UCLA Wins First NCAA Women’s Basketball Title with Dominant Victory Over South Carolina

UCLA Wins First NCAA Women’s Basketball Title with Dominant Victory Over South Carolina

April 5, 2026 — In a historic and commanding performance, the UCLA Bruins women's basketball team (37-1) secured their first-ever NCAA women’s basketball national championship, defeating the South Carolina Gamecocks (36-4) by a decisive 79-51 margin.

From the opening tip-off at the Footprint Center, UCLA established control and never looked back. The Bruins led 21-10 after the first quarter and steadily increased their lead, highlighted by a dominant 25-9 third quarter that effectively sealed the win.

Leading UCLA was Gabriela Jaquez, who delivered a standout championship performance with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists. Teammate Lauren Betts overcame a first-half injury scare to return and recorded a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds, earning Final Four Most Outstanding Player honors.

For South Carolina, Tessa Johnson led with 14 points, but the team struggled offensively throughout the game. The Gamecocks shot just 17% in the first quarter, their lowest-scoring opening period of the season, and were held to only 32 points through the first three quarters.

The loss also ended their bid for a fourth national title under head coach Dawn Staley.

This victory marks a milestone for UCLA, as it is their first NCAA-era championship, adding to their 1978 AIAW title. The Bruins also become only the second team from the Big Ten Conference to win the women’s national championship. Their 28-point margin of victory ranks among the most dominant performances in championship game history.

Final Score:

UCLA 79 — South Carolina 51