Marshall Pulls Away Late to Defeat Arkansas State 69–62, Advances to WNIT Championship

VERMILLION, S.D. — Illinois State delivered a composed road performance Wednesday night, defeating South Dakota 67–60 in the WNIT semifinals to secure a spot in the championship game. The Redbirds improved to 24–13 on the season and advanced to the WNIT title game for the first time in program history, while South Dakota saw its season conclude at 26–10 after falling short despite a late comeback attempt on its home floor. Early Back-and-Forth Sets the Tone South Dakota came out with energy in front of its home crowd, establishing early momentum with an 8–0 run to take control in the opening minutes. The Coyotes used strong ball movement and efficient shooting to build a 17–12 lead by the end of the first quarter. Illinois State responded by staying composed and gradually settling into its offensive rhythm. Doneelah Washington played a key role early, helping the Redbirds remain within striking distance as they adjusted to South Dakota’s pace. The Coyotes extended their lead to 20–12 early in the second quarter, creating their largest advantage of the game. Illinois State answered immediately, using a 7–0 run to cut the deficit to one possession and shift momentum. Redbirds Take Control Before Halftime The second quarter turned into a tightly contested stretch, with both teams trading baskets and momentum. Illinois State began to find more consistent scoring opportunities, particularly through its frontcourt, which created mismatches and opened the floor. The Redbirds eventually took the lead late in the half and carried that momentum into the final seconds. A late basket gave Illinois State a 33–31 advantage heading into halftime, completing the turnaround after trailing earlier in the period. Third-Quarter Run Creates Separation Illinois State seized control early in the second half with a decisive scoring run. The Redbirds opened the third quarter with a 6–0 burst, quickly extending their lead and forcing South Dakota to respond. Washington continued to lead the charge, connecting from the perimeter and creating offensive opportunities that allowed Illinois State to build separation. The Redbirds followed with another scoring surge later in the quarter, pushing the lead to double digits. An 8–0 run capped by a three-pointer extended the margin to 50–39 late in the third quarter. Although South Dakota managed a late basket to trim the deficit, Illinois State entered the fourth quarter with a 50–41 lead and clear momentum. South Dakota Rallies but Falls Short South Dakota refused to let the game slip away, mounting a comeback effort in the fourth quarter. The Coyotes increased their defensive intensity and began to find more consistent scoring, cutting into the Redbirds’ lead. A 7–0 run reduced the deficit to single digits, and the home crowd provided energy as South Dakota continued to apply pressure. The Coyotes eventually trimmed the margin to just five points with under three minutes remaining, putting Illinois State under late-game pressure. Despite the surge, Illinois State maintained composure. The Redbirds responded with timely plays on both ends of the floor, preventing South Dakota from fully completing the comeback. Free Throws Seal the Victory The final minutes were defined by execution and discipline. Illinois State relied on its ability to convert at the free-throw line, making key shots to preserve its lead as South Dakota attempted to close the gap. South Dakota had opportunities to cut further into the deficit but was unable to string together enough stops and scoring possessions to take control. Illinois State’s ability to execute under pressure ultimately secured the 67–60 victory and a place in the championship game. Washington Leads Balanced Offensive Effort Doneelah Washington delivered a standout performance, leading Illinois State with 21 points and 11 rebounds to record a double-double. Her ability to impact the game both inside and from the perimeter proved to be a decisive factor. Washington also connected on four three-pointers, providing a scoring boost that helped Illinois State build and maintain its lead throughout the second half. The Redbirds received strong support across the lineup, with Addison Martin and Trista Fayta each contributing 14 points. Bella Finnegan added 10 points, giving Illinois State four players in double figures and reinforcing its balanced offensive approach. Defense and Efficiency Make the Difference Illinois State’s defensive execution played a critical role in the win. The Redbirds disrupted South Dakota’s offensive rhythm, forcing difficult shots and limiting efficient scoring opportunities. The Redbirds also maintained strong offensive efficiency, shooting 49 percent from the field and consistently converting scoring chances throughout the game. South Dakota showed resilience, particularly in the fourth quarter, but struggled with consistency and shot selection against Illinois State’s defensive pressure. South Dakota’s Season Ends on Strong Note South Dakota concluded its season with 26 wins and one of its deepest postseason runs in program history. The Coyotes demonstrated competitiveness and resilience throughout the WNIT, including a strong effort in the semifinal matchup. Molly Joyce led South Dakota with 16 points, while Angelina Robles added 14. The team’s late comeback effort highlighted its ability to compete under pressure, even as the early deficit proved too difficult to overcome. Final Takeaway Illinois State’s 67–60 victory over South Dakota was defined by composure, balanced scoring, and second-half execution. The Redbirds overcame an early deficit, built separation in the third quarter, and held off a late rally to secure the win. South Dakota showed resilience and pushed the game to the final minutes, but Illinois State’s efficiency and ability to execute in key moments proved decisive. With the victory, Illinois State advances to the WNIT Championship for the first time in program history, setting up a final matchup against Marshall with a postseason title on the line. 

