UConn Leads South Carolina at Halftime of NCAA Women's Semifinal

Huskies hold 26-24 advantage despite Gamecocks' rebounding edge

Apr. 4, 2026 at 12:07am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and competitive energy of a women's basketball game, with sharp planes of navy, red, and white intersecting to create an abstract, multi-dimensional visual.The intense rivalry and high-stakes matchup between UConn and South Carolina is captured in a cubist-inspired illustration that deconstructs the action on the court.Phoenix Today

In a rematch of last year's national championship, UConn holds a 26-24 lead over South Carolina at halftime of the NCAA women's basketball semifinal in Phoenix. The Huskies are led by 8 points each from Sarah Strong and Ashlynn Shade, while South Carolina's Tessa Johnson, Ta'Niya Latson, and Joyce Edwards have 6 points apiece. The Gamecocks are dominating the boards with a 24-16 rebounding advantage, but UConn has forced 9 turnovers.

Why it matters

This is a highly anticipated rematch of last year's national title game, won convincingly by UConn. Both teams are perennial powerhouses in women's college basketball, making this a must-watch semifinal matchup with a trip to the championship game on the line.

The details

UConn built an early 16-11 lead, but South Carolina responded with an 11-1 run to go up 21-16 in the second quarter. The Huskies then closed the half on a 10-3 spurt to take a 26-24 advantage into the locker room. Azzi Fudd, UConn's leading scorer, has struggled so far, shooting just 1-for-6 from the field and 0-for-4 from 3-point range for 2 points.

  • The game is being played on April 3, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona.

The players

UConn Huskies

A perennial powerhouse in women's college basketball, making their 25th Final Four appearance and seeking their 13th national championship.

South Carolina Gamecocks

Also a dominant force in women's college hoops, making their 6th straight Final Four and 8th overall.

Sarah Strong

A UConn player leading the Huskies with 8 points so far.

Ashlynn Shade

Another UConn player scoring 8 points in the first half.

Azzi Fudd

UConn's leading scorer who has struggled so far, shooting 1-for-6 with just 2 points.

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What’s next

The winner of this semifinal matchup will advance to the NCAA women's basketball national championship game on April 5th.

The takeaway

This close, back-and-forth battle between two of the top women's basketball programs in the country is living up to the hype, setting the stage for an exciting second half and potential championship game rematch.