, probably was (a factor), so we started rushing it. And then when we did get open looks, you know, some of them were rushed.”

Fudd (eight points, five assists) and Strong struggled to find their shot and the Huskies’ X-factor sixth player got herself into early foul trouble. Freshman Blanca Quiñonez picked up two fouls in her first two minutes on the floor and spent the majority of the first half on the bench. Fudd started the game 0-of-3 and didn’t make her first bucket until the final 2:26 of the first half. Strong led with 12 points and 12 rebounds, but was held to just four points in the second half.

Strong was the most aggressive Husky on the floor. She pushed her way into the paint, battled with South Carolina’s 6-foot-6 center Madina Okot repeatedly, and fought hard for steals (finished with three steals and two blocs). She took the Gamecocks’ physicality and delivered it back, getting more aggressive as the game went on. Yet the National Player couldn’t do it all this time.

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PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 03: Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies huddles with teammates during the third quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 03: Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies huddles with teammates during the third quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Final Four of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 03, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Sarah Stier/Getty Images

“Sometimes we do forget she’s a sophomore,” Auriemma said. “She’s carried a huge load for this team. An awful lot falls on her. Tonight, she’ll be the first to tell you that she is not proud of how her game went today. A lot of shots that you’ve seen her make for two years so easily today didn’t go in. She still got her 12 rebounds, did all the things she normally does, and played 40 minutes.

“I don’t think Sarah Strong needs me to put any fire or motivation or anything into her. We’ll be back here next year. She’ll make sure of that.”

UConn's Sarah Strong (21) fights off South Carolina's Raven Johnson (25) in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Sarah Strong (21) fights off South Carolina’s Raven Johnson (25) in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut Media

The Huskies went on a 7-0 run early before the Gamecocks began poking holes in UConn’s defense. Instead of running into the paint and battling with Strong, South Carolina (36-3) began sinking in instant-release pull-up jumpers as a way to prevent UConn’s defense from setting up and getting too close. South Carolina ended the first quarter on an 11-4 run as freshman Agot Makeer sank a 3-pointer with three seconds left to tie the game.

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UConn’s defense couldn’t get around Okot or crash the boards fast enough. About 15 minutes in, South Carolina had 19 rebounds compared to UConn’s nine, including nine offensive boards to UConn’s two.

UConn's Blanca Quinonez (4) and Kelis Fisher (7) sit in the locker room following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

UConn’s Blanca Quinonez (4) and Kelis Fisher (7) sit in the locker room following their loss to South Carolina in the Final Four game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona Friday, April 3, 2026.

Jim Shannon/Hearst Connecticut Media

The Huskies were 1-of-11 from deep before making one final, desperate push. They made three straight 3-pointers and shrunk South Carolina’s once 10-point lead to one in the final minutes of the third.

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The Gamecocks pushed down harder and didn’t let up, ending the game on an 11-1 run and keeping UConn (which shot 2-of-14 in the fourth) without a field goal for the final four minutes and 40 seconds.

“It really wasn’t until the game where it kind of hit me that, you know, there’s no more, not enough time left on the clock for us to go on this run,” said Fudd. “But I mean, with this group, really, anything is possible anytime. They’re going to be incredible going forward. I mean that because they have some unreal talent and incredible work ethics.”