TAMPA, FL -- The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as the No. 2 South Carolina Gamecocks (35-3, 19-1 SEC) take on the No. 3 UConn Huskies (36-3, 21-0 Big East) in the NCAA Tournament National Championship game. This highly anticipated clash is set to tip off on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at 3 p.m. ET at Amalie Arena, broadcast live on ABC and available for streaming on ESPN+.
Both teams have demonstrated remarkable performance throughout the season, with South Carolina boasting a dominant record of 19-1 against SEC opponents and a solid 16-2 in non-conference play. They have also secured an impressive 32-3 record against teams with winning records. Meanwhile, UConn has been equally impressive, finishing the Big East season undefeated at 21-0 and entering the championship game on a high note after a convincing 85-51 victory over UCLA in the Final Four.
The Gamecocks, led by the experienced coach Dawn Staley, are pursuing their third national championship in four years, having previously claimed titles in 2017 and 2022. This championship opportunity is particularly significant for Staley, who is aiming to add to her legacy as one of the top coaches in women's basketball.
On the other side, UConn's legendary coach Geno Auriemma is seeking his 12th NCAA championship, a feat that would further cement his status as one of the greatest coaches in NCAA history. Auriemma's Huskies have not tasted championship success since 2016, and this game presents a critical chance for star player Paige Bueckers to secure her first national title before transitioning to the WNBA.
The two teams have faced off once this season, with UConn dominating that matchup 87-58 back on February 16, 2025. In that game, Azzi Fudd led the Huskies with 28 points, while Joyce Edwards was the top scorer for South Carolina with 17 points. This rematch adds an extra layer of intrigue as both teams have evolved since their last encounter.
As the championship game approaches, both teams have shown impressive statistics. South Carolina averages 79.7 points per game, significantly outpacing UConn's defensive average of 52.0 points allowed. Conversely, UConn has been a scoring machine, shooting at a remarkable 51.0% from the field this season, far surpassing the 35.3% shooting average of their opponents against South Carolina.
For South Carolina, key players include Joyce Edwards, who is averaging 12.7 points per game, and Chloe Kitts, who has been a standout with 13.3 points and 8.1 rebounds over the last ten games. The Gamecocks will need these players to step up in order to challenge UConn's potent offense.
UConn's roster is equally formidable, with Bueckers leading the charge, scoring an average of 20.0 points per game along with 4.4 rebounds and 4.7 assists. Sarah Strong has also been an essential contributor, averaging 17.2 points, 11 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 2.3 steals over the last ten games. Both teams will rely heavily on their star players to dictate the pace and outcome of the game.
As the game unfolds, the intensity is palpable. UConn has a remarkable record of 30-2 when they manage to turn the ball over less than their opponents, averaging 10.3 turnovers per game. South Carolina, on the other hand, has been effective on both ends of the floor, averaging 76.5 points and 34.2 rebounds per game while shooting 48.5% from the field during their last ten games.
The stakes are high, and the atmosphere in Tampa is electric as fans from both sides gather to cheer for their teams. With both programs boasting rich histories and passionate followings, this championship game is not just about the title; it's about pride, legacy, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
As the clock ticks down to tip-off, the question on everyone's mind is: who will emerge victorious in this battle of titans? Will South Carolina defend their crown, or will UConn reclaim their place atop women's collegiate basketball? The answer awaits as the two teams prepare to clash for the national championship.
