2025 Women’s Final Four Preview: UConn, UCLA, Texas, and South Carolina Face Off
The excitement builds as four of the nation’s top women’s basketball teams prepare for the 2025 Final Four in Tampa, Florida. Notable are three No. 1 seeds—UConn, South Carolina, and Texas—alongside No. 2 seed UCLA. The semifinals begin on Friday, with UConn taking on UCLA at 9 p.m. ET, preceded by Texas versus South Carolina at 7 p.m. ET, both available for viewers on ESPN.
Overview of Matchups
Analysts have largely agreed on favorites heading into the highly anticipated games, with a consensus on one matchup while opinions diverge for the other. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
UConn vs. UCLA
UConn’s Key Players and Strategy
A pivotal figure in UConn’s success is guard Paige Bueckers. Following a few inconsistent outings during the regular season, Bueckers has surged in the tournament, achieving over 25 points in multiple games. This performance has positioned her among the top NCAA competitors, with statistics showing she has accumulated eight such games across four Final Fours—historically significant over the past 25 years.
Against UCLA, UConn’s challenge lies in contending with the Bruins’ formidable frontcourt, specifically Lauren Betts, a notable presence at 6-foot-7. UConn features two freshmen in its starting post positions, which could prove to be crucial against the experienced and physically imposing UCLA lineup.
UCLA’s Path to Success
UCLA’s advancement can be attributed to the consistent dominance of Lauren Betts, who has proven to be a game-changer in the paint with standout performances, including significant defensive contributions. This match against UConn marks a historic moment for UCLA, as it reaches the Final Four for the first time in over four decades.
UCLA’s strategy will focus on maintaining composure and adhering to Coach Cori Close’s philosophy of “going 1-0.” This mantra emphasizes taking each match as it comes, which will be crucial as they take on a storied program steeped in postseason experience.
Texas vs. South Carolina
Texas’s Route to the Final Four
Texas earned its Final Four berth through resilience and strategic play, particularly in their Elite Eight win. The team’s stability under pressure was key to their successful outing against TCU. However, the Longhorns will need to amplify their scoring ability if they want to tackle South Carolina, especially given the Gamecocks’ defensive capabilities.
The Longhorns have struggled to score against South Carolina in previous matchups, averaging just 53.7 points across three encounters this season. For Texas to advance, Madison Booker, their leading scorer, must have a standout performance.
South Carolina’s Championship Mindset
Defending champion South Carolina has consistently demonstrated the mentality instilled by Coach Dawn Staley, emphasizing perseverance and minimizing errors. The Gamecocks will aim to rely on their experience and depth, especially as their younger players step up for a larger role in the team’s quest to defend their title.
In the face of previous offensive struggles, increased contributions from younger talents such as MiLaysia Fulwiley and Tessa Johnson will be essential in defeating Texas.
Expert Predictions
Predictions for these semifinal games reflect the teams’ recent performances and historical context:
- UConn vs. UCLA:
- Charlie Creme: UConn 82, UCLA 78
- Alexa Philippou: UConn 72, UCLA 70
- Michael Voepel: UCLA 75, UConn 73
- Texas vs. South Carolina:
- Charlie Creme: South Carolina 62, Texas 59
- Alexa Philippou: South Carolina 63, Texas 52
- Michael Voepel: South Carolina 65, Texas 60
Conclusion
The 2025 Women’s Final Four promises thrilling matchups featuring national powerhouses. With UConn’s historic legacy, UCLA’s resurgence, Texas’s grit, and South Carolina’s aim to defend its title, fans can expect high-stakes and intense competition as these teams vie for a spot in the national championship game.