2025 Women’s Final Four: Legacy, Rivalry, and Future Stars on Display

TAMPA, Fla. — The 2025 Women’s Final Four tips off Friday with a clash of basketball powerhouses at Amalie Arena. Defending champion South Carolina faces Texas in the first semifinal, while UConn takes on UCLA in the second game. The stakes are high as teams compete for a spot in the national championship, set for Sunday.

South Carolina, under head coach Dawn Staley, is aiming for its third title in four years and seeks to solidify its status as a dynasty in women’s college basketball. The Gamecocks have a history of excellence, buoyed by a roster featuring stars like A’ja Wilson and Aliyah Boston, who have made significant impacts in the WNBA.

“Relationships are important… they help our program a lot because they’ve been through it,” said guard Te-Hina Paopao, emphasizing the role of former players in mentoring the current squad. Staley has not only built a winning team but fostered a culture of trust and communication, which she believes is crucial for success.

On the other side, Texas, making its fourth Final Four appearance, is led by forward Madison Booker, who averages 16.5 points per game while shooting 50% from the field. Head coach Vic Schaefer is focused on ensuring his players cherish this experience. “For my kids, I want them to enjoy this,” Schaefer stated at a media session. He highlighted the joy his players experience in earning such an opportunity.

The Longhorns split their two regular-season encounters against South Carolina, but faced a significant defeat in the SEC championship game, which could add pressure as they confront an informed Gamecocks squad.

In the second semifinal, UCLA looks to continue its historic run against UConn, a program with an extensive Final Four legacy. This will be UCLA’s first appearance at this stage, while UConn steps into its 24th. The Bruins owe much of their success to standout center Lauren Betts, who has recorded multiple 30-point games this tournament.

“We expected and believed that we would be in Tampa. And that being said, we’re really grateful, but we are ready to compete,” said head coach Cori Close. Her team, ranked No. 1 for most of the season, is eager for the challenge ahead.

Conversely, UConn, aiming to reclaim dominance after last winning a title in 2016, features the talented Azzi Fudd, who has been instrumental in scoring and leading the team, averaging 30.5 points across their last three games. The Huskies have emphasized solid scoring, defense, and overall team cohesion as they prepare for the challenge of facing the Bruins.

Both games promise to capture the spirit of competitive basketball and showcase the rising stars who could shape the future of women’s sports. Fans can tune in as action kicks off Friday at 7 p.m. ET, with coverage available on ESPN.