WICHITA, Kan. — Columbia completed a dominant postseason run Wednesday night, defeating BYU 81–64 at Charles Koch Arena to win the Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament championship. The fourth-seeded Lions finished the tournament in commanding fashion, controlling the game from start to finish and securing the program’s postseason title behind balanced scoring and consistent execution. BYU, the tournament’s top seed, saw its strong run end after an impressive late push fell short. Columbia Sets the Tone Early Columbia established control in the opening quarter, using defensive pressure and efficient shot-making to create early separation. After a brief back-and-forth start, the Lions delivered a 10–2 run that shifted momentum and forced BYU into a difficult offensive rhythm. The Cougars struggled to convert early opportunities, shooting inefficiently and missing several open looks. Columbia capitalized by pushing the pace and generating transition opportunities, building a 19–10 lead by the end of the first quarter. That early advantage set the foundation for the rest of the game, as Columbia maintained control and dictated tempo. Second Quarter Expands the Lead The Lions extended their lead in the second quarter with a combination of perimeter shooting and interior scoring. Riley Weiss and Mia Broom led the charge, combining for a scoring surge that stretched the margin to double digits. Columbia’s offensive efficiency remained steady, while its defense continued to disrupt BYU’s rhythm. The Cougars attempted to respond with improved ball movement and perimeter shooting, but Columbia answered each push with timely baskets. By halftime, the Lions held a 42–24 lead, reflecting their dominance on both ends of the floor. BYU Shows Fight, But Columbia Maintains Control BYU showed increased energy in the second half, focusing on defensive pressure and transition opportunities to cut into the deficit. The Cougars forced turnovers and generated second-chance points, briefly gaining momentum during stretches of the third quarter. However, Columbia responded consistently, using disciplined offense and strong execution to maintain its advantage. The Lions opened the third quarter with a 7–0 run, pushing the lead beyond 20 points and preventing BYU from making a sustained comeback. Columbia’s ability to control key possessions allowed it to carry a 60–37 lead into the fourth quarter, keeping the game firmly in its favor. Fourth-Quarter Surge Falls Short for BYU BYU mounted its strongest push in the final period, delivering a late surge fueled by transition scoring and aggressive play in the paint. The Cougars went on a 13–0 run, cutting the deficit significantly and creating brief momentum. During that stretch, BYU capitalized on fast-break opportunities and second-chance points, trimming the margin to single digits with under a minute remaining. Despite the surge, the early deficit proved too large to overcome. Columbia remained composed, responding with free throws and interior scoring to halt the momentum and secure the victory. Balanced Scoring Leads Columbia Columbia’s success was driven by balanced production across its lineup. Mia Broom led all scorers with 23 points, delivering efficient shooting and consistent scoring throughout the game. Riley Weiss added 20 points, including a strong first-half performance that helped establish the early lead. Susie Rafiu contributed 12 points and eight rebounds, while Nasi Simmons added 10 points, giving the Lions four players in double figures. The balanced scoring prevented BYU from focusing its defensive efforts on a single player and allowed Columbia to maintain offensive consistency. BYU’s Effort Led by Gibb and Hamlin BYU received strong performances from Delaney Gibb and Olivia Hamlin, who led the Cougars offensively. Gibb finished with 24 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, while Hamlin added 17 points. The Cougars also found success in physical areas, finishing with 46 rebounds and generating 20 second-chance points. BYU outscored Columbia in the paint and created multiple fast-break opportunities, particularly during the fourth quarter. Despite those efforts, BYU struggled with perimeter shooting, connecting on just four three-pointers and limiting its ability to keep pace with Columbia’s scoring output. Columbia’s Consistency Proves Decisive Columbia’s ability to maintain control throughout the game proved to be the difference. The Lions never trailed and built leads through consistent execution in both halves. Their defense limited BYU’s scoring efficiency early, while their offense capitalized on opportunities to create separation. Even when BYU made its late push, Columbia responded with composure and secured the win through disciplined play. The victory capped a strong tournament run in which Columbia controlled nearly every game and demonstrated its ability to perform under pressure. Final Takeaway Columbia’s 81–64 win over BYU was defined by early dominance, balanced scoring, and steady execution. The Lions built a substantial first-half lead, maintained control through the third quarter, and held off a late BYU surge to secure the championship. BYU showed resilience and produced a strong fourth-quarter effort, but the early deficit and shooting struggles proved too difficult to overcome. With the victory, Columbia claims the WBIT title and concludes its postseason run with momentum, while BYU wraps up a successful season that included a deep tournament run and strong overall performance. 