The 2026 NCAA Women’s Final Four tips off tonight in Phoenix, Arizona, and college basketball fans are in for an electrifying evening. For the first time since 2018, all four No. 1 seeds have punched their tickets to the national semifinals, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the most competitive Final Fours in recent memory.
Tonight’s Semifinal Matchups
The action begins at 7:00 PM ET when the undefeated UConn Huskies (38-0) face off against the South Carolina Gamecocks (35-3) in a highly anticipated rematch of last year’s national championship game. UConn dominated that contest 82-59, and the Gamecocks are hungry for revenge.
Following that showdown, UCLA takes on Texas at approximately 9:30 PM ET in the second semifinal. Both games air live on ESPN from the Mortgage Matchup Center.
Key Players to Watch
UConn’s dynamic duo of Sarah Strong (18.6 ppg) and Azzi Fudd (17.5 ppg) have been dominant all tournament long. Fudd, the reigning NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player and projected No. 1 pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, is shooting a blistering 55 percent from three-point range throughout March Madness.
South Carolina counters with Joyce Edwards (19.7 ppg) leading a balanced attack that features five players averaging double figures. Guard Raven Johnson has been instrumental in the Gamecocks’ tournament run, and the team enters this semifinal boasting the highest point differential of any remaining squad.
Why This Final Four Is Historic
Having all four top seeds reach the Final Four is a rare achievement that speaks to the growing depth and talent in women’s college basketball. UConn leads the nation in adjusted defensive efficiency, steals, and points allowed per game, making them the clear favorite at -6.5. However, South Carolina’s firepower and depth make them a dangerous opponent capable of pulling off the upset.
The winners of tonight’s two games will meet in the national championship on Sunday, April 5 at 3:30 PM ET on ABC. Whether you are rooting for a Huskies dynasty or a Gamecocks redemption story, tonight’s games are appointment viewing for any sports fan.
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Which team do you think will cut down the nets on Sunday? Drop your prediction in the comments below!