The Women’s NCAA Tournament National Championship Game lived up to its billing, with UConn dominating South Carolina 82-59 to claim the elusive title. Paige Bueckers’ stellar performance capped off an incredible tournament run, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest players in UConn history.

Geno Auriemma, the legendary UConn coach, celebrated his first championship in nine years, but his 12th overall. The victory marked a triumphant return to the top for the Huskies, who had been dethroned by the SEC’s dominant teams in recent years.

Azzi Fudd (who already announced she is returning) was named the Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four, a testament to her exceptional skills and clutch performances throughout the tournament. Freshman Sarah Strong was also a standout, delivering impressive performances in both Final Four games and earning a spot on the All-Tournament team.

The championship win brought an end to the SEC’s three-year reign, with South Carolina’s Dawn Staley and her team struggling to find their footing offensively during March Madness. Despite their valiant efforts, the Gamecocks were unable to overcome UConn’s potent offense and stifling defense.

UConn Husckies guard Paige Bueckers (5)
UConn Husckies guard Paige Bueckers (5)

Joyce Edwards, Chloe Kitts, and Milaysia Fulwiley were the bright spots for South Carolina, showcasing their individual talents amidst the team’s struggles. However, it was clear that UConn’s depth and chemistry were too much for the Gamecocks to handle.

As the dust settles on the 2025 Women’s NCAA Tournament, UConn’s championship win will be remembered as a defining moment in the program’s storied history. The Huskies’ triumph serves as a testament to their and Paige Bueckers’s dedication, perseverance, and commitment to excellence.

More On Paige Bueckers Journey

Paige Bueckers’ college basketball career was marred by significant injuries that derailed her journey. Here are the key details:

  • Injuries and Setbacks: Bueckers suffered a tibial plateau fracture and lateral meniscus tear in her left knee in December 2021, limiting her to 19 games in her sophomore season. She underwent surgery and returned to the court on February 25, 2022.
  • Torn ACL: Just as she was recovering, Bueckers tore her ACL in the same left knee while playing a pickup game in August 2022, forcing her to miss the entire 2022-2023 season.
  • Comeback and National Championship: After a long recovery, Bueckers made her comeback on November 8, 2023, and led UConn to its first national championship since 2016.

Despite these setbacks, Bueckers showed remarkable resilience and determination, culminating in her senior year with numerous career accolades, including:

  • Awards and Recognition: 2025 NCAA champion, Wade Trophy, AP Player of the Year, Naismith College Player of the Year, and three-time unanimous First Team All-American.
  • Career Statistics: Ranks third on UConn’s all-time scoring leaderboard with 2439 points and has the highest scoring average in program history (19.9 points per game).

The victory also marked a poignant conclusion to Paige Bueckers’ illustrious UConn career, leaving fans and pundits alike in awe of her remarkable achievements. As the new generation of college basketball stars begins to emerge, the legacy of Bueckers and her teammates will continue to inspire and influence the sport for years to come.

Check out our Women’s NCAA Final Four preview here.

Subscribe to College SportsCast for fun, original college sports Shows. Do not miss our weekly The Big Fuss Show for more college sports debates, hot topics, previews, and analysis.