usf According to UCONNresearch produced by Action Network, it is projected that the bid for a perfect March Madness bracket is set to cost the United States a staggering $5.318,222,550
The NCAA Women’s Final Four is set, and it features a familiar cast. UConn, UCLA, Texas, and South Carolina have once again secured all four No. 1 seeds and advanced to the sport’s biggest stage. For the second straight year, the same quartet will battle for the national title, reinforcing their dominance over the college basketball landscape.
These teams opened the season ranked in the top four of the AP Top 25 and never relinquished their positions. Their return to the Final Four marks only the second time in NCAA history that the same four programs have reached back‑to‑back Final Fours.
A Rare and Powerful Repeat
This is just the fifth time in tournament history that all four No. 1 seeds have reached the Final Four. Even more impressive, each team stormed through the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight with a combined margin of more than 30 points. Their consistency and dominance have elevated the tournament, proving that elite play can be just as compelling as Cinderella runs.
Texas coach Vic Schaefer called the group “elite” and said he was honored to be part of such a powerful field. His Longhorns enter Phoenix with wins over both South Carolina and UCLA this season, making them one of the few teams capable of challenging the giants.
UConn’s Depth and Dominance
UConn enters the Final Four undefeated, even after losing Paige Bueckers to the WNBA draft. Sophomore Sarah Strong emerged as the best player in the country, while Azzi Fudd continues to anchor the offense. The Huskies are deeper and more balanced than last year’s title‑winning squad.
UCLA’s Big Ten Breakthrough
UCLA rolled through Big Ten play undefeated and collected 19 Quad 1 wins. The Bruins crushed Iowa by 54 points in the conference championship and feature five starters projected as first‑round WNBA picks. After being overwhelmed by the moment last year, UCLA arrives in Phoenix with experience and purpose.
Texas on a Mission
Texas became the first team since 2008 to enter the tournament with 14 or more wins over ranked opponents. Led by Rori Harmon in her final season, the Longhorns have embraced a mission‑driven mentality. Their resume includes two wins over South Carolina, making them a legitimate threat to the title.
South Carolina’s Sixth Straight Final Four
South Carolina continues its remarkable run with a sixth consecutive Final Four appearance. Despite offseason injuries and roster turnover, the Gamecocks improved their offensive output by more than six points per game. Taniya Latson, Joyce Edwards and Raven Johnson have developed strong chemistry, giving South Carolina another shot at the crown.
A Tournament Where Teams Are the Stars
While recent years have been defined by individual superstars, this Final Four is all about the teams. UConn, UCLA, Texas and South Carolina have built depth, chemistry and staying power. In an era shaped by the transfer portal and NIL, their sustained excellence is a rare gift for the sport.
Women’s March Madness thrives when the best teams collide, and this year’s Final Four delivers exactly that.
