UCLA’s Close Call in Final Four Semifinal
PHOENIX – What appeared to be a comfortable victory for UCLA turned into a nail-biter.
During Friday night’s women’s Final Four semifinal, Texas was gaining momentum and quickly closed the gap to just one possession behind the Bruins.
UCLA center Lauren Betts dashed back on defense, spotting Longhorns star Madison Booker heading toward the basket at the Mortgage Matchup Center.
Betts positioned herself to face Booker near the basket, extending her arm just as Booker attempted a tricky over-the-shoulder layup.
What unfolded next was crucial for both teams.
The shot was blocked. Game over.
“The moment I saw her driving, I thought, I have to block this, I can’t let her score,” Betts reflected after her team secured a 51-44 win.
Booker was unable to score, and neither could her teammates in the final 20 seconds. After blocking the shot, Betts retrieved the rebound and passed it to Kiki Rice, who sank four free throws that solidified the lead, allowing the Bruins to avenge their only loss this season.
For Booker, it was a frustrating night; the Texas leading scorer finished with just six points, making only 3-of-23 attempts. She mentioned that her shot slipped and she didn’t feel she had a chance.
“That wasn’t the plan. That’s not how we wanted it to go,” Booker admitted. “I literally slipped.”
Even if there are questions about Betts’ block, her overall contribution was clear. The Bruins prepared to face South Carolina in the championship game with her impressive stats—16 points on 7-of-10 shooting, 11 rebounds, and three blocks. According to OptaSTATS, Betts became the first player in a Final Four game since Anthony Davis in 2012 to achieve at least 15 points, 10 rebounds, three blocks, and shoot at least 70 percent from the field.
“I could go on and on about Lauren’s impact,” UCLA guard Gianna Kneepkens said, pausing with a smile, “but I’ll keep it brief. She elevates our offense immensely, especially the guards. You just can’t underestimate her ability. If defenders double team her, she knows how to kick it out.”
“Defensively, she’s a force inside. Honestly, when I go in for layups in practice, I just don’t feel comfortable,” Kneepkens continued. “Having her there changes everything.”
Betts’ performance was even more remarkable after suffering a foul early in the third quarter, hitting the back of her head on the court.
“Honestly, that hurt—a lot,” Betts said with a grin. “But in a moment like this, when the season is on the line, you push through. There was no way I was leaving the court.”
UCLA coach Cori Close highlighted Betts’ agility in blocking Booker’s shot, countering any doubts about the 6-foot-7 player’s mobility.
“Having her guarding effectively really makes a difference. Every time she’s on the court, you can see how she alters plays and intimidates opponents. I just think she’s incredible,” Close stated.
