UCLA Women’s Basketball Prepares for Final Four Clash

PHOENIX – The excitement is palpable as UCLA’s women’s basketball team prepares for another game.

Kiki Rice and Gabriela Jaquez stand out as key players for the program, having positively impacted both the team and the community over the past four years.

This upcoming game also features Lauren Betts, who has openly discussed her mental health journey since transferring from Stanford University.

Angela Dugaric, despite having the talent to start, has chosen to support the team from the bench. Along with the transfers of Charliss Ledger-Walker and Gianna Neepkens, the squad boasts what many consider the greatest team in UCLA’s history. Still, one more game remains in this memorable season.

“I just want to play more games with these girls,” Jaquez shared as the Bruins (35-1) gear up to face Texas (35-3) in the Final Four on Friday night at the Mortgage Matchup Center.

Defeating the Longhorns would open the door for UCLA to compete against UConn or South Carolina in the NCAA championship—perfectly fitting for such a remarkable group.

“In the back of our minds, we all know this is our last shot,” said Betts. “It’s all or nothing for all of us.”

This group, after four Sweet 16 appearances—including two Final Four trips—has created many cherished memories, traveling to places like Paris, the Bahamas, and New York.

“I got to have so many fun experiences,” Jaquez said. “I’ve seen the world with this team.”

Looking ahead, here are five aspects to keep an eye on as the Bruins face off against the Longhorns.

Factors for Rematch

Texas’s only loss this season came against UCLA.

In their previous encounter, the Bruins claimed a 76-65 victory in Las Vegas, with the Longhorns struggling defensively and trailing by significant margins throughout the game.

This time, UCLA players plan to adopt a more aggressive approach.

“I’m ready to dominate,” Jaquez stated about her mindset. “The key is to come out ready, chase every loose ball, and play confidently as a team.”

Ledger-Walker, who faced some challenges in the last game, emphasized the importance of making smart decisions under pressure.

“We’re focused on being aggressive, but that also requires knowing when to pass and when to shoot,” she explained. “It’s about energy on both ends of the court.”

A Breakthrough in Coaching?

Cori Close is on the verge of a significant achievement.

In previous years, her teams have faced setbacks in the Sweet 16 and the Final Four. However, after a year of reflection, she feels better prepared.

Close admitted she struggled to focus during her first Final Four and regretted not celebrating the team’s successes appropriately.

“I got too caught up in roster management and didn’t appreciate what we had accomplished,” she noted. “This time, we’re ready to embrace the moment.”

Notable Matches

The point guard matchup is crucial. Texas’s Lori Harmon caused problems for UCLA in their last meeting with a standout performance.

UCLA is hopeful that starting two point guards will help them counter Harmon, as they aim to limit the Longhorns’ offensive flow. Texas will likely want to replicate their earlier success.

“I’m sure UCLA will make adjustments, but we’ll keep pushing and applying pressure,” Harmon remarked.

Don’t Forget About Her

Texas’s Madison Booker will be under focus again for the Bruins. She’s currently the top scorer for her team and has a chance to become the Longhorns’ all-time leader next season.

UCLA needs to be cautious about sending her to the free throw line, given her impressive shooting percentages.

Prediction

It’s always a challenge for a team to defeat another twice in one season. Yet, UCLA managed to claim victory, winning 77-69, which sent them to their first NCAA Championship Game.