Phoenix, April 6: Congratulations to the UCLA Bruins, the champions of the 2026 NCAA women’s basketball tournament. The Bruins triumphed over South Carolina on Sunday, securing a remarkable season record of 37-1. This victory included an undefeated run to the Big Ten regular-season title and their first-ever Big Ten Tournament championship, culminating in a decisive 79-51 win.
This championship marks UCLA’s first title in the NCAA era, although they previously won the AIAW national championship in 1978. The team’s celebrated group of six seniors played a pivotal role in this historic win.
Lauren Betts, despite an early issue with her windpipe, proved crucial to the Bruins’ success. Kiki Rice demonstrated exceptional control throughout the game, while Gabriela Jaquez lived up to her “All Gas Gabs” nickname. Gianna Kneepkens showcased her skills with impressive one-legged fadeaways, and Charlisse Leger-Walker was lethal from beyond the arc. Angela Dugalić made significant contributions off the bench, helping to secure a perfect conclusion to their season.
UCLA Dominates South Carolina
UCLA’s dominance over South Carolina left little room for doubt. Betts’ early absence may have inadvertently benefited the Bruins, as South Carolina struggled to adjust their game plan. Head coach Dawn Staley’s decision to delve deeper into her bench early on indicated that the Gamecocks were thrown off their rhythm. In an interview with ESPN’s Holly Rowe, Staley acknowledged her search for the right combination to energize her team.
Meanwhile, UCLA maintained their momentum without Betts, showcasing strong defensive activity and efficient offense. Their early 11-point lead likely boosted their confidence, and Betts’ return only enhanced their performance.
In the second quarter, South Carolina seemed to regain their footing, ramping up defensive pressure and forcing turnovers. They managed to cut UCLA’s lead from 15 points to 11, but the Bruins quickly responded, ending the half with a 36-23 advantage.
Despite South Carolina’s struggles, shooting just 26 percent from the field in the first half, they hoped to turn the game around in the third quarter. However, UCLA had other plans. By the third quarter’s four-minute mark, the Bruins had extended their lead to 20 points. Although South Carolina attempted a comeback, UCLA’s response was emphatic, pushing their lead past 30 points by the end of the period.
The final quarter showcased UCLA’s excellence, emphasizing their status as the “underdog” champions. South Carolina’s shooting woes continued, finishing the game with a mere 29 percent from the field and only eight percent from three-point range. Tessa Johnson and Agot Makeer were the only players to reach double figures, scoring 14 and 11 points, respectively. Joyce Edwards faced challenges against UCLA’s defense, finishing with eight points and 11 rebounds, while senior backcourt players Raven Johnson and Ta’Niya Latson combined for just seven points.
In contrast, UCLA’s six seniors accounted for all 79 points scored by the team. Jaquez led with 21 points, complemented by 10 rebounds and five assists. Kneepkens added 15 points, while Betts recorded a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds. Leger-Walker and Rice both contributed 10 points, with Rice also grabbing six boards and five assists. Dugalić rounded out the scoring with nine points. Betts, who excelled during the tournament, was named the Most Outstanding Player.
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