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — South Carolina delivered a dominant fourth-quarter performance to defeat TCU 78–52 in the Elite Eight, using its depth, rebounding advantage, and late-game execution to secure another trip to the Women’s Final Four. The top-seeded Gamecocks improved to 34–3 on the season and continued their remarkable postseason consistency, advancing to the Final Four for the seventh time in the past nine years. TCU, seeded third, concluded its season at 32–6 after remaining competitive for much of the game before being overwhelmed in the closing minutes. TCU Starts Strong, Challenges Early TCU entered the matchup with confidence and delivered one of its strongest early stretches of the tournament. The Horned Frogs opened the game with aggressive offense and efficient execution, jumping out to an early lead and forcing South Carolina to adjust. TCU built a 12–4 advantage midway through the first quarter and carried that momentum into the second period. The Horned Frogs extended their lead to 22–18 early in the second quarter, creating pressure on a South Carolina team that had dominated its previous tournament games. The Gamecocks, however, responded with composure, gradually settling into their offensive rhythm while tightening defensively. Second-Quarter Run Shifts Momentum The turning point of the first half came late in the second quarter, when South Carolina delivered a decisive 17–5 run to regain control. The surge was fueled by improved shot selection, defensive stops, and consistent interior scoring. South Carolina’s ability to control the paint and capitalize on rebounds allowed it to generate second-chance opportunities, shifting momentum in its favor. The Gamecocks closed the half with a 35–27 lead, having erased TCU’s early advantage and established control heading into the break. Competitive Third Quarter Keeps Game Close TCU remained within reach throughout the third quarter, showing resilience and maintaining pressure on South Carolina. The Horned Frogs cut the deficit to single digits multiple times, including trimming the margin to 47–39 late in the period. Olivia Miles led TCU’s effort, providing consistent scoring and playmaking while helping the team stay competitive. Despite the Gamecocks’ size and depth, TCU continued to fight on both ends of the floor, preventing South Carolina from pulling away early. However, the physical demands of the game began to take a toll as South Carolina’s depth and rebounding advantage became more apparent. Fourth Quarter Decides the Outcome South Carolina took full control in the final quarter, delivering a dominant performance that turned a competitive game into a decisive victory. The Gamecocks opened the fourth period with a scoring surge that quickly created separation. Joyce Edwards and Agot Makeer led the charge, combining to score the first 12 points of the quarter and pushing the lead into double digits. The Gamecocks outscored TCU 29–11 in the fourth quarter, showcasing their ability to execute under pressure and close out games effectively. South Carolina’s defense also tightened during this stretch, limiting TCU’s scoring opportunities and forcing contested shots. The Horned Frogs struggled to generate offense as the Gamecocks controlled both ends of the floor. Edwards and Makeer Lead Balanced Attack Joyce Edwards delivered a standout performance, finishing with 24 points, 12 rebounds, and multiple defensive contributions. Her presence inside played a major role in South Carolina’s ability to control the paint and dominate the glass. Agot Makeer added 18 points, providing a significant scoring boost and contributing across multiple areas. Her production off the bench gave South Carolina additional depth and offensive flexibility. Together, Edwards and Makeer anchored a balanced offensive effort that allowed the Gamecocks to maintain consistency and extend their lead in the second half. Rebounding and Depth Prove Decisive South Carolina’s dominance on the glass played a critical role in the outcome. The Gamecocks held a significant rebounding advantage, finishing with a 52–24 edge