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3w ago

UCLA and UConn Set for Historic Final Four Showdown

Top-seeded UCLA faces perennial powerhouse UConn on Friday, with standout players Lauren Betts and Paige Bueckers leading their teams in Tampa.

Apr 3, 2025; Tampa, FL, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Cori Close talks to media before the NCAA Woman’s Final Four at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • UCLA is making its first-ever NCAA Final Four appearance after a record-breaking 34-win season, while UConn marks its 24th appearance as a dominant force in women's basketball.
  • The Bruins are led by Lauren Betts, who has delivered remarkable performances in the tournament, including multiple 30-point games and earning Naismith Defensive Player of the Year honors.
  • UConn's Paige Bueckers has been equally dominant, averaging over 30 points per game in recent matchups and anchoring the Huskies’ 14-game winning streak.
  • Despite being the No. 1 seed, UCLA enters the semifinal as the underdog against UConn, with both teams vying for a spot in Sunday’s national championship game.
  • UCLA coach Cori Close, recently named AP Coach of the Year, has drawn inspiration from UConn’s Geno Auriemma, who mentored her early in her career, adding depth to the rivalry.