Balanced Scoring, Fourth-Quarter Surge Deliver Historic 30th Win Before Sellout Crowd BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Buffalo Bulls capped off a record-setting season with a thrilling 88-84 comeback win over the Troy Trojans on Saturday night at Alumni Arena, claiming their first WNIT championship in program history. In front of a sold-out crowd of 5,650 fans, the Bulls overcame a double-digit halftime deficit and put together a dominant fourth-quarter performance to finish the season 30-7. Led by Chellia Watson’s 23 points, Buffalo placed five players in double figures and erased a 14-point second-quarter deficit to storm past a Troy team that shot 50% from the field and had six players reach double figures. First Half: Troy Starts Strong Troy opened the game with energy and precision, responding to an early 6-0 Buffalo run with a 14-4 burst to take control midway through the first quarter. Balanced interior scoring and efficient passing helped the Trojans build a 44-34 lead at halftime. Ashley Baez and Brianna Jackson were catalysts in the second quarter, each converting key baskets to extend the lead. Troy's offense flowed smoothly through its guard play, while forward Zay Dyer imposed her presence inside with strong rebounding and scoring. The Trojans capitalized on second-chance opportunities and used a 26-19 second-quarter advantage to extend their cushion. Third Quarter: Buffalo Closes the Gap Facing a 10-point deficit entering the second half, Buffalo turned to its defense and transition play to claw back. The Bulls outscored Troy 27-20 in the third quarter, using ball pressure and a renewed offensive rhythm to shift momentum. Kirsten Lewis-Williams began to heat up, finding driving lanes and hitting timely jumpers. Lani Cornfield orchestrated the offense with pinpoint passing, while Terah Harness came off the bench and caught fire from beyond the arc. Buffalo briefly tied the game late in the quarter before heading into the fourth trailing just 64-61. The Bulls’ ability to limit turnovers and execute their offense at a higher pace began to wear down Troy’s rotation. A crucial 8-0 run late in the third helped Buffalo set the stage for its final push. Fourth Quarter: Bulls Take Over Buffalo’s fourth quarter was its best of the night. The Bulls scored 27 points in the final 10 minutes, sparked by an early triple from Harness to tie the game at 64. A series of layups and transition buckets allowed Buffalo to reclaim the lead for the first time since the opening minutes. After Troy regained a narrow lead on free throws from Jackson, Buffalo surged ahead on a deep three from Harness and a clutch steal-and-score by Jordyn Beaty that pushed the lead to four. Watson and Lewis-Williams kept the pressure on, combining for multiple key buckets to keep the Trojans at bay. In the final minute, Buffalo closed the game from the free throw line. Beaty and Lewis-Williams each hit from the stripe, and Lewis-Williams sealed the game with a final steal and free throw with just five seconds left. Key Performers and Team Stats  Chellia Watson led all scorers with 23 points, adding seven rebounds and six assists. Lewis-Williams delivered a dynamic performance with 18 points, six rebounds, and five assists. Harness provided a spark with 17 points off the bench, hitting four three-pointers, including the go-ahead shot late in the fourth quarter. Cornfield recorded a double-double with 15 points and 11 assists, while Beaty added 13 points on 6-of-7 shooting and delivered a game-defining defensive play in the final two minutes. Buffalo assisted on 25 of 25 made field goals, showcasing elite ball movement and offensive cohesion. They committed just 10 turnovers and outscored Troy 24-13 in transition. Defensively, they forced 16 Trojan turnovers and converted them into timely points. Troy’s Effort Falls Just Short Troy (24-14) put forth a strong offensive performance but couldn't hold off Buffalo’s fourth-quarter surge. Zay Dyer led the Trojans with 15 points and 17 rebounds, earning her 18th double-double of the season. Briana Peguero and Emani Jenkins each added double-digit scoring, and Jenkins set a WNIT record for most free throws in a tournament with her final three makes. Despite shooting 50% from the field and winning the rebounding battle 40-36, Troy couldn't stop Buffalo’s perimeter threats in the final quarter. Championship Milestone Buffalo’s 30th win of the season set a new program record, capping off an unforgettable campaign. The Bulls won five consecutive postseason games—the most in program history—and went 18-2 at home, including two wins over Troy in the same season. The WNIT title marks the most significant postseason achievement for the Bulls’ women’s basketball program to date and lays the foundation for continued national prominence.