and converting offensive rebounds into second-chance points. This advantage allowed South Carolina to control possessions and limit TCU’s opportunities to generate scoring runs. The Gamecocks’ depth also contributed to their success, as multiple players provided key contributions throughout the game. TCU’s Run Ends After Strong Season TCU delivered a competitive performance, particularly in the first half and throughout the third quarter, but struggled to match South Carolina’s physicality and depth over the full 40 minutes. Olivia Miles led the Horned Frogs with 18 points and six assists, providing leadership and consistent production. However, TCU’s offense became less efficient in the fourth quarter, and the team was unable to respond to South Carolina’s late surge. Despite the loss, TCU completed one of the most successful seasons in program history, including a conference championship, a 30-win campaign, and consecutive Elite Eight appearances. Final Takeaway South Carolina’s 78–52 victory over TCU was defined by resilience, depth, and late-game execution. After facing early pressure and a competitive third quarter, the Gamecocks delivered a dominant fourth-quarter performance to secure the win. TCU showed the ability to compete with one of the nation’s top teams but could not overcome South Carolina’s rebounding advantage and scoring surge in the final period. With the victory, South Carolina advances to the Final Four with momentum and experience, continuing its pursuit of another national championship as the tournament reaches its final stage.

FORT WORTH, Texas — Texas delivered one of the most dominant performances of the NCAA Women’s Tournament, overwhelming Michigan 77–41 in the Elite Eight at Dickies Arena to secure a spot in the Final Four. The third-ranked Longhorns improved to 35–3 on the season and advanced to the Final Four for the fifth time in program history, marking their second consecutive appearance at this stage. Michigan, seeded second, saw its historic season come to an end at 28 wins after being unable to match Texas’ physicality and defensive pressure. Fast Start Sets the Tone Texas established control from the opening minutes, executing with near-perfect efficiency on both ends of the floor. The Longhorns connected on their first nine field-goal attempts, quickly building momentum and forcing Michigan into a defensive posture. That early efficiency fueled a 10–0 run that created immediate separation. Texas continued to push the tempo, converting high-percentage looks while limiting Michigan’s offensive opportunities. By the end of the first quarter, the Longhorns held a commanding 22–9 lead, reflecting their dominance in both scoring and defensive execution. The Wolverines struggled to find rhythm against Texas’ aggressive defensive scheme, which disrupted ball movement and forced contested shots. Michigan entered the game averaging over 80 points per contest but was held well below that pace from the outset. Defense and Rebounding Maintain Control Michigan showed brief resistance in the second quarter, tightening defensively and slowing Texas’ scoring for stretches. The Wolverines managed to limit scoring opportunities and briefly stabilized the game, but the Longhorns maintained control through rebounding and interior play. Texas consistently won possession battles, controlling the glass and preventing second-chance opportunities for Michigan. The Longhorns also capitalized on turnovers, turning defensive stops into transition points that preserved their advantage. By halftime, Texas held a 34–21 lead, a margin built on defensive discipline and efficient shot selection. Despite Michigan’s improved effort in the second quarter, the Wolverines were unable to significantly reduce the deficit. Third Quarter Extends the Margin Texas extended its dominance after the break, continuing to dictate the pace and control key areas of the game. The Longhorns maintained their defensive intensity, limiting Michigan’s ability to generate clean looks and forcing the Wolverines into inefficient shooting. Michigan briefly cut the deficit early in the third quarter, but Texas responded quickly, reestablishing control through interior scoring and strong defensive rotations. The Longhorns’ ability to answer every Michigan push prevented the game from becoming competitive. As the quarter progressed, Texas widened the gap, maintaining a double-digit lead and entering the final period firmly in control. Fourth-Quarter Run Seals the Win Any remaining hopes of a Michigan comeback were eliminated early in the fourth quarter. Texas opened the period with a decisive 14–0 run, turning a comfortable lead into a dominant margin that removed any doubt about the outcome. The Longhorns continued to dominate the paint, finishing with a significant advantage in interior scoring while also