UCLA Women’s Basketball Aims for Historic Final Four Berth

SPOKANE, Wash. — The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball team is on the brink of history as they prepare to face the LSU Tigers in the NCAA Tournament’s Elite Eight on Sunday. With a chance to secure their first-ever Final Four appearance, the Bruins, led by junior guard Gabriela Jaquez, hope to build on her brother Jaime Jaquez Jr.’s success, who previously guided the men’s team to the Final Four.

The Bruins have been dominant this season, earning the No. 1 overall seed and securing an impressive 21.1-point average margin of victory. Gabriela Jaquez, who has averaged 9.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, plays a crucial role in the team’s pursuit of a national title.

UCLA last reached the Final Four in 1979, during the era of the Association of Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW). Gabriela and Jaime became the first siblings at UCLA to carve their names in NCAA history as top players in their respective tournaments.

“It’s always been a dream to play in the Final Four for UCLA,” said Gabriela Jaquez. “We have the talent and determination to make it happen this year.”

In their path stands LSU, who boasts the nation’s fourth-highest scoring offense, averaging 85.3 points per game, led by top scorers Aneesah Morrow, Flau'Jae Johnson, and Mikaylah Williams. The Tigers, coached by Kim Mulkey, have proven their offensive prowess by scoring over 100 points in both their first and second-round games of the tournament.

“We respect their offense, but we know we can compete at the highest level,” added head coach Cori Close. “Our defense will be key against such a high-scoring team.”

LSU holds an offensive advantage, but UCLA’s recent performances have highlighted their ability to adapt and respond under pressure. Against NC State, LSU demonstrated explosive offense but also faced defensive challenges.

In a recent Sweet 16 matchup, Gabriela Jaquez sank crucial three-pointers and finished with a pivotal role as her team triumphed. Her performance continues to inspire hope for UCLA fans eager for a deep tournament run.

“It definitely gives me confidence when I see my teammates stepping up and playing hard,” Jaquez stated. “We’ve worked too hard to let this chance slip away.”

Another storyline to watch is the resilience of LSU’s Morrow, who sustained an injury during their previous game. Reports indicate she will play through pain, showcasing her determination to help push her team forward. “She’s a warrior and will do everything she can for us,” Mulkey remarked.

As tip-off approaches at 3 p.m. ET from Spokane Arena, both teams are prepared for a highly competitive game that will determine who advances to the Final Four in Tampa, Florida.

For UCLA, this Elite Eight matchup is not just another game but an opportunity to rewrite history. With Gabriela Jaquez’s confidence and the team’s unity, the Bruins look to make their mark not only in the tournament but also in the legacy of women’s basketball at UCLA.