The stage is set for an electrifying conclusion to the 2025 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament, as the South Carolina Gamecocks prepare to face off against the UConn Huskies in the national championship game on Sunday, April 6, 2025. This highly anticipated matchup will take place at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida, starting at 3 p.m. ET. With both teams emerging victorious in their respective Final Four games, the excitement is palpable as fans eagerly await the crowning of this year's champion.
In the lead-up to the title game, the Gamecocks showcased their prowess by defeating the Texas Longhorns 74-57 in the semifinals. South Carolina's performance was marked by a strong second half, where they pulled away from a close game, demonstrating their resilience and tactical execution. Freshman Joyce Edwards contributed significantly off the bench, recording a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Senior guard Te-Hina Paopao also shone brightly, leading the team with 14 points.
On the other side of the court, the UConn Huskies delivered a commanding performance against the UCLA Bruins, winning 85-51. This victory not only secured their spot in the championship game but also marked the largest margin of victory in Women's Final Four history. UConn's depth was on full display, with Sarah Strong leading the charge with 22 points, while Azzi Fudd added 19 points. Despite star guard Paige Bueckers being held to 16 points, the Huskies' collective effort proved too much for UCLA.
This championship game is a rematch of the 2021-22 title game, where South Carolina triumphed over UConn 64-49, adding to the historical rivalry between these two powerhouse programs. UConn, under the legendary coach Geno Auriemma, is seeking to end a nine-year title drought, having last won the championship in 2016. Auriemma, who is aiming for his 12th national title, expressed pride in his team's performance against UCLA, stating, "I don't think we made a mistake the entire evening, especially on the defensive end. I'm just incredibly proud of these guys and what they were able to do."
As for South Carolina, head coach Dawn Staley is focused on making history by leading her team to back-to-back championships. Staley emphasized the importance of staying focused and not getting overwhelmed by the stakes of the game. "This is why I came back," Paopao said, reflecting the team's determination to repeat as champions. With only one game left, the Gamecocks are ready to battle for their second consecutive national title.
The betting odds reflect the intensity of this matchup, with UConn opening as a 5.5-point favorite, a line that quickly shifted to 6.5 points in favor of the Huskies. According to BetMGM, the moneyline is set at UConn -235 and South Carolina +195, with an over/under of 132.5 points. This indicates that oddsmakers expect a competitive game, though UConn's recent performance and historical success against South Carolina have made them the favorites.
Interestingly, the betting landscape has seen varied opinions among sportsbooks. ESPN BET director of North American sports trading, Adrian Horton, noted that many sportsbooks would prefer a South Carolina win, indicating that the Gamecocks have garnered significant support from bettors. In contrast, BetMGM's sports trader, Hannah Luther, stated, "UConn is our worst result, and we're really hoping they get knocked out," showcasing the differing stakes for various betting establishments.
In their previous encounter on February 16, 2025, UConn handed South Carolina a resounding defeat, winning 87-58. In that game, Azzi Fudd exploded for 28 points, showcasing her scoring ability from beyond the arc. This history adds an intriguing layer to the championship game, as South Carolina will be looking to avenge that loss while UConn aims to repeat their success.
Both teams have demonstrated their capabilities throughout the tournament, with South Carolina overcoming challenges and UConn displaying their dominance. As they prepare for the championship clash, the focus will be on execution, strategy, and the ability to handle the pressure of the moment. This game is not just about the title; it's about legacy, pride, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in women's college basketball.
With the stakes higher than ever, fans can expect a thrilling contest filled with intensity and skill. As the clock counts down to tip-off, both teams are gearing up for what promises to be a memorable showdown. The anticipation is building, and the basketball world will be watching closely to see who emerges victorious in this battle of titans.
