In a historic moment for collegiate athletics, the UCLA Bruins women's basketball team has clinched their first-ever NCAA national championship in the modern era, delivering a commanding performance that saw them triumph over South Carolina. This victory not only marks a significant milestone for the program but also concludes an extraordinary season defined by an impressive winning streak and exceptional teamwork.
UCLA's Dominant Performance Secures National Title in Phoenix
PHOENIX, Arizona – On Sunday afternoon, April 5, 2026, the UCLA Bruins made history at the Mortgage Matchup Center, capturing their first NCAA women's basketball national championship with an overwhelming 79-51 victory against the South Carolina Gamecocks. Forward Gabriela Jaquez was instrumental, leading all scorers with 21 points, while center Lauren Betts recorded her 15th double-double of the season with 14 points and 11 rebounds. Jaquez further contributed with 10 rebounds and five assists, showcasing a truly all-around effort.
The Bruins, concluding their season with an astounding 31-game winning streak and a 37-1 overall record, asserted their dominance from the outset, never trailing in the contest. A crucial turning point came midway through the third quarter when Jaquez's fast-break layup extended UCLA's lead to 48-26. This was quickly followed by a decisive 13-0 run, highlighted by three-pointers from Jaquez and guard Gianna Kneepkens, pushing the score to 61-32 by the end of the third period.
UCLA's formidable defense, anchored by the 6-foot-7 Betts, stifled the Gamecocks' offense, limiting them to a mere 29.0% shooting from the field. The Bruins also controlled the boards, outrebounding South Carolina 49-37. For South Carolina, guard Tessa Johnson led the team with 14 points, while Agot Makeer added 11. Notably, South Carolina's leading scorer, Joyce Edwards, who averaged 19.5 points per game coming into the final, was held to just eight points despite pulling down 11 rebounds. This defensive masterclass echoed UCLA's semifinal win over Texas, where they similarly contained star player Madison Booker to six points.
All five of UCLA's senior starters reached double figures in scoring. Alongside Jaquez and Betts, Kneepkens contributed 15 points, Charlisse Leger-Walker added 10 points, and Kiki Rice chipped in with 10 points, six rebounds, and five assists. This championship marks UCLA's second national title in women's basketball, following their AIAW championship in 1978, prior to the NCAA era which commenced in 1982. The Bruins' journey to the title was marked by their consistent performance, having not trailed in either of their Final Four games, a first for the program. The victory also extended their winning streak against South Carolina to two games, including a significant 77-62 win in November 2024 that snapped the Gamecocks' 43-game winning streak. The triumph served as a redemptive moment for UCLA, who had suffered a blowout loss to eventual champion UConn in the previous season's semifinals.
The Bruins' championship journey is a testament to perseverance, strategic gameplay, and exceptional individual talent converging into a cohesive unit. Their historic victory underscores the dynamic and evolving landscape of women's collegiate basketball, inspiring future generations of athletes and fans alike. It highlights the importance of strong defense, balanced scoring, and unwavering team spirit in achieving the highest levels of success in competitive sports.