Top Seeds Shine in Women’s Elite Eight as UConn Leads

The 2025 Women’s NCAA Tournament has reached the Elite Eight, and the competition is fiercer than ever. With powerhouse teams like UConn, UCLA, and South Carolina still in the mix, basketball fans are in for some thrilling matchups.

This article delves into the journey of each team to the Elite Eight, highlighting key players and pivotal moments that have defined their tournament runs. For a detailed breakdown and rankings of the final eight teams, you can refer to the original article on ESPN.

UConn Huskies: A Dominant Force

The UConn Huskies, originally seeded No. 2 in the Spokane 4 region, have been nothing short of spectacular. They have won their three NCAA tournament games by an average of 42 points, showcasing their dominance on both ends of the court.

Paige Bueckers: A Historic Performance

Paige Bueckers has been the standout player for UConn, delivering the greatest two-game stretch of her career. She set a career-high with 34 points against South Dakota State and followed it up with a 40-point performance against Oklahoma.

Bueckers’ scoring prowess has been pivotal for the Huskies as they prepare to face USC in the Elite Eight.

UCLA Bruins: Betts Leads the Charge

As the No. 1 seed in the Spokane 1 region, the UCLA Bruins have lived up to expectations. Their journey to the Elite Eight has been marked by stellar performances and strategic gameplay.

Lauren Betts: The Key to Success

Lauren Betts has been the cornerstone of UCLA’s success. Her back-to-back 30-point, 10-rebound games have placed her in elite company, alongside legends like Elena Delle Donne and Brittney Griner.

Betts’ ability to dominate in the paint has been crucial for the Bruins, who are now set to face LSU.

South Carolina Gamecocks: Consistency and Grit

South Carolina, the No. 1 seed in the Birmingham 2 region, has relied on a blend of consistency and standout performances to reach the Elite Eight.

MiLaysia Fulwiley: The X-Factor

MiLaysia Fulwiley has been a revelation for the Gamecocks. Her 23-point performance against Maryland was instrumental in securing their spot in the Elite Eight.

Fulwiley’s ability to step up in crucial moments makes her a player to watch as South Carolina prepares to face Duke.

Texas Longhorns: Defense Wins Championships

The Texas Longhorns, seeded No. 1 in the Birmingham 3 region, have showcased a defensive masterclass throughout the tournament. Their ability to stifle opponents has been key to their success.

Freshmen Stepping Up

With strategic lineup adjustments, Texas coach Vic Schaefer has effectively utilized his freshmen. Bryanna Preston and Jordan Lee have played pivotal roles, combining for 25 points in their win over Tennessee.

This depth will be crucial as they face TCU in the Elite Eight.

TCU Horned Frogs: A Magical Run

TCU, the No. 2 seed in the Birmingham 3 region, has had a remarkable journey to their first Elite Eight appearance. Their success has been driven by standout performances and solid team play.

Hailey Van Lith: The Playoff Performer

Hailey Van Lith has been the driving force behind TCU’s magical run. Her 26-point performance against Notre Dame was crucial in overcoming a nine-point deficit.

Van Lith’s postseason experience and leadership make her a key player as TCU prepares to face Texas.

LSU Tigers: Rising to the Occasion

LSU, the No. 3 seed in the Spokane 1 region, has shown resilience and depth in their journey to the Elite Eight. Key players have stepped up when it mattered most, making them a formidable opponent.

Sa’Myah Smith: The Unsung Hero

Sa’Myah Smith has been a revelation for LSU. Her back-to-back double-doubles have provided a significant boost, especially when other key players struggled.

Smith’s contributions will be vital as LSU faces UCLA in the next round.

USC Trojans: Overcoming Adversity

USC, the No. 1 seed in the Spokane region, has shown incredible resilience, particularly after losing star player JuJu Watkins to injury. The Trojans have leaned on their talented freshmen to secure their spot in the Elite Eight.

Kennedy Smith: Stepping Up

Kennedy Smith delivered a standout performance with 19 points and stellar defense, helping USC overcome the loss of Watkins.

Smith’s ability to rise to the occasion will be crucial as USC prepares to face UConn.

Duke Blue Devils: Defensive Mastery

Duke, the No. 2 seed in the Birmingham 2 region, has relied on their stifling defense to reach the Elite Eight. Their ability to limit opponents’ scoring has been the cornerstone of their success.

Defensive Prowess

Duke’s defense has been nothing short of spectacular. They allow just 38.7 points per game in the tournament. This defensive strength will be put to the test as they face South Carolina.

The Elite Eight matchups are set to be thrilling. Each team brings their unique strengths to the court. Whether it’s UConn’s scoring prowess, UCLA’s dominant big, or Duke’s suffocating defense, fans are in for an exciting conclusion to the 2025 Women’s NCAA Tournament. For a detailed breakdown and rankings of the final eight teams, you can refer to the original article on ESPN.