UCLA reaches first national championship game

Bruins hold off late Texas rally to advance with 51-44 win

Apr. 4, 2026 at 5:23am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the intense action and emotion of the NCAA women's basketball semifinal game between UCLA and Texas, with overlapping planes of players, baskets, and court lines in a vibrant color palette.The Bruins' gritty defensive effort and ability to withstand Texas' late surge propelled them to a historic first national championship game appearance.Los Angeles Today

The UCLA Bruins women's basketball team defeated the Texas Longhorns 51-44 in the NCAA Tournament semifinal, advancing to the national championship game for the first time in program history. Sophomore center Lauren Betts led the Bruins with 16 points and a crucial late-game block to help secure the victory.

Why it matters

This marks a historic milestone for the UCLA women's basketball program, which has never before reached the national title game. The Bruins' grinding defensive performance and ability to withstand Texas' late comeback attempt showcased their resilience and toughness as they aim to capture the school's first women's basketball national championship.

The details

In a low-scoring affair, UCLA built a double-digit lead in the second half before Texas mounted a furious rally to cut the deficit to just two points in the final minutes. However, Betts' timely block and the Bruins' composure down the stretch allowed them to hold on for the 51-44 victory and punch their ticket to the national championship game.

  • The game was played on Friday, April 4, 2026.

The players

Lauren Betts

A sophomore center for the UCLA Bruins who led the team with 16 points and a crucial late-game block.

UCLA Bruins

The women's basketball team from the University of California, Los Angeles that reached the national championship game for the first time in program history.

Texas Longhorns

The women's basketball team from the University of Texas that fell to UCLA in the NCAA Tournament semifinal.

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What they’re saying

“We've worked so hard to get to this point, and I'm so proud of our team for gutting out this win. We're not done yet.”

— Cori Close, UCLA Head Coach

What’s next

UCLA will face the winner of the other semifinal matchup in the national championship game on Sunday, April 6, 2026.

The takeaway

UCLA's gritty performance and first-ever trip to the national title game represents a major breakthrough for the program, showcasing the Bruins' defensive tenacity and ability to withstand pressure in high-stakes moments.