UCLA Wins First NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship with 79-51 Victory Over South Carolina

Original: UCLA capture first NCAA women’s basketball title, 79-51 over South Carolina

The Guardian•Apr 6, 20264 min

In a Nutshell

UCLA clinched its first NCAA women's basketball championship by defeating South Carolina 79-51. Gabriela Jaquez led the Bruins with 21 points, while Lauren Betts contributed 16 points and 11 rebounds. This victory marks UCLA's first title since 1978, completing a remarkable season with a record of 37-1.

Key Points

01UCLA's victory marks their first NCAA women's basketball championship since 1978.
02Gabriela Jaquez scored 21 points and had 10 rebounds.
03Lauren Betts was named Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four.
04South Carolina struggled with only 17% shooting in the first quarter.
05UCLA finished the season with an impressive record of 37 wins and 1 loss.

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Full Summary

In a dominating performance, UCLA defeated South Carolina 79-51 to secure their first NCAA women's basketball championship on Sunday. Gabriela Jaquez led the Bruins with 21 points, while Lauren Betts added 16 points and 11 rebounds. UCLA's journey to the title included only one loss this season, which occurred in November against Texas. Coach Cori Close expressed immense pride in her team's character and connectivity, emphasizing that their talent was just the foundation for their success. The Bruins established a strong lead early, outscoring South Carolina by 25-9 in the third quarter, effectively sealing the game. This championship is particularly significant as it is UCLA's first since winning the 1978 AIAW championship, the predecessor to the NCAA tournament. Despite the loss, South Carolina, led by coach Dawn Staley, remains a formidable program, having won the title in 2024 and expected to return strong next season.

Key Figures