The UConn Huskies, led by head coach Dan Hurley, fell short in the NCAA championship game, losing 63-69 to the Michigan Wolverines, who secured their first national title since 1989. Following the game, South Carolina Gamecocks superfan Plies took to social media to criticize UConn women's coach Geno Auriemma for his behavior during a heated exchange with Gamecocks coach Dawn Staley in the Final Four. Auriemma had previously faced backlash for his actions and later issued an apology, stating, "There's no excuse for how I handled the end of the game." In contrast, Hurley remained composed after the loss, emphasizing that Michigan played better and acknowledging his team's efforts throughout the season. He expressed pride in his players despite the disappointment of not winning a third championship.