PHOENIX — The UCLA Bruins women’s basketball didn’t just win a championship they made a statement. Behind a suffocating defensive performance, UCLA overwhelmed the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball 79-51 on Sunday to capture the program’s first NCAA title.
UCLA entered the Final Four as the nation’s top offense. They left as a defensive juggernaut. After stifling Texas in the semifinal, the Bruins turned in an even more dominant showing on the biggest stage, holding South Carolina to just 29% shooting and 13% from three-point range.
The Gamecocks led by head coach Dawn Staley never found rhythm, starting the game 1-for-9 and finishing the first quarter just 3-of-18.
Lauren Betts Anchors the Title Run
All-American Lauren Betts once again proved to be the centerpiece of UCLA’s dominance. Despite an early scare that required her to briefly leave the court and use an inhaler, Betts returned and controlled the paint:
- 14 points
- 10 rebounds
- 3 blocks
- 6-of-10 shooting
Her presence inside forced South Carolina into tough shots while opening opportunities for UCLA’s perimeter attack. Betts was named Most Outstanding Player of the tournament.
“I do it for my teammates,” she said. “It’s not to get points, it’s to create.”
Jaquez Leads the Offense
While Betts controlled the interior, Gabriela Jaquez led all scorers with a standout performance:
- 21 points
- 10 rebounds
- Efficient shooting throughout
UCLA shot 42% from three (8-of-19), capitalizing on the attention drawn by Betts inside.
Game Decided in the Third Quarter
If there was any doubt, it vanished after halftime.
UCLA delivered a historic third quarter:
- Outscored South Carolina 25-9
- Built a commanding 61-30 lead
- Largest margin in a single quarter in NCAA championship history
From that point on, the outcome was never in question.
Historic Moment for Cori Close
The title marks a defining achievement for head coach Cori Close in her 15th season. “It’s beyond my wildest dreams,” Close said. “It’s meaningful because of the people I’ve gotten to share it with.”
It is UCLA’s first NCAA championship (post-1982 era) and second overall national title, adding to its 1978 AIAW crown.
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