“UConn Women’s Basketball Returns to Dominance with Final Four Win over USC”

In an intense matchup between the top-seeded USC women’s basketball team and the no. 3 seeded UConn Huskies, UConn emerged victorious with an 80-73 win, securing their spot in the Final Four. This victory marks UConn’s return to dominance after a 30-year absence from the NCAA Elite Eight.

The game started with USC taking an early lead, but UConn quickly picked up their pace and mounted a game-changing 11-0 run in the fourth quarter. Despite their impressive season and their highest national ranking since 1986, USC couldn’t withstand UConn’s relentless offense and had to settle for a loss.

The star of the game was UConn’s Paige Bueckers, who scored 28 points and carried her team to the national semifinals. She outperformed USC’s talented freshman All-American, JuJu Watkins, and sparked a decisive run in the final minutes of the game. Aaliyah Edwards also made significant contributions with 24 points for UConn.

The first half was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams tied at 33-33 at halftime. USC had a strong start, shooting 33 percent from the floor and leading in rebounds. However, UConn heated up in the second half, finishing the game at 48.3 percent shooting and dominating the boards.

Watkins led USC with a game-high 29 points, breaking the national record for single-season scoring by a freshman. Rayah Marshall also had a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds, while McKenzie Forbes scored 24 points for the Trojans.

Despite a late surge from USC, UConn held on to secure the win. USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb praised UConn’s performance, acknowledging that they executed their game plan better.

With this victory, UConn solidifies its legacy as one of the most successful women’s basketball programs, reaching their 23rd national semifinal, the most of any school. They will now move on to the Final Four, one step closer to reclaiming their dynasty dominance.