TAMPA, Fla. (Diya TV) — The University of Connecticut (UConn) Huskies women’s basketball team won its record 12th national title by dominating the University of South Carolina Gamecocks 82-59.
Huskies’ offense was paced by senior guard Azzi Fudd and freshman forward Sarah Strong, each of whom scored 24 points. Strong added 15 rebounds, five assists, and three blocks to become the first UConn freshman to achieve four double-doubles in a single NCAA tournament.
Senior guard Paige Bueckers chipped in 17 points, six rebounds, and three assists to pass Maya Moore for the most career NCAA tournament points by a UConn player with 477. Head coach Geno Auriemma, who won his 12th national championship, was visibly overcome with emotion after the game.
During a postgame interview, he professed great love for Bueckers, saying, “I love you.” Bueckers, whose close relationship with Auriemma is well-documented, replied with a joking, “I hate you,” and their special friendship was evident.
The Huskies’ defense trapped the Gamecocks for 59 points, proving their superior play on both sides of the court. Dawn Staley, the head coach of South Carolina, recognized the performance of UConn, declaring, “They did a masterful job in executing on both sides of the basketball.
This title is UConn’s first since 2016, breaking a nine-year championship drought. The win was especially meaningful for Bueckers, who battled through injuries throughout her college career to reach this milestone. She is expected to be the number one pick in the April 14 WNBA draft. Connecticut fans are waiting with bated breath for news of the championship parade to honor the Huskies’ victory.
