UConn’s Resurgence and South Carolina’s Streak Define 2024–25 Women’s College Basketball Season

The 2024–25 NCAA Division I women’s basketball season showcased a compelling narrative of dominance, resilience, and the resurgence of a storied program.  UConn’s emphatic return to the pinnacle of the sport, culminating in a record 12th national championship, contrasted with South Carolina’s continued excellence, setting the stage for a memorable season.


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Season Recap: UConn’s Return to Glory and South Carolina’s Consistency

UConn entered the season with high expectations, bolstered by the return of star guard Paige Bueckers and the addition of top recruit Sarah Strong.  The Huskies navigated a challenging schedule, finishing with a 37–3 record and securing the Big East regular-season and tournament titles.  Bueckers led the team with averages of 19.9 points, 4.6 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game, while Strong contributed 24 points and 15 rebounds in the national championship game  .

South Carolina, under the leadership of coach Dawn Staley, continued their dominant run, finishing the regular season undefeated and capturing the SEC tournament title.  The Gamecocks advanced to their second consecutive national championship game, showcasing a balanced attack and stifling defense throughout the season  .


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Final Four Breakdown: UConn’s Dominance and South Carolina’s Journey

UConn 85, UCLA 51

In the national semifinals, UConn delivered a commanding performance against top-seeded UCLA.  Freshman Sarah Strong led the Huskies with 22 points, while Azzi Fudd added 19 points in the first half.  Paige Bueckers contributed 16 points, propelling UConn to their first national championship game since 2022  .

South Carolina 74, Texas 57

South Carolina secured their spot in the championship game with a 74–57 victory over Texas.  The Gamecocks’ balanced scoring and defensive prowess proved too much for the Longhorns, as they advanced to their second consecutive title game  .

Championship Game: UConn 82, South Carolina 59

UConn captured their record 12th NCAA women’s basketball championship with a decisive 82–59 victory over South Carolina.  Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong each scored 24 points, with Strong adding 15 rebounds.  Paige Bueckers contributed 17 points, six rebounds, and three assists.  The Huskies’ dominant performance marked their first national title since 2016 and solidified their status as the most successful program in NCAA basketball history  .


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The 2024–25 season will be remembered for UConn’s return to dominance and South Carolina’s continued excellence.  As programs across the country prepare for the upcoming season, the narratives of resilience, strategic prowess, and emerging talent continue to define the landscape of women’s college basketball.