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The 2025 NCAA Women's Basketball Championship is set: UConn and South Carolina will battle for the crown this Sunday at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida.
After a thrilling March Madness run, two of the sport's elite programs have reached the title game, with tip-off scheduled for Sunday, April 6 at 3 p.m. ET. The showdown will be broadcast live on ABC and stream on ESPN+.
South Carolina cruised past Texas 74-57 in the Final Four, while UConn thrashed UCLA 85-51, setting up a must-watch final between the Gamecocks, looking for their third title in four years, and the Huskies, chasing their first championship since 2016.
These two programs have a rich history of competition. Notably, they faced each other in the 2022 national championship game, where South Carolina emerged victorious with a 64-49 win.
UConn, led by legendary coach Geno Auriemma, aims to secure its 12th national title and first since 2016, ending a nearly decade-long championship drought.
Meanwhile, South Carolina seeks to defend its title and claim its third championship in four years, further solidifying its status as a dominant force in women's college basketball.
How to Watch the UConn vs South Carolina Championship Game
- Date and Time: Sunday, April 6, 2025, at 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Amalie Arena, Tampa, Florida
- TV Broadcast: ABC
- Live Streaming: Available on ESPN+
Team Journeys to the Final
The UConn Huskies (36-3) have demonstrated exceptional form throughout the tournament. In the Final Four, they delivered a commanding 85-51 victory over the UCLA Bruins.
Freshman forward Sarah Strong led the team with 22 points and eight rebounds, while Azzi Fudd contributed 19 points, all in the first half. Star guard Paige Bueckers added 16 points, showcasing the depth and versatility of UConn's roster.
The South Carolina Gamecocks (35-3), under the leadership of Coach Dawn Staley, secured their spot in the championship by defeating the Texas Longhorns 74-57.
Key performances came from Te-Hina Paopao with 14 points, Bree Hall with 13, and freshman Joyce Edwards, who recorded a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds off the bench.
The Gamecocks' robust defense has been a cornerstone of their success, allowing an average of just 55 points per game during the NCAA Tournament.
UConn's Offense vs. South Carolina's Defense
This championship game is poised to be a clash of titans, featuring UConn's high-powered offense against South Carolina's formidable defense. The Huskies have averaged 87.8 points per game, showcasing their offensive prowess.
Conversely, the Gamecocks' defense has been stifling, holding opponents to an average of 55 points per game in the tournament. This contrast sets the stage for a compelling battle for the national title.
Players to Watch
- Paige Bueckers (UConn): The All-American guard is seeking her first national championship, adding to her impressive collegiate resume.
- Azzi Fudd (UConn): After overcoming injury setbacks, Fudd has become a crucial contributor, delivering key performances throughout the tournament.
- Joyce Edwards (South Carolina): The freshman forward has been a standout performer, providing significant contributions on both ends of the court.
- Te-Hina Paopao (South Carolina): As a key player in the Gamecocks' backcourt, Paopao's experience and leadership will be vital in the championship game.
Anticipation and Expectations
The 2025 NCAA Women's Basketball National Championship promises to be a showcase of elite talent and strategic gameplay.
With both teams bringing their best to the court, fans can expect a riveting contest that highlights the pinnacle of women's collegiate basketball. Whether attending in person at Amalie Arena or tuning in via ABC or ESPN+, this is a game not to be missed.