Women's NCAA Final Four Semifinals Feature Defensive Battles and Shooting Struggles

In the first semifinal, UConn defeated UCLA 76-59. UConn relied primarily on its starting lineup, with reserves playing limited minutes. UCLA recorded 23 turnovers, a season high, which contributed to UConn's 22 points off turnovers. The game highlighted strong defensive play from both teams, limiting efficient offensive execution.

UConn's offense focused on primary sets, attempting fewer secondary options during the contest, as reported by @TheAthletic. Key performers for UConn included Paige Bueckers, who scored 28 points. UCLA's Charisma Osborne led her team with 18 points but struggled with efficiency amid the turnovers.

The second semifinal saw South Carolina beat Texas 65-57. South Carolina missed 15 layups during the game, reflecting challenges in close-range finishing. Texas' leading scorer, Madison Booker, attempted numerous shots but made only 6 out of 26 field goal attempts, totaling 20 misses.

South Carolina's defense forced Texas into difficult shots, holding them to 34% field goal shooting. The Gamecocks advanced to face UConn in the championship, a rematch of the 2022 final where South Carolina won 64-49. Both teams entered the weekend undefeated, with UConn on a 14-game win streak and South Carolina on a 36-game streak.

These semifinals drew significant attention as part of March Madness, with women's basketball viewership rising in recent years. The games affected players, coaches and fans, setting up high stakes for the title game. Next, UConn and South Carolina will compete for the national championship on Sunday at 3 p.m. ET, broadcast on ESPN.