UCLA’s Triumph and Geno Auriemma’s Downfall Highlight Women’s Final Four

The 2026 Women’s Final Four capped off a wild, unforgettable college basketball season. UCLA pulled off a huge win, beating South Carolina in the national title game.

The tournament was packed with standout performances, wild drama, and some big moments for both players and coaches. Let’s dig into some of the highlights and stories that made this Final Four so memorable.

UCLA’s Triumph: A Storybook Finish

UCLA grabbed its first national championship in the NCAA era with a convincing win over South Carolina. Lauren Betts, the Bruins’ center, earned Most Outstanding Player honors at the Final Four, putting up double-doubles in both the semifinal against Texas and the title game.

The Bruins’ senior class really came through—each one hit double digits in the final. Their chemistry and grit? Pretty much impossible to miss.

Key Performances

• Gabriela Jaquez: Dropped a game-high 21 points and snagged 10 rebounds.
• Gianna Kneepkens: Added 15 points.
• Lauren Betts: Finished with 14 points and 11 rebounds.
• Charlisse Leger-Walker and Kiki Rice: Each chipped in 10 points.
• Angela Dugalic: Came off the bench with a valuable 9 points.

The seniors’ determination made all the difference. Kiki Rice summed up the feeling, saying there was no better way to finish their college run.

Cori Close’s First National Championship

After 15 years leading the program, UCLA head coach Cori Close finally got her first national title. She took over in 2011, and until last year, hadn’t even reached the Final Four.

This season, Close pushed the Bruins to the top, shaking off past heartbreaks and guiding her squad to the championship.

Coaching Milestones

Close’s road to the trophy was all about persistence and belief in her team. She insisted that the win was more than just a trophy—it was proof that a different style of coaching and team-building could work.

It’s a big deal for women in coaching, too. Both Close and South Carolina’s Dawn Staley coached their teams to the final, which says something about where the game is headed.

South Carolina’s Dawn Staley: A Competitive Spirit

South Carolina, led by Dawn Staley, didn’t get their fourth national title, but they showed off some serious talent and fight. Freshman Makeer really stood out, averaging 14 points per game in the NCAA Tournament and making it clear she’s one to keep an eye on.

Future Prospects

Makeer put up 14 points against UConn and 11 against UCLA in the Final Four. Whether she sticks with South Carolina or explores other options, she looks ready to become a major name in women’s college hoops.

Geno Auriemma and UConn’s Disappointment

UConn coach Geno Auriemma had a rough Final Four. His team’s perfect season ended in the semifinals against South Carolina.

Auriemma’s frustration boiled over on the sidelines, leading to a heated exchange with Staley. The incident drew plenty of criticism and highlighted just how intense the tournament can get.

Player Struggles

UConn stars Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong had a tough night, combining for just 20 points and shooting 7-for-31. It was one of their worst performances all year.

Strong’s frustration was obvious—she even tore her jersey during the game. That moment kind of summed up how things went for UConn.

Texas’ Missed Opportunity

Texas, with head coach Vic Schaeffer at the helm, made its second straight Final Four but couldn’t reach the title game. The Longhorns just couldn’t get their shots to fall, especially forward Madison Booker, who managed only six points on 3-of-23 shooting.

Looking Ahead

Still, making back-to-back Final Fours shows Texas is building something solid. If they can improve when it matters most, maybe they’ll break through next time.

Women Coaches Leading the Way

This year’s Women’s Final Four put the spotlight on women in coaching. Both teams in the championship were led by women, which really isn’t something you could say not too long ago.

It’s important—for the sport’s future and for the next generation of women who want to coach or play. Honestly, it’s about time.