Final Four Countdown: Who Wins? UConn, South Carolina, Texas, or UCLA?

The Stage is Set

For the second consecutive season, we find ourselves at the thrilling crescendo of college basketball, with UConn, UCLA, Texas, and South Carolina battling for the national title. All four teams enter the Final Four as No. 1 seeds—an impressive feat marking the fifth time that the top seeds have reached this stage since the tournament expanded to 64 teams.

But what really sets this year apart isn't just the familiar names; it's the players transformed by the ever-evolving landscape of college sports driven by the transfer portal. Each team will showcase a blend of established talent and new recruits ready to leave their mark on the grand stage in Phoenix.

UConn vs. South Carolina: A Thrilling Rematch

This match-up is a rematch of the 2025 national championship, where UConn showcased their might, thoroughly outclassing South Carolina. The Gamecocks, now with only one returning starter, have bolstered their squad with key additions like the national's leading scorer, Ta'Niya Latson, and a more versatile lineup. Despite changes, they'll face an uphill battle, as UConn remains undefeated since February 6, 2025.

"UConn may very well be the most disciplined and deep team in collegiate basketball today."

The Huskies have a reputation built on rigorous defense that begins far from their basket. This season, they've managed to force turnovers on an astounding 29.3 percent of opposing possessions, and they lead the nation in points scored off turnovers. Their ability to restrict opponents to the lowest shooting percentage in the country (33.4%) further cements their standing as formidable contenders.

Meanwhile, South Carolina has excelled in limiting their turnovers, but a critical lapse during the SEC championship game against Texas serves as a stark reminder of their vulnerabilities. As they prepare to face UConn, maintaining composure will be essential; mistakes against such a disciplined team could prove disastrous.

One area where South Carolina could exploit UConn is behind the three-point line. UConn has shown a tendency to concede a high volume of threes, and with confident shooters like Tessa Johnson stepping up, there exists a potential for disruption. It's a classic tactical battle at play: can South Carolina's perimeter proficiency break through UConn's strong defensive schemes?

As this pivotal encounter approaches, we can't overlook the direct contests between the stars on both sides. Battling it out are Sarah Strong and Joyce Edwards, both incredibly talented but often held in check by their opposing defense. UConn's Azzi Fudd, reigning Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four, continues to be a critical player to watch, even if she hasn't hit her peak yet this tournament.

Prediction: UConn 79, South Carolina 68

UCLA vs. Texas: Styles Clash

In the other semi-final, we have a compelling clash between Texas and UCLA. Interestingly, Texas is the only team to hand UCLA a defeat this season. Their previous match-up, a wake-up call for the Bruins, resulted in a stunning 20-point deficit at halftime. Since then, UCLA has reshaped their game, rolling through the Big Ten and securing a flawless record to this point.

"This match isn't just about skill; it's about extracting lessons from past encounters to claim victory this time around."

Nevertheless, I'll be watching for how UCLA copes with Texas' pressure. In their earlier match, Texas forced 10 first-half turnovers, demonstrating how effective their full-court press can be. For UCLA to thrive, they will need to find ways to break that pressing defense—it's a chess game, and every piece must move correctly to avoid disaster.

Field goal attempts could also play a crucial role in this contest. UCLA possesses the nation's top offense, converting at an impressive 51.3 percent, but they have observed only a marginal increase in their field-goal attempts per game compared to Texas. If these two teams can keep their shooting avenues equal, I believe it plays strongly into UCLA's hands, but they must first extinguish the Longhorns' offensive rebounding prowess.

Key players to watch include Texas' Rori Harmon and UCLA's Kiki Rice and Charlisse Leger-Walker. The careers of these veteran point guards will hinge on the ability to dominate their match-ups—whoever takes control may very well steer their team towards victory.

Prediction: Texas 74, UCLA 66

As we gear up for this thrilling set of matchups, the vibrancy of college basketball is on full display. Each team represents not only a city or a school; they embody the passions and dreams of countless fans. I can't wait to see how this Final Four unfolds!

This article originally appeared in The Athletic.

Teams: UCLA Bruins, South Carolina Gamecocks, Connecticut Huskies, Texas Longhorns, Women's College Basketball, women's sports