Women’s Final Four: Top Players Set for High-Stakes Showdown in Tampa

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — The stage is set for the women’s Final Four, as the top players in college basketball gear up for critical matchups on Friday. As part of the NCAA tournament, the four competing teams include UConn, UCLA, South Carolina, and Texas, with each team showcasing key players vying for a chance at the national championship on Sunday.

Leading the pack is UConn guard Paige Bueckers, who enters Tampa after a remarkable campaign that has seen her score 71 points in her last two games. The redshirt senior, expected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming WNBA draft, has been a dominant force in her fourth Final Four appearance and is determined to claim her first national title.

“It’s been a long journey, and we’re here to finish what we started,” Bueckers said, reflecting on her team’s quest for glory on the biggest stage.

The matchups are highly anticipated, with UConn facing UCLA in the nightcap at 9 p.m. ET, while South Carolina will confront Texas at 7:30 p.m. ET. Both contests will be broadcast live on ESPN.

UCLA center Lauren Betts, a junior, has impressed throughout the tournament, becoming only the second player in two decades to achieve a 30-point, 10-rebound, and 80% shooting game in back-to-back outings. Her defensive prowess has also contributed to the team’s success, as she restricted opponents to just 17% shooting during contested shots.

“It’s all about teamwork, and we’re just playing our game,” said Betts, reflecting on her individual contributions to the Bruins’ success. “I can’t wait to compete against UConn.”

South Carolina’s roster is bolstered by several standout players, including the versatile Zia Cooke, who, despite facing defensive scrutiny in recent games, remains a key contributor for her team. The Gamecocks will face a tough Texas squad, which features SEC Player of the Year Rori Harmon, known for her defensive tenacity and pivotal assists.

Cokey Ferguson, head coach of South Carolina, stated, “It’s going to be a battle, but I know my players are ready. We have to be at our best against Texas.”

Harmon, whose journey back from an ACL injury signifies her resilience, leads Texas as their primary playmaker. Her ability to score at crucial moments is complemented by Madison Booker, who has shown consistent performance and adaptability throughout the tournament.

The stakes couldn’t be higher as each team prepares to fight for a spot in the championship game. The NCAA title will be contested on Sunday at 3 p.m. ET, promising an exciting culmination to the women’s tournament.

As player rankings were recently released, ESPN’s Kendra Andrews emphasized that the intensity of the Final Four and the players’ determination sets the tone for the upcoming games. “These athletes are competing not just for a title, but for their futures,” she remarked, alluding to the impending WNBA draft and the spotlight on these rising stars.