UCLA Women's Basketball Rallies for Final Four Berth

Bruins overcome early struggles to defeat Duke and advance to NCAA tournament's semifinals

Mar. 30, 2026 at 11:58am

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring dynamic, colorful brushstrokes and abstracted figures in motion, capturing the energy and emotion of the UCLA women's basketball team's victory over Duke.The UCLA Bruins' thrilling comeback win over Duke secures the team's first Final Four berth since 2018, showcasing their resilience and determination.Today in Sacramento

The UCLA women's basketball team overcame a slow start to defeat Duke 72-65 in the NCAA tournament's Elite Eight on Sunday. The Bruins rallied from an early deficit, finding a way to win despite technical difficulties with the national anthem before the game.

Why it matters

UCLA's victory secures the team's first Final Four appearance since 2018, continuing the program's strong run under head coach Cori Close. The Bruins' comeback win also showcases their resilience and ability to adjust mid-game, traits that will be crucial as they advance deeper into the NCAA tournament.

The details

After falling behind early, UCLA stormed back in the second half, outscoring Duke 44-31 over the final two quarters to clinch the victory. The Bruins were led by senior guard Charisma Osborne, who scored a team-high 22 points.

  • The national anthem singer's microphone cut out shortly before tipoff.
  • UCLA trailed Duke for much of the first half before rallying in the second half.
  • The Bruins defeated Duke by a final score of 72-65 on Sunday, March 30, 2026.

The players

Cori Close

The head coach of the UCLA women's basketball team, guiding the Bruins to their first Final Four appearance since 2018.

Charisma Osborne

A senior guard for UCLA who scored a team-high 22 points in the Bruins' victory over Duke.

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What they’re saying

“We knew the first half wasn't a good representation of how we want to play basketball.”

— Cori Close, Head Coach, UCLA Women's Basketball

What’s next

UCLA will face the winner of the South Carolina-Maryland Elite Eight matchup in the Final Four on April 4, 2026.

The takeaway

UCLA's resilient comeback victory over Duke showcases the Bruins' ability to adjust and overcome adversity, traits that will serve them well as they advance to the Final Four and pursue a national championship.