The UConn women’s basketball team solidified its legendary status by capturing its 12th NCAA championship, defeating previously unbeaten South Carolina 78–68 in a commanding performance during the 2025 Women's March Madness title game.
Led by the star-studded trio of Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd, and Sarah Strong, the Huskies stunned a South Carolina squad that had been favored to complete a perfect season. It was a performance reminiscent of UConn’s dynastic dominance, blending veteran poise with rising-star energy.
Bueckers, who returned this season after recovering from an ACL injury, delivered a masterclass in leadership and skill. She posted 25 points, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds, earning the Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four. Her performance capped off a remarkable comeback journey and showcased why she remains one of the most electric talents in college basketball.
“This is what I came back for,” Bueckers said postgame. “To bring another title back to Storrs.”
While Bueckers took the spotlight, Azzi Fudd’s resurgence was a key narrative. After multiple seasons derailed by injuries, Fudd exploded for 22 points, hitting four three-pointers and displaying the sharpshooting form that made her one of the most highly-touted recruits in recent memory.
Her return to peak form came at the perfect time, lifting UConn’s offense and providing a crucial secondary scoring threat.
Not to be overshadowed, Sarah Strong, the nation’s top freshman, lived up to her billing with 18 points and 12 rebounds. Strong’s physicality and finesse helped neutralize South Carolina’s formidable frontcourt, giving UConn a consistent edge inside.
Strong’s presence on the boards and defensive tenacity were pivotal in stalling any late-game surge by the Gamecocks.
South Carolina, which entered the game undefeated and aiming for its third title under Dawn Staley, struggled to match UConn’s intensity. The Gamecocks committed 15 turnovers and never led after the first quarter.
Staley praised her team’s season but acknowledged the Huskies’ dominance: “They were the better team today. Bueckers and her crew were just relentless.”
The championship marks another jewel in the crown of Geno Auriemma, who now holds 12 NCAA titles, tying him with legendary UCLA men’s coach John Wooden. The win reaffirms UConn’s place atop the mountain of women’s college basketball and signals a possible new dynasty led by its current core.
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