UCLA Prepares for NCAA Women's Basketball Championship Game Against South Carolina

UCLA's women's basketball team will play South Carolina in the NCAA national championship game on Sunday at Footprint Center in Phoenix. This marks UCLA's first appearance in a title game. The Bruins last reached the Final Four in 2023, where they lost in the semifinals. UCLA has not won a national title since 1978, prior to the NCAA's governance of women's basketball.

Head coach Cori Close stated during a Saturday news conference that the team faced greater pressure during last year's Final Four than in the current championship run. She noted that the 2023 semifinal loss has influenced the team's preparation for this year's game.

Close described the approach as more strategic, allowing players to be positioned effectively for success. She mentioned that returning players from last year advised newcomers on what to expect at the Final Four, which has aided the team's readiness.

South Carolina, the Gamecocks, bring extensive experience to the matchup, having reached six consecutive Final Fours and their fourth national title game. UCLA advanced to the championship after defeating Texas 51-44 in the semifinals on Friday. Following the win, the Bruins did not celebrate extensively in the locker room, reflecting their focused mindset.

Close emphasized that the team entered the tournament with a clear goal of competing for the national championship at the highest level.

Player Gabriela Jaquez, who has played her entire college career at UCLA, described the team's current state as calm and confident. She stated that the players recognize their preparation and readiness for the game. Jaquez said the team feels destined to be in this position and will enter the contest focused.

Her comments underscore the Bruins' belief in their work ethic leading into the title game.

Guard Kiki Rice echoed the sentiment of improved preparation compared to last year. She indicated that the significance of the title game will not distract the team from their objectives. Rice affirmed that UCLA is ready to compete against South Carolina.

The matchup pits UCLA's growing experience against South Carolina's veteran presence, with the winner claiming the 2024 NCAA women's basketball championship.

The game holds stakes for both programs: a victory for UCLA would end a 46-year national title drought in women's basketball, while South Carolina seeks its third championship under coach Dawn Staley. Fans, players, and coaches from both sides are affected, with national attention on the outcome. Post-game, the champion will be determined, concluding the 2024 NCAA tournament.