UCLA Bruins Edge Texas Longhorns in Women's Final Four Showdown

In a thrilling Final Four matchup on April 3, 2026, the UCLA Bruins defeated the Texas Longhorns 51-44, securing their spot in the NCAA women's basketball championship game. This victory marked a poignant moment for the Bruins, who had previously suffered their only loss of the season to Texas earlier in the year.

Both teams entered the tournament as top seeds, with Texas holding a record of 35-3 and UCLA boasting an impressive 35-1. The game took place at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona, with a tip-off scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET, broadcast live on ESPN.

UCLA's head coach, Cori Close, had expressed confidence leading up to the game, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and aggression. “We’re excited for the opportunity to play Texas. I’m really confident in our team and how we’re going to be ready to compete,” she said at a media event prior to the match.

Senior center Lauren Betts, who has been a standout performer for the Bruins, highlighted the need for her team to create opportunities. “I think the biggest difference, looking back at the film, is just creating opportunities to get the ball as much as I can,” said Betts. “It’s not one person versus Texas; it’s a full team.” Her commitment to a team-oriented strategy was evident throughout the game.

The contest was tightly contested from the outset, with both teams trading baskets and defensive stands. Texas, which had been on a 12-game winning streak, came into the game with a scoring differential of +1105, averaging 85.0 points per game. The Longhorns had previously showcased their offensive prowess, including a decisive 77-41 victory over Michigan in their regional final.

In the first half, UCLA managed to leverage their strong defensive capabilities, holding Texas to just 44 points—well below their season average. The Bruins, who had won 29 games in a row since their loss to Texas, displayed resilience and determination. They had previously defeated Duke 70-58 to reach the Final Four, and they were determined to avenge their earlier defeat.

As the game progressed, Texas struggled to find their rhythm, hampered by UCLA's aggressive defense. The Bruins' ability to limit their opponents' scoring opportunities was a key factor in their success. UCLA's scoring differential was also impressive at +1008, with an average of 84.9 points per game.

In the final moments of the game, with both teams battling for supremacy, UCLA's experience and composure shone through. The Bruins managed to maintain a slim lead, thanks in large part to Betts' contributions on both ends of the court. She finished the game with a notable performance, scoring key points that helped secure the victory.

UCLA's triumph was a personal victory for the team and a historic moment for the program, as they advanced to the national championship game for the first time in their history. They will face the South Carolina Gamecocks, who defeated the UConn Huskies 62-48 in the other Final Four matchup, ending UConn's 54-game winning streak.

South Carolina's victory was characterized by their exceptional defense, which held UConn to their lowest shooting percentage of the season. The Gamecocks' performance was led by senior Ta'Niya Latson, who recorded a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds. This sets up an exciting championship game on April 5, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC.

As the championship game approaches, both teams will be looking to capitalize on their strengths. UCLA will aim to build on their defensive success and offensive cohesion, led by Betts and fellow standout Kiki Rice, who averaged 15.2 points per game this season. Meanwhile, South Carolina will be looking to continue their defensive dominance and leverage their recent momentum.

This Final Four matchup showcased the best of women's college basketball, with both teams demonstrating skill, determination, and a commitment to excellence. The stakes couldn't be higher as UCLA and South Carolina prepare to clash for the national title, promising an exhilarating showdown for fans.

With the championship game just around the corner, anticipation is building. Can UCLA secure their first national title, or will South Carolina continue their impressive run? The answer will come on Sunday, and fans across the country closely to see who emerges victorious.