The 2025 NCAA women’s basketball tournament culminates today with the highly anticipated National Championship game, featuring the No. 2-ranked UConn Huskies squaring off against the top-seeded South Carolina Gamecocks. This showdown will tip off at 3 p.m. ET at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida, with both teams eager to claim the coveted title. Fans can catch all the action live on ABC, as well as through various streaming options including ESPN.
As the game approaches, excitement is palpable. The Gamecocks, led by head coach Dawn Staley, are defending their title after winning last year’s championship against Iowa. South Carolina has been a dominant force in women’s college basketball, clinching three championships in the last four years. This year’s squad boasts talented players such as Te-Hina Paopao, Chloe Kitts, and freshman standout Joyce Edwards, who have all contributed significantly to their success.
On the other side of the court, the UConn Huskies, under the legendary guidance of coach Geno Auriemma, are aiming for their 12th national title. This championship marks UConn's 13th appearance in the finals, with their only loss in this round coming against the Gamecocks in 2022. The Huskies are powered by star players Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd, and Sarah Strong, who have been instrumental in leading the team to this pivotal moment in the tournament.
BetMGM has placed UConn as the favorites in the matchup, offering a -5.5-point spread, while ESPN’s Matchup Predictor gives the Huskies a 57.1% chance of victory. This analysis reflects not only UConn's storied history but also their current form as they enter the championship game.
The matchup is not just about the teams; it also carries significant implications for both coaches. Auriemma is looking to solidify his legacy further with another title, while Staley aims to continue building on her already impressive resume with South Carolina. The stakes are high, and both coaches understand the weight of this moment.
As fans gear up for the game, the atmosphere in Tampa is electric. The city is no stranger to hosting significant sporting events, having seen numerous championships across various sports. Tampa has earned the nickname "Champa Bay" due to its rich history of athletic success, including five Super Bowl victories, three Stanley Cups, and several college national championships since 1984.
This year's Women’s NCAA Championship adds to that legacy, taking place at the same venue where the Quinnipiac men's hockey team won their first-ever national title just last year. The Amalie Arena has become a hub for significant sporting events, and today it will once again be the center of attention.
In addition to the thrilling game, fans in Tampa are treated to a vibrant atmosphere, highlighted by events such as the AT&T Super Saturday concert featuring hip-hop star GloRilla, which took place at Curtis Hixon Park on April 5. This concert not only entertained but also set the stage for the championship game, bringing together sports and music in a celebration of culture.
As the clock ticks down to tip-off, all eyes will be on the court as UConn and South Carolina clash for the national championship. With both teams boasting impressive records and star-studded lineups, the game promises to be a thrilling encounter. Fans are eager to see if the Gamecocks can defend their title or if the Huskies will reclaim their place at the top of women’s college basketball.
No matter the outcome, this championship game will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the players, coaches, and fans alike. It’s a moment that encapsulates the spirit of March Madness, where anything can happen, and legends are made.