controlling rebounds. Texas outrebounded Michigan 49–32 and held a 36–18 edge in points in the paint, underscoring its physical advantage throughout the game. The defensive effort remained consistent through the final minutes, as Texas limited Michigan to just 41 total points, far below its season average. Balanced Scoring Powers Texas Texas received strong contributions across its lineup, with four players scoring in double figures. Madison Booker led all scorers with 19 points while also adding seven rebounds, providing a steady offensive presence from start to finish. Justice Carlton contributed 15 points and seven rebounds, while Kyla Oldacre recorded a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, anchoring the interior. Breya Cunningham added 11 points and seven rebounds, giving Texas consistent production in the paint. The balanced scoring allowed Texas to maintain offensive efficiency while preventing Michigan from focusing its defensive attention on a single player. Michigan’s Season Ends Despite Strong Campaign Michigan entered the game with one of the most productive offenses in the country but struggled to find consistency against Texas’ defense. The Wolverines shot inefficiently and were unable to generate the scoring runs needed to stay competitive.  Olivia Olson and Mila Holloway led Michigan with 11 points each, providing the team’s most reliable offensive production. However, the lack of additional scoring support and the inability to match Texas’ physicality proved decisive. Despite the loss, Michigan’s season included significant achievements, including a record-tying win total and one of the deepest tournament runs in program history. Texas Continues Historic Run The victory extended Texas’ winning streak to 12 games and marked its fourth consecutive double-digit win in the NCAA Tournament. The Longhorns have now established themselves as one of the most dominant teams remaining in the field. The program’s sustained success reflects both depth and consistency, with Texas compiling over 100 wins across the past three seasons and continuing to perform at a high level against top competition. Final Takeaway Texas’ 77–41 victory over Michigan was defined by defensive dominance, rebounding control, and balanced scoring. The Longhorns dictated the game from the opening minutes, extended their lead through consistent execution, and closed with authority in the fourth quarter. Michigan showed resilience at times but was unable to overcome Texas’ physicality and defensive pressure. The Longhorns’ ability to control every major phase of the game ultimately produced one of the most convincing wins of the tournament. With the victory, Texas advances to the Final Four with momentum and confidence, positioning itself as a serious contender for the national championship as the season reaches its final stage.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — UConn delivered one of the most dramatic comebacks in NCAA Tournament history, erasing a massive deficit and defeating top-seeded Duke 73–72 in the East Regional Final at Capital One Arena. The Huskies completed the rally with a deep three-pointer in the final second, securing a return to the Final Four and ending Duke’s championship run in stunning fashion. The victory lifted second-seeded UConn to 33–5 on the season and sent the program to its third Final Four in four years. Duke, which entered the tournament as the No. 1 overall seed, finished its season at 35–3 after suffering one of the most heartbreaking losses of the tournament. Duke Builds Early Control Duke established dominance early, controlling the pace and executing efficiently on both ends of the floor. The Blue Devils quickly built a double-digit lead behind strong perimeter shooting and transition scoring, forcing UConn into a reactive position. A decisive first-half run pushed Duke’s advantage to 40–21, highlighting the Blue Devils’ ability to generate stops and convert them into points. Their defensive pressure limited UConn’s offensive rhythm, while their ball movement created high-quality scoring opportunities. By halftime, Duke held a commanding 44–29 lead, appearing firmly in control and on track to secure a Final Four berth. UConn Begins Second-Half Rally UConn responded immediately after the break, showing increased energy and improved execution. The Huskies tightened defensively and began to generate offense through both transition opportunities and interior scoring. Tarris Reed Jr. emerged as the driving force behind the comeback. The senior delivered a dominant performance, consistently finishing in the paint while also contributing defensively with blocks and rebounds. His presence allowed UConn to gradually chip away at Duke’s lead. As the second half progressed, UConn’s efficiency improved significantly. The Huskies found better