The UCLA women’s basketball team advanced to the NCAA Final Four for the second consecutive season after defeating Duke 70-58 on Mar. 29 in Sacramento, California. The Bruins overcame an eight-point halftime deficit and used a strong third quarter to secure their victory.
This advancement is significant as it marks continued success for the UCLA program, which has now reached back-to-back Final Fours. The team will next face either Texas or Michigan in Phoenix, Arizona.
Senior Lauren Betts led all scorers with 23 points and became UCLA’s all-time leading shot blocker during the game, finishing with five blocks and ten rebounds. Betts was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player. Graduate student Angela Dugalić contributed 15 points and joined Betts on the Sacramento 2 All-Region Team. Charlisse Leger-Walker recorded a game-high six assists to help guide the Bruins’ offense.
The game saw several momentum shifts. After trailing at halftime for only the second time this season, UCLA rallied in the third quarter by outscoring Duke 20-8. Key plays included timely baskets from Jaquez and Kneepkens, as well as defensive stops by Betts.
Looking ahead, official times for Final Four games will be set following Monday’s Elite Eight matchups. The games are scheduled for April 3 at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, with television assignments to be announced later.
