NCAA Women’s Tournament 2025: Day 4 Highlights and Key Moments

The 2025 NCAA Women’s Tournament has been nothing short of spectacular. The final slate of second-round action provided a plethora of unforgettable moments. From thrilling comebacks to heartbreaking injuries, Day 4 of the tournament encapsulated the highs and lows of college basketball.

As teams battled for a spot in the Sweet 16, fans were treated to stellar performances and dramatic finishes. Let’s dive into the standout moments and key highlights from this exhilarating day of women’s college basketball.

UCLA and South Carolina Secure Sweet 16 Spots

On Sunday, eight teams punched their tickets to the Sweet 16, including top seeds UCLA and South Carolina. These teams showcased their dominance and set the stage for what promises to be an intense next round of competition.

UCLA’s solid defense and South Carolina’s offensive prowess were on full display, making them formidable contenders moving forward.

UCLA’s Defensive Masterclass

UCLA’s journey to the Sweet 16 was marked by their exceptional defensive play. The Bruins stifled their opponents, allowing minimal scoring opportunities and capitalizing on turnovers.

This defensive strategy will be crucial as they advance further in the tournament.

South Carolina’s Offensive Firepower

South Carolina, on the other hand, relied on their offensive depth to secure their spot. With multiple players contributing significant points, the Gamecocks demonstrated their ability to outscore and outlast their competition.

Their balanced attack makes them a team to watch in the upcoming rounds.

Texas and LSU Advance

Monday’s action saw No. 1 seed Texas and No. 3 seed LSU moving on to the Sweet 16. Texas cruised past their opponents with a commanding performance, while LSU’s victory marked their third consecutive Sweet 16 appearance.

Both teams displayed the skill and determination needed to make deep runs in the tournament.

Texas Dominates with Relentless Defense

Texas showcased their defensive prowess by smothering Illinois in a 65-48 victory. The Longhorns’ relentless ball pressure forced 20 turnovers, leading to 23 points off those mistakes.

This defensive intensity will be a key factor as they face tougher competition in the Sweet 16.

LSU’s Explosive Third Quarter

LSU’s win over Florida State was highlighted by an explosive third quarter where they outscored the Seminoles 31-6. Key players like Mikaylah Williams and Aneesah Morrow stepped up, delivering a series of electrifying plays that energized the home crowd and secured the victory.

UConn’s Paige Bueckers Shines in Home Finale

Paige Bueckers delivered a stellar performance in her final home game, leading No. 2 seed UConn to a 91-57 victory over South Dakota State. Bueckers matched her career high with 34 points, ensuring UConn’s 31st straight Sweet 16 appearance.

Her leadership and scoring ability will be crucial as the Huskies aim for their 12th national title.

Bueckers’ Impact on the Game

Bueckers’ ability to take over games was evident as she scored UConn’s last 10 points of the first quarter, including a buzzer-beating 3-pointer. Her performance set the tone for the Huskies, who will now face Oklahoma in the regional semifinal.

Supporting Cast Steps Up

While Bueckers was the star, her teammates also played pivotal roles. Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong contributed significantly, with Fudd scoring 17 points and Strong adding 15 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.

This balanced effort will be essential as UConn progresses in the tournament.

Maryland’s Double-Overtime Thriller

In what many are calling the game of the tournament so far, No. 4 seed Maryland overcame a 17-point deficit to defeat No. 5 seed Alabama in a double-overtime thriller.

Sarah Te-Biasu’s clutch performance, including a tying 3-pointer and eight points in the second overtime, propelled the Terrapins to a 111-108 victory.

Te-Biasu’s Heroics

Te-Biasu’s ability to perform under pressure was on full display as she hit crucial shots to keep Maryland in the game. Her performance was instrumental in securing the win and advancing the Terrapins to face top-seeded South Carolina in the Sweet 16.

Barker’s Record-Breaking Effort

Despite the loss, Alabama’s Sarah Ashlee Barker delivered a record-breaking performance with 45 points, the fourth-highest in tournament history. Her scoring prowess kept Alabama in contention and added to the drama of the double-overtime battle.

Other Notable Performances

The day was filled with other standout performances that contributed to the excitement of the tournament.

From North Carolina’s defensive lockdown to NC State’s record-setting 3-point shooting, each game brought its unique highlights.

North Carolina’s Defensive Mastery

Alyssa Ustby’s 21 points helped North Carolina secure a 58-47 victory over West Virginia, marking their first Sweet 16 appearance since 2022.

The Tar Heels’ defense played a crucial role, forcing turnovers and limiting West Virginia’s scoring opportunities.

NC State’s 3-Point Barrage

NC State set a program record with 15 made 3-pointers in their 83-49 victory over Michigan State. Aziaha James and Madison Hayes led the charge, combining for 43 points and showcasing the Wolfpack’s offensive firepower.

Looking Ahead

As the tournament progresses, fans can expect even more thrilling matchups and standout performances.

The Sweet 16 promises to bring high-stakes action as teams vie for a spot in the Elite Eight and beyond.

With top seeds like UCLA, South Carolina, Texas, and UConn still in the mix, the competition will only intensify.

For more detailed coverage and to stay updated on all the latest highlights, visit Fox Sports.