spacing, converted key possessions, and forced Duke into more difficult offensive sequences. The deficit steadily shrank as UConn built momentum. Momentum Shifts Late With under seven minutes remaining, Duke still held a 10-point advantage, but UConn continued to apply pressure. The Huskies capitalized on turnovers and second-chance opportunities, turning defensive stops into scoring runs. A series of key baskets brought UConn within a single possession, setting up a tense closing stretch. Duke attempted to maintain control, responding with timely scores, but the Huskies’ persistence kept the game within reach. UConn’s defensive intensity proved critical during this stretch. The Huskies forced multiple turnovers and limited Duke’s ability to execute cleanly in half-court situations, allowing them to close the gap further. Final Minute Delivers Historic Finish The final minute produced one of the most memorable sequences of the tournament. Duke held a narrow lead in the closing seconds, but UConn executed under pressure to create a final opportunity. After a defensive play forced a turnover, the Huskies quickly advanced the ball into the frontcourt. With time winding down, Braylon Mullins received the ball near midcourt and launched a deep three-pointer from well beyond the arc. The shot connected with less than a second remaining, giving UConn its first lead since the opening moments of the game and completing the comeback. Duke’s final inbound attempt was unsuccessful, sealing a 73–72 victory for the Huskies. Reed Jr. Leads UConn’s Effort Reed Jr. delivered one of the most impactful performances of the tournament, finishing with 26 points and nine rebounds. His ability to dominate inside provided the foundation for UConn’s comeback and earned him recognition as the region’s most outstanding player. UConn also received balanced contributions across the roster. Multiple players scored in double figures, and the team’s depth allowed it to maintain intensity throughout the second half. Despite struggling from three-point range for much of the game, UConn made timely shots when it mattered most, including the decisive basket in the closing seconds. Duke Falls Short After Strong Start Duke controlled large portions of the game and appeared poised to advance, but the Blue Devils were unable to sustain their early dominance. Cameron Boozer led Duke with 27 points and eight rebounds, providing consistent production throughout the contest. The Blue Devils maintained efficiency offensively for much of the game, but turnovers and defensive lapses in the second half allowed UConn to regain momentum. Duke was outscored 44–28 after halftime, a decisive shift that ultimately determined the outcome. Despite holding a lead deep into the second half, Duke struggled to close out the game as UConn’s pressure increased. Historic Comeback Sends UConn Forward UConn’s rally from a deficit that reached as high as 19 points ranks among the most notable comebacks in NCAA Tournament history. The Huskies demonstrated resilience and execution, overcoming early struggles to deliver a performance that will be remembered for years. The win also continued UConn’s success in late-round tournament games, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most consistent postseason programs in recent years. Final Takeaway UConn’s 73–72 victory over Duke was defined by persistence, defensive adjustments, and late-game execution. The Huskies absorbed an early deficit, steadily regained control, and delivered a decisive moment in the final seconds to complete the comeback. Duke’s strong first half and overall performance were not enough to secure the win, as UConn’s second-half surge and composure under pressure proved decisive. With the victory, UConn advances to the Final Four with momentum and confidence, while Duke’s season ends in a game that will stand as one of the most dramatic finishes of the tournament. 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — UCLA delivered a dominant second-half turnaround to defeat Duke 70–58 in the Elite Eight, overcoming a halftime deficit and securing a return trip to the Women’s Final Four. The top-seeded Bruins improved to 35 wins on the season, the most in program history, and advanced to the Final Four for the second consecutive year. Duke, seeded third, saw its tournament run end after controlling much of the first half before being overwhelmed after the break. Duke Controls First Half Behind Defensive Pressure Duke entered the matchup with a clear defensive game plan and executed it effectively in the opening half. The Blue Devils applied consistent pressure, forced turnovers, and disrupted UCLA’s offensive rhythm. The Bruins struggled to establish their usual flow, committing multiple turnovers and failing to consistently capitalize on touches inside. Duke converted those