The excitement is at its peak as the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament reaches its final stage – the Final Four. After weeks of intense competition, only four teams remain, each eyeing the national championship title.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about the semi-finals, how to watch, and what to expect from these powerhouse matchups.
How to Watch the Women’s Final Four 2025
Date: Friday, April 4
Location: Amalie Arena, Tampa, Florida
TV Channel: ESPN
Tip-off Times:
South Carolina vs. Texas – 7:00 p.m. ET
UCLA vs. UConn – approx. 9:30 p.m. ET (30 minutes after Game 1 ends)
Game 1: South Carolina vs. Texas – Can the Defending Champs Hold On?
South Carolina: A Dynasty in the Making
The South Carolina Gamecocks, led by legendary coach Dawn Staley, are aiming to continue their dominance in women’s college basketball.
Defending champions looking for their third title in four years
Looking to become only the fourth team in history to win back-to-back titles
Past stars like A’ja Wilson, Aliyah Boston, and Kamilla Cardoso now shine in the WNBA
Current players lean on alumni support for mentorship and bonding
“They speak life into us,” said guard Te-Hina Paopao, referring to the valuable advice and emotional support from past players.
Coach Staley, who already has three NCAA titles (2017, 2022, 2024), focuses on building trust and open communication with her players.
“Kids want to be heard. They have something to offer. That’s what builds trust,” she explained.
Texas: Underdogs on a Magical Run
The Texas Longhorns are making just their fourth Final Four appearance, and their first since 2003. Under coach Vic Schaefer, the team has come together through grit, belief, and bonding.
Key Highlights:
Led by forward Madison Booker, who averages 16.5 points per game
Booker is shooting 50% from the field
Texas lost to South Carolina twice this season, including a 64-45 defeat in the SEC championship game
Despite being the underdogs, Coach Schaefer wants his players to savour the moment:
“They need to enjoy this. It’s hard to get here… It is a business trip, but they’re good enough,” he told reporters.
Game 2: UCLA vs. UConn – A Battle of History and Hope
UCLA: First Final Four Appearance
The UCLA Bruins are enjoying a dream run, reaching their first-ever Final Four. Spearheading their charge is Lauren Betts, a 6’7″ centre who has dominated the tournament.
Two 30-point games this tournament
Leads the team in scoring and rebounds
Recorded 19 double-doubles this season
Betts has also been open about her mental health journey, revealing past struggles with bullying due to her height.
“I just don’t feel like I have to hide this anymore,” she said about sharing her story.
Coach Cori Close says her team fully believed they’d make it to this stage:
“We expected and believed that we would be in Tampa. And we’re ready to compete.”
UConn: The Final Four Veterans
The UConn Huskies are no strangers to this stage, making their 24th Final Four appearance. But they haven’t won the title since 2016, and they’re hungry to get back on top.
11-time national champions
Led by Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd
UConn has stronger stats across scoring, defence, three-point shooting, and free throws
Breezed past No. 1 Southern California in the Elite Eight
Bueckers, averaging 30.5 points over her last three games, knows the pressure of representing UConn:
“Anything less than a national championship is a disappointment… but that pressure is a privilege.”
What’s at Stake?
A chance to play in Sunday’s National Championship Final
Cementing legacies for coaches, players, and entire programmes
For South Carolina, a potential back-to-back championship
For UCLA, a historic first title shot
For UConn, a return to glory
For Texas, a chance to defy expectations
Final Thoughts
The 2025 NCAA Women’s Final Four offers a perfect mix of experience, emotion, and history in the making. Whether it’s South Carolina’s ongoing dynasty, Texas’ fearless journey, UCLA’s inspirational rise, or UConn’s championship pedigree, fans are in for a basketball feast.
Sources
NCAA Official Website: ncaa.com
ESPN Coverage: espn.com
Press Interviews from Final Four Media Day (April 3, 2025)