The UConn Huskies women’s basketball team delivered a decisive 82-59 victory over the South Carolina Gamecocks in the NCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship game on April 6, 2025, securing their 12th national title.
Senior guard Paige Bueckers, who has faced significant challenges including an ACL injury in 2022 and a near miss in the Final Four in 2024, led the team with 17 points. Her performance was pivotal in silencing any doubts about her legacy, firmly establishing her as one of UConn’s all-time greats.
Freshman Sarah Strong made a remarkable impact, contributing 24 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, three blocks, and two steals. Her all-around performance was instrumental in UConn’s dominance throughout the game.
Azzi Fudd also scored 24 points, showcasing her scoring prowess and earning recognition as the Final Four’s Most Outstanding Player.
Head coach Geno Auriemma expressed deep pride in his team’s performance, highlighting their resilience and cohesion. This victory marked a significant return to championship form for UConn, ending a nine-year title drought.
The championship game was notably scheduled at 3 p.m. ET, a departure from the traditional prime-time slot. This timing sparked discussions among fans and commentators, with some advocating for prime-time scheduling to enhance visibility and growth of women’s basketball.
Reflecting on the win, Bueckers became emotional when discussing the late Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gigi, expressing a sense of their presence during the tournament. Her heartfelt remarks resonated with fans, highlighting the deep connections within the basketball community
Overall, UConn’s performance throughout the tournament, culminating in this championship, underscored their status as a dominant force in women’s college basketball, blending experienced leadership with emerging talent to reclaim their place atop the sport.
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