opportunities into points, building an advantage through transition scoring and disciplined half-court execution. UCLA’s offense showed flashes of efficiency, but the lack of consistency and ball security prevented the Bruins from gaining control. Duke’s defensive intensity limited second-chance opportunities and kept UCLA from building momentum. By halftime, Duke held a 39–31 lead, reflecting its ability to dictate the tempo and capitalize on UCLA’s early struggles. Second Half Marks Complete Shift in Momentum The game shifted dramatically after the break as UCLA emerged with renewed intensity on both ends of the floor. The Bruins quickly adjusted their approach, focusing on rebounding, interior scoring, and defensive discipline. UCLA began to control the pace, limiting Duke’s offensive opportunities while generating efficient scoring possessions. The Bruins’ defense tightened significantly, forcing Duke into difficult shots and extended scoring droughts. A key moment came late in the third quarter when UCLA regained the lead for the first time since the opening minutes. A perimeter shot sparked the momentum shift, and the Bruins maintained control from that point forward. UCLA outscored Duke 39–19 in the second half, a decisive swing that turned a halftime deficit into a comfortable victory. Betts Leads Dominant Second-Half Effort Lauren Betts anchored UCLA’s comeback with a dominant all-around performance. The senior finished with 23 points and 10 rebounds, recording a double-double while also contributing defensively with multiple blocks. Betts’ presence in the paint became a defining factor after halftime. She controlled the glass, finished through contact, and altered shots on the defensive end, helping UCLA regain control of the game’s physical areas. Her ability to impact both ends of the floor allowed UCLA to sustain momentum and extend its lead throughout the second half. Defensive Adjustments Shut Down Duke UCLA’s defensive transformation played a critical role in the outcome. After allowing Duke to control the first half, the Bruins limited scoring opportunities and forced the Blue Devils into extended droughts. Duke was held without a field goal for a significant stretch late in the third quarter, allowing UCLA to build separation. The Bruins’ ability to close out possessions and control rebounds prevented Duke from generating second-chance opportunities. Even when Duke briefly regained offensive rhythm early in the fourth quarter, UCLA responded quickly and maintained control of the game. Balanced Production Supports UCLA’s Surge While Betts led the way, UCLA received contributions across the lineup. The Bruins’ veteran leadership played a major role in the turnaround, with experienced players providing scoring, rebounding, and defensive stability. UCLA’s balanced attack allowed the team to maintain efficiency and prevent Duke from focusing defensive attention on a single player. The Bruins executed effectively in transition and half-court situations, ensuring consistent production throughout the second half. The team’s ability to share scoring responsibilities and maintain composure under pressure proved essential in completing the comeback. Duke Unable to Sustain First-Half Success Duke showed strong execution in the first half, particularly on the defensive end, but struggled to maintain that level after halftime. The Blue Devils’ offense became less efficient as UCLA tightened defensively, and scoring opportunities became more limited. Despite early success from its backcourt, Duke was unable to generate consistent production in the second half. The team’s offensive rhythm declined, and the inability to respond to UCLA’s run proved decisive. Duke remained competitive for stretches but could not overcome the momentum shift as UCLA extended its lead late in the game. Historic Step Forward for UCLA The victory marked another milestone for UCLA, as the Bruins continued their pursuit of the program’s first national championship. Advancing to the Final Four for the second straight year reflects the program’s growth and consistency at the highest level of competition. UCLA’s ability to respond to adversity and deliver a dominant second-half performance reinforced its status as one of the top teams in the tournament. Final Takeaway UCLA’s 70–58 win over Duke was defined by second-half execution, defensive adjustments, and strong leadership. The Bruins overcame early struggles, controlled the pace after halftime, and delivered a decisive performance to secure the victory. Duke’s strong first half demonstrated its defensive capability, but UCLA’s adjustments and dominance in key areas proved too much to overcome. With the win, UCLA advances to the Final Four with momentum and confidence, positioning itself for a championship push as the tournament reaches its final stage.

