The Women’s Final Four is set, and it’s a clash of titans in Tampa! Nearly half a million brackets correctly predicted UCLA, South Carolina, Texas, and UConn would make it this far, but the real question is: who will take home the championship trophy?
This year’s Final Four is a fascinating mix of established powerhouses and exciting newcomers. UConn, a perennial powerhouse under Geno Auriemma, boasts an impressive 16 Final Four appearances in the last 17 years. They’re the only number two seed remaining, but their experience makes them the early favorite. South Carolina, aiming for a back-to-back championship, is making their fifth consecutive Final Four appearance. But the story doesn’t end there; we have some fresh faces in the mix.
Vic Schaefer has led Texas to its first national semifinal since 2003, a testament to his coaching prowess. And UCLA? They’re making history, reaching the Final Four for the first time ever in the NCAA era. This year’s tournament showcases the incredible depth of women’s college basketball, with three of the four teams who held the number one ranking during the season battling it out in Tampa.
Let’s dive into each team’s path to victory:
UCLA: The Bruins’ success hinges on the phenomenal Lauren Betts. Her size, skill, and court awareness make her a near-unstoppable force. While Betts is the star, Kiki Rice’s playmaking, Timea Gardiner’s three-point shooting, and Gabriela Jaquez’s all-around game provide crucial support. However, UCLA’s lack of Final Four experience could be a significant factor. Only assistant coach Shannon LeBeauf has been to a Final Four, and the team’s ability to handle the pressure of this environment will be key.
South Carolina: The Gamecocks’ strength lies in their depth and versatility. They lack a single go-to player, but their roster boasts a wealth of talent, with players like MiLaysia Fulwiley, Chloe Kitts, and Sania Feagin stepping up when needed. Their championship pedigree is undeniable, with most starters having been to the Final Four multiple times. However, their vulnerabilities have been exposed this season; they’ve lost to three of the teams they’ll face in Tampa, demonstrating that there are multiple ways to defeat this squad.
Texas: Under Vic Schaefer’s masterful coaching, Texas has built a reputation on their suffocating defense. Their size inside, combined with the defensive prowess of Rori Harmon, Madison Booker, and others, makes them a formidable opponent. But their reliance on defense could be their downfall. Their lack of three-point shooting limits their offensive options and makes them vulnerable when playing from behind.
UConn: The Huskies boast an incredibly potent and efficient offense, led by the sensational Paige Bueckers, Sarah Strong, and Azzi Fudd. Their offensive prowess is undeniable, ranking among the best in the nation in various statistical categories. But their relative lack of size compared to other teams in the Final Four, particularly UCLA’s Lauren Betts, could prove to be a significant challenge.
The Final Four promises a thrilling weekend of basketball, with each team possessing the potential to claim the national championship. It’s a truly wide-open race, making for an unforgettable tournament conclusion. Who will prevail? Only time will tell!