Huskies Dominate From Start to Finish, Ending Nine-Year Title Drought in Tampa  TAMPA, Fla. — The University of Connecticut reclaimed its spot atop women’s college basketball on Sunday afternoon with a commanding 82-59 victory over defending champion South Carolina to secure the program’s 12th national title. Behind an unstoppable trio of Azzi Fudd, Paige Bueckers, and freshman sensation Sarah Strong, the Huskies capped a dominant tournament run by handing the Gamecocks their first loss in a national title game since 2022. This win marked UConn’s first championship since 2016 and their largest margin of victory in a title game since 2013. It also solidified Geno Auriemma’s legendary status with his 12th championship — the most in NCAA women’s basketball history. First Half: Huskies Set the Tone Early UConn wasted no time asserting itself, controlling the pace in the opening quarter and ending it with a 19-14 lead. Shooting 52.9% from the field in the first 10 minutes, the Huskies displayed offensive fluidity and poise. While South Carolina opened the game with a Te-Hina Paopao three-pointer, the Gamecocks were held to 40% shooting in the period and trailed heading into the second quarter. Freshman Sarah Strong set the tone defensively with an emphatic block at the 9:04 mark of the second quarter, further establishing UConn's control. Strong’s early dominance continued as she pulled down rebounds and facilitated from the high post. Midway through the second quarter, South Carolina pulled within three points on an 8-2 run. But UConn responded with sharp perimeter shooting and consistent inside finishes to take a 36-26 lead into halftime. Fudd led all scorers at the break with 13 points, while Strong contributed eight points and 11 rebounds. Bueckers added steady scoring and playmaking to help the Huskies maintain control. Second Half: UConn Pulls Away If the first half was a display of efficiency, the third quarter was a masterclass in dominance. UConn scored 26 points in the period, 23 of which came from Fudd, Strong, and Bueckers. South Carolina simply couldn’t match the Huskies’ execution, as UConn closed the quarter on a 12-3 run to push the lead to 62-42. Strong’s presence on both ends of the floor was critical. She finished the night with 24 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two blocks. Her performance capped off a record-setting NCAA Tournament, where she totaled 114 points—the most by any freshman in tournament history. Fudd, named the Final Four’s Most Outstanding Player, matched Strong’s 24 points, connecting on deep threes and punishing defenders off the dribble. Bueckers, in her final collegiate game, contributed 17 points and was instrumental in running the offense. By the time Auriemma subbed out the starting lineup with 1:32 remaining, the championship was already well in hand. The final buzzer signaled UConn’s return to glory and brought their season record to 37-3. South Carolina’s Struggles South Carolina entered the title game seeking its third national championship in four years but couldn’t overcome UConn’s speed, rebounding, and perimeter firepower. The Gamecocks were outscored in every quarter and finished the game shooting just 38.1% from the field. No South Carolina player reached double figures until late in the game. Joyce Edwards and Tessa Johnson led the Gamecocks with 10 points each, while MiLaysia Fulwiley added nine points and four assists. South Carolina was also outrebounded 40-31 and gave up 44 points in the paint. Despite the loss, South Carolina completed the season with a 35-4 record and their fourth championship game appearance in the last 10 NCAA tournaments. The 2021 recruiting class—led by Bree Hall and Sania Feagin—finished their careers with a 144-7 record and a legacy of consistent Final Four appearances. Records and Recognition UConn’s 23-point win tied for the third-largest margin in women’s NCAA championship game history. The Huskies have now defeated three No. 1 seeds — USC, UCLA, and South Carolina — on their path to the title, a feat unmatched in recent tournament memory. The Huskies are now 91-2 when leading by double digits at halftime in NCAA tournament play. Their only two losses in such situations occurred in 1989 and 2001. Sarah Strong became the first player in NCAA women’s tournament history (regardless of class) to tally at least 100 points, 25 assists, and 10 blocks in a single tournament since blocks became an official stat in 1988. Her postseason numbers now place her among the best freshman performers in tournament history. What’s Next With this championship, UConn officially ends a near-decade drought and reasserts its dominance over the women’s game. As Paige Bueckers prepares for the WNBA Draft, the future looks equally promising. Freshman Sarah Strong and rising talent like Ashlynn Shade are poised to keep UConn in contention for years to come. For South Carolina, the journey continues with a young core and elite recruiting classes on the horizon. The Gamecocks remain a national powerhouse and will be motivated to return to the championship stage next season.