FORT WORTH, Texas — UConn once again proved why it remains one of the most dominant programs in college basketball, defeating Notre Dame 70–52 in the Elite Eight to secure its 25th Final Four appearance in program history. The top-seeded Huskies improved to 38–0 on the season, extending their winning streak to 54 games and continuing a remarkable run of consistency on the national stage. With the victory, UConn advances to the Final Four in Phoenix, where it will pursue another national championship. Notre Dame, the No. 6 seed, concluded its season at 25–11 after a strong tournament run that included a return to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2019. Freshman Sparks UConn’s First-Half Control While UConn entered the game with star power at the top of its lineup, it was freshman Blanca Quiñonez who set the tone early. The guard delivered an immediate impact, scoring 14 points in the first half and helping UConn build momentum as the offense struggled to find its usual rhythm. Quiñonez’s scoring proved critical during a stretch when UConn’s leading players were slowed by Notre Dame’s physical defensive approach. Her ability to attack the basket and convert perimeter opportunities allowed the Huskies to maintain control even as their primary scoring options adjusted. UConn used that early spark to build a steady lead, gradually creating separation through defensive pressure and efficient scoring. The Huskies entered halftime with a 32–25 advantage, having limited Notre Dame’s offensive production while finding timely contributions across the roster. Notre Dame Battles Behind Hidalgo Notre Dame relied heavily on standout guard Hannah Hidalgo, who delivered another strong performance in the postseason. Hidalgo led the Irish with 22 points and 11 rebounds, providing consistent production on both ends of the floor.  Her ability to create offense and control tempo helped keep Notre Dame within reach during the first half. The Irish also showed improved physicality compared to previous matchups, competing effectively on the defensive end and limiting UConn’s early scoring runs. However, Notre Dame struggled to generate balanced scoring. No other player reached double figures, placing increased pressure on Hidalgo to carry the offensive load throughout the game. Huskies Extend Lead in Second Half UConn took control of the game in the third quarter, using a combination of defensive stops and interior scoring to extend its lead. The Huskies opened the second half with a scoring push that created double-digit separation and forced Notre Dame into a difficult position. Even during a brief offensive drought in the third quarter, UConn’s defense prevented Notre Dame from making a significant run. The Irish were unable to capitalize on missed opportunities, allowing the Huskies to maintain control despite several empty possessions. Once UConn regained its offensive rhythm, the lead continued to grow. The Huskies pushed the margin to double digits and maintained that advantage heading into the final quarter. Strong and Fudd Take Over Late After a slow start, UConn’s leading scorers took control in the second half. Sarah Strong led the Huskies with 21 points, delivering a dominant performance that included a decisive fourth quarter. Her scoring inside and ability to finish through contact helped UConn maintain its advantage. Azzi Fudd added 13 points and provided key contributions during the closing stretch, including timely baskets that prevented Notre Dame from mounting a comeback. Together, Strong and Fudd anchored UConn’s offense in the second half, complementing Quiñonez’s early impact and ensuring the Huskies maintained control throughout the final period. Defensive Depth and Balance Make the Difference UConn’s depth and defensive discipline played a major role in the outcome. The Huskies consistently applied pressure, limited Notre Dame’s scoring opportunities, and controlled key areas such as rebounding and transition defense. The team’s ability to rotate defenders and maintain intensity helped neutralize Notre Dame’s offensive rhythm. Hidalgo remained productive, but the lack of additional scoring options prevented the Irish from closing the gap. UConn also benefited from contributions across the roster, with multiple players stepping up in key moments to support the team’s overall performance. Notre Dame’s Run Ends Short of Final Four Notre Dame’s tournament run showcased resilience and growth, highlighted by a return to the Elite Eight and several strong performances along the way. The Irish competed with physicality and effort, particularly in the first half, but were unable to sustain that level against UConn’s depth and execution. Despite the loss, Notre Dame demonstrated its ability to compete at a high level, setting a foundation for continued success in future seasons. Final Takeaway UConn’s 70–52 victory over Notre Dame was defined by depth, defensive execution, and timely scoring. The Huskies relied on a strong first-half performance from Blanca Quiñonez and a dominant second-half effort from Sarah Strong to secure the win. Notre Dame showed competitiveness and relied on a standout performance from Hannah Hidalgo, but UConn’s balanced attack and ability to control the game’s key moments proved decisive. With the victory, UConn advances to its 25th Final Four appearance, continuing its legacy as one of the most consistent and dominant programs in college basketball while positioning itself for another championship run.