UConn, South Carolina Clash for NCAA Women’s Basketball Title

TAMPA, Fla. — The stage is set for a monumental showdown at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, as the UConn Huskies face the South Carolina Gamecocks in the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship at Amalie Arena. This highly anticipated matchup features UConn aiming for its 12th title under legendary coach Geno Auriemma, while South Carolina seeks its third championship in four years under Dawn Staley.

The game marks the end of an era for UConn’s star player Paige Bueckers, who is set to don her college jersey for the last time. Bueckers’s career has been illustrious, but a national title remains the crowning achievement she has yet to secure. “It would be a storybook ending to my college career,” Bueckers said. “I’m focused on bringing home the championship.”

Fans can expect a fierce contest, as both teams come into the game riding waves of momentum after dominant tournament performances. UConn (36-3) has been particularly impressive, winning all of its tournament games by at least 14 points, including a substantial victory over UCLA in the semifinals, 85-51. South Carolina (35-3), on the other hand, has demonstrated impressive resilience, recovering from a mid-season rout against UConn to defeat Texas 74-57 in their semifinal matchup.

“This South Carolina team has depth and knows how to match the energy of their opponents,” Aueremma noted. “They’re well-coached and prepared to compete.”

Both Auriemma and Staley share a rich history and mutual respect for one another, with Auriemma leading their all-time matchups, 9-5. However, Staley has claimed victory in five of their last seven encounters, including the title game in 2022. “Geno is a great coach, but we’re focused on our team and what we need to do to win,” Staley said.

This rematch comes with additional stakes, as both coaches are in the upper echelons of NCAA history, with Auriemma holding 11 national titles and Staley tied for fourth all-time with three. Each program boasts compelling storylines: UConn aims to reclaim its dynasty after a recent championship drought while South Carolina searches to solidify its position as a powerhouse in women’s basketball.

Notably, South Carolina will contend with the absence of star forward Ashley Watkins, who suffered a season-ending ACL injury earlier in the season. Despite her absence, the Gamecocks have shown that their depth can still drive them to success. “We’ve adapted and learned to play as a unit without Ashley,” Staley expressed.

The anticipation for this matchup is palpable, with Amalie Arena buzzing with fans eagerly awaiting tip-off. Having previously hosted the Final Four thrice, Tampa is cementing its status in NCAA history. “It’s a privilege to be here again in such an iconic venue,” said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor.

As the final moments lead up to tip-off, the excitement builds not just for the players and coaches but for fans all around the nation ready to witness this thrilling championship showdown.

The game will be televised nationally on ABC, ESPN+, and Disney+.