The 2025 Women’s National Championship game between the UConn Huskies and the South Carolina Gamecocks was a battle for the ages. The two powerhouse programs faced off for the ultimate prize in women’s college basketball, and the action was nothing short of breathtaking. As the game unfolded, fans were treated to an unforgettable display of skill, strategy, and sheer determination. Here’s a look back at the extended highlights from a championship clash that captivated basketball enthusiasts across the globe.

First Half: A High-Stakes Showdown

From the opening tip, it was clear this was going to be a tightly contested affair. South Carolina, led by the dominant Aliyah Boston, came out with an aggressive defensive strategy, aiming to disrupt UConn’s high-powered offense. But the Huskies, with their signature up-tempo play and ball movement, countered with poise. The first half was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading baskets and executing their game plans to near perfection.

UConn’s Paige Bueckers, returning to full form after a few injury-riddled seasons, was the standout performer early on. She displayed her trademark skill, hitting deep three-pointers, pulling up for mid-range jumpers, and dishing out assists to her teammates. Her leadership on the floor was evident, and she was instrumental in keeping UConn within striking distance as South Carolina looked to build momentum.

On the other side, Boston was a force to be reckoned with. The South Carolina center dominated the paint, scoring efficiently around the basket and grabbing crucial rebounds. Her presence on both ends of the floor was overwhelming for the Huskies, an it was clear that UConn would have to find a way to neutralize her if they wanted to win the game.

South Carolina’s backcourt, led by Zia Cooke, also played a pivotal role. Cooke’s speed and scoring ability helped the Gamecocks keep pace with UConn, but the Huskies’ defense was able to stifle many of South Carolina’s offensive sets as the first half drew to a close. At halftime, the score was neck-and-neck, with both teams locked in a fierce battle for the championship.

Second Half: Tensions Rise as Both Teams Battle for Supremacy

The second half saw both teams intensifying their efforts, and the stakes couldn’t have been higher. UConn came out with a renewed sense of urgency, and their sharpshooting from beyond the arc started to find its rhythm. Bueckers continued to shine, hitting clutch threes and making key plays in transition. She was joined by teammates such as Azzi Fudd, whose scoring runs helped push the Huskies ahead in the third quarter.

South Carolina didn’t back down, however. Head coach Dawn Staley’s team remained disciplined and aggressive, playing tenacious defense while looking to exploit UConn’s weaknesses in the paint. Boston continued to dominate inside, but it was the perimeter shooting of Cooke and the contributions of LeLe Grissett that kept the Gamecocks in the game.

As the game entered its final minutes, both teams were locked in a fierce battle for the title. UConn had a slight lead, but South Carolina wasn’t ready to let go of their championship aspirations. With under two minutes to play, the Gamecocks were within striking distance, and the tension in the arena was palpable.

The Final Moments: A Dramatic Conclusion

With just seconds remaining on the clock, the game was still in the balance. UConn held a slim lead, and South Carolina had one last chance to either tie or take the lead. In a dramatic sequence, South Carolina’s Zia Cooke drove hard to the basket but was met with tough defense from UConn’s defenders. As Cooke passed the ball to a wide-open Boston in the paint, it seemed like a game-winning opportunity was in the making.

However, UConn’s defense, led by Bueckers, managed to collapse on Boston just in time, forcing her to take a contested shot that rimmed out. The rebound was quickly secured by UConn, and after a couple of free throws, the Huskies secured the victory. The final buzzer sounded, and UConn had clinched their 13th Women’s National Championship title, triumphing 74-70 over a determined South Carolina team.

Key Players and Game Highlights

Paige Bueckers (UConn): Bueckers finished with a game-high 28 points, several assists, and key steals. Her leadership was instrumental in securing the win, and her clutch shooting down the stretch was the difference-maker for UConn.

Aliyah Boston (South Carolina): Boston was a monster on both ends of the floor, contributing 22 points and 15 rebounds. She gave South Carolina every chance to win, but ultimately the Gamecocks couldn’t overcome UConn’s defensive intensity in the final moments.

Zia Cooke (South Carolina): Cooke was explosive throughout the game, scoring 18 points and contributing several assists. However, she struggled to close the game in the final minutes, with UConn’s defense proving too much to handle.

Azzi Fudd (UConn): Fudd provided crucial scoring in the second half, finishing with 15 points and playing an important role in UConn’s offensive flow.

What This Win Means for UConn

This victory solidified UConn’s place as one of the most successful programs in women’s basketball history. Head coach Geno Auriemma’s ability to lead the Huskies to yet another championship is a testament to his coaching prowess and the program’s sustained excellence. With a mix of experienced players and up-and-coming stars, UConn continues to dominate the landscape of women’s college basketball.

For Bueckers, this win was a redemption story, as her return from injury and clutch play in the final moments proved her status as one of the best players in the country. This victory is also a major stepping stone for her as she looks ahead to a future in professional basketball.

Looking Forward

As the 2025 Women’s National Championship fades into history, both UConn and South Carolina are set to continue their dominance in the women’s game. UConn will likely remain a contender in years to come, while South Carolina, with the leadership of coach Dawn Staley, will certainly be back to challenge for another title. The rivalry between these two programs is poised to become one of the most exciting storylines in women’s college basketball for years to come.

The 2025 Women’s National Championship will be remembered for its high-level basketball, incredible individual performances, and intense drama. Both teams gave it their all, but in the end, UConn’s experience and poise under pressure led them to another title, cementing their legacy as one of the most dominant programs in NCAA history.