Gamecocks Use Depth, Defense, and Third-Quarter Dominance to Secure Final Appearance TAMPA, Fla. — In a clash of powerhouse programs, the South Carolina Gamecocks leaned on their bench depth, physicality, and second-half surge to defeat Texas 74-57 in the 2025 NCAA Women’s Final Four at Amalie Arena. The victory propelled the Gamecocks to their third national championship game in the last four seasons and kept their hopes alive for a historic back-to-back title run. Texas entered the game with momentum and defensive confidence after strong tournament performances, but South Carolina’s collective effort, particularly in the third quarter, broke the game open. It was the Gamecocks’ 35th win of the season, improving their record to 35-3, while Texas closed the year with an impressive 35-4 mark. Strong Start for Texas Undone by Second-Half Struggles Texas opened the game with aggression, pushing to a 10-2 lead behind strong interior play and transition opportunities. Madison Booker and Rori Harmon provided early spark, helping Texas to a 12-4 edge midway through the first quarter. The Longhorns appeared poised to challenge South Carolina’s depth with calculated ball movement and focused rebounding. But South Carolina methodically clawed back. A late first-quarter rally trimmed the Texas lead to just one point, and by halftime, the Gamecocks had established a narrow 38-35 advantage. While the Longhorns kept pace with effective midrange shooting and ball screens, foul trouble disrupted their rhythm. Booker, one of Texas’ most reliable offensive threats, picked up her third foul late in the second quarter, spending critical minutes on the bench. Her absence was immediately felt. With their floor general limited, Texas lost offensive cohesion, and South Carolina took advantage, ending the half on a 9-1 run. Gamecocks Turn the Tide in the Third Quarter The third quarter proved decisive. South Carolina came out with relentless energy and a tighter defensive game plan. A 20-9 run in the frame widened the gap, as the Gamecocks capitalized on second-chance points, fast breaks, and turnovers. Their ability to rotate fresh legs into the game created constant pressure on the fatigued Longhorns, who struggled to respond to the quickened pace. Freshman forward Joyce Edwards was particularly dominant, showcasing her athleticism and versatility. She tallied 13 points, 11 rebounds, and a career-high six assists. Her ability to drive past defenders and create plays on both ends energized South Carolina’s run. Te-Hina Paopao added firepower from beyond the arc, sinking three three-pointers as part of her 14-point outing. Bree Hall provided additional scoring off the bench, and the Gamecocks’ reserves combined for 35 points, outmatching Texas’ second unit and reinforcing South Carolina’s strength in numbers. Texas Fades Despite Early Promise Despite a promising start, Texas faltered in the face of sustained pressure. The Longhorns shot just 38% from the field and only managed nine points in the third quarter—a stark contrast to their strong first-half showing. Jordan Lee led Texas in scoring with 16 points, including three triples, while Madison Booker and Rori Harmon added 11 and eight points, respectively. Harmon also contributed seven rebounds and four assists, but the team’s offensive production dipped during critical stretches. The absence of offensive rebounds and the lack of transition scoring opportunities in the second half allowed South Carolina to control tempo. Texas also struggled to contain Edwards in the paint and Paopao on the perimeter, two key matchups that swung momentum away from the Longhorns. South Carolina’s System Shines What separates this year’s South Carolina squad from prior teams is its balanced approach. While past championship runs featured dominant stars like A’ja Wilson, Aliyah Boston, and Kamilla Cardoso, this Gamecock team relies on depth and cohesion. Nine players saw significant minutes, and head coach Dawn Staley’s decision to keep a rotating lineup on the floor kept Texas off balance all night. South Carolina’s efficiency from three-point range—hitting over 63%—was a game-changer, opening up spacing and allowing Edwards and Hall to slash through driving lanes. The Gamecocks also outscored Texas 40-22 in the paint, exploiting mismatches and crashing the boards effectively. Looking Ahead With the win, South Carolina advances to the NCAA Championship game, where they will face the top-seeded UConn Huskies. It will be a battle of dynasties, with both teams chasing history. A victory would make South Carolina the first program to win back-to-back titles since UConn’s four-year run from 2013 to 2016. For Texas, the loss marks the end of a remarkable season filled with growth and high-level performances. Despite the setback, the Longhorns tied the program’s record for most NCAA-era wins in a single season and reached the Final Four for the first time in over two decades.

Fast Start and Defensive Domination Fuel Fighting Irish Victory No. 3 seed Notre Dame delivered a commanding performance in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, defeating No. 6 seed Michigan 76-55 on Sunday afternoon at Purcell Pavilion in South Bend. With the win, the Fighting Irish punched their ticket to a fourth consecutive Sweet 16 appearance and improved their overall record to 28-5. Notre Dame came out aggressive, putting together a dominant first quarter that set the tone for the remainder of the game. The Irish overwhelmed Michigan on both ends of the floor, holding the Wolverines to their lowest scoring output of the season. Michigan entered the game averaging more than 78 points per contest, but Notre Dame’s relentless defense limited them to just 36.8% shooting and forced 16 turnovers. First Quarter Blitz Leaves Wolverines Reeling Notre Dame wasted no time establishing control. The Irish opened with an 11-2 run and closed the first quarter on a 15-2 surge, building a 32-12 advantage by the end of the opening period. Three Irish players—Hannah Hidalgo, Sonia Citron, and Liatu King—each scored eight points in the quarter as Notre Dame connected on 75% of its field goal attempts. Michigan, meanwhile, made just four of its 15 shots in the first quarter and was outrebounded 13-5. The Wolverines were unable to find rhythm against Notre Dame’s suffocating defense and trailed by 20 before the first 10 minutes were complete. King and Hidalgo