Geno Auriemma, at 71 years old, became the oldest coach to win an NCAA basketball championship – men’s or women’s – guiding the UConn Huskies to their 12th national title. This victory marked a triumphant return for the Huskies, their first since 2016, and served as a fitting send-off for Paige Bueckers, who is projected to be the sixth UConn player selected first overall in the WNBA draft.
The Huskies’ dominance is unparalleled. Six of their championship teams boasted undefeated seasons, a testament to their consistent excellence. Ranking these twelve remarkable teams is a challenge, as even the lowest-ranked remains among the all-time greats. Let’s dive into the UConn championship legacy, from the first title in 1995 to the latest in 2025.
The 2004 team, led by the legendary Diana Taurasi, completed the program’s first three-peat. While they experienced more losses than the previous two seasons, their tournament run, culminating in a victory over Tennessee in the championship game, solidified their place in history. Taurasi’s 17 points in her final college game capped off a phenomenal career, before she embarked on a twenty-season WNBA journey with the Phoenix Mercury.
The 2003 team showcased Taurasi’s incredible versatility, leading the Huskies in points, rebounds, and assists, despite the loss of four starters to the WNBA. The team’s composure, especially in the Final Four, where Taurasi and freshmen Ann Strother and Barbara Turner led the charge, made this championship all the more impressive.
The 2013 championship team, despite three regular season and tournament losses to Notre Dame, demonstrated resilience and unwavering determination in the NCAA tournament. Their victory over the Irish in the national semifinals and subsequent decisive win over Louisville highlighted their ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
The 2015 UConn team, breaking a record with only one loss in the 2014-15 season, showcased their dominance. Their undefeated season solidified their place as a powerhouse, adding to the legacy of UConn women’s basketball. The team’s success was particularly impressive considering that it followed their record-breaking 111-game winning streak.
The 2025 team, led by Azzi Fudd, Paige Bueckers, and Sarah Strong, ended UConn’s title drought, showcasing their talent and teamwork. This team’s performance was especially significant considering the injury and illness challenges faced in previous years. The team’s dominance in the Final Four, out-scoring their opponents by a combined 57 points, underscores their exceptional skill and determination.
The 2014 team, with an undefeated season of 40-0, holds the record for most wins in a single season, led by the exceptional Breanna Stewart. Their victory over Notre Dame in the championship game, despite the absence of key Irish player Natalie Achonwa, highlighted their strength and dominance.
The 2000 championship team, marking the peak of the UConn-Tennessee rivalry, saw the Huskies emerge victorious in the title game. This title was particularly significant as it was the first for the class of Sue Bird, Swin Cash, Asjha Jones, and Tamika Williams.
The 2010 and 2009 teams, both undefeated, represent the pinnacle of UConn’s back-to-back perfect seasons. Led by the incredible talents of Maya Moore and Tina Charles, these two teams are nearly indistinguishable in terms of their dominance. The slight edge given to the 2009 team acknowledges the contributions of Renee Montgomery, a WNBA lottery pick.
The 2016 team, achieving an unprecedented four consecutive NCAA titles, stands out for its remarkable consistency and overwhelming victories in the Final Four. The team’s exceptional talent, with six players continuing their careers in the WNBA, cemented their place in history.
The 1995 team, the foundation of UConn’s dynasty, marked their first national championship and first undefeated season. The team’s success, featuring future WNBA stars Rebecca Lobo, Jennifer Rizzotti, Nykesha Sales, and Kara Wolters, laid the groundwork for future dominance.
Finally, the 2002 team, with seven future WNBA players including three Hall of Famers, is widely considered not just UConn’s best but one of the greatest women’s college basketball teams ever. Their undefeated season and overwhelming talent solidified their place at the top of this list.
