Alicia Tournebize and South Carolina Dominated by UCLA in the NCAA Women’s Tournament Final

UCLA made history with a dominant 79-51 victory over South Carolina, claiming the first NCAA women’s basketball title in program history. This win caps an exceptional season for the Bruins, who were playing in their first final since the NCAA officially adopted women’s basketball in 1982. For the Gamecocks, French player Alicia Tournebize (6’4″, 18 years old) contributed 6 rebounds in 15 minutes but scored 0 points, reflecting a game in which her team struggled offensively.

Total Bruins Domination from the Opening Tip

Cori Close’s team showed no signs of nerves under the pressure of the final, quickly taking control of the game. UCLA built a 30-15 lead at the midpoint of the second quarter, then extended it to 36-23 at halftime. « I have so much confidence in their character, and that’s what determined the way they played today, » said head coach Cori Close on ESPN after the victory.

South Carolina, no stranger to big moments with five finals played since 2017, completely misfired out of the gate. The Gamecocks made just three of their first 18 shots, with only Tessa Johnson finding her rhythm (4/6). Her four starting teammates combined for a dismal 4/19 from the field in the first half.

Gabriela Jaquez and Lauren Betts Lead UCLA to Glory

The second half only amplified UCLA’s dominance. The Bruins led 44-25 just three minutes into the second period before pushing their advantage to 33 points. Gabriela Jaquez, playing in front of her brother Jaime Jaquez Jr. (Miami Heat), delivered a remarkable performance with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists. Her night ended with a late three-pointer celebrated with a victory cry before she made her final exit.

Lauren Betts, despite breathing difficulties in the first half, bounced back to finish with 14 points and 11 rebounds. The center was named the NCAA Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player. « We’ve been preparing for this since September 25th. That was our first practice, » Jaquez shared on ESPN after the game. « For a long time, we set this as our goal. I am so, so proud. What a beautiful way to finish. »

This loss marks South Carolina’s second consecutive NCAA Final defeat, following an 82-59 loss to Connecticut last year. For UCLA and Cori Close, it is the culmination of 15 years of work since the coach’s arrival in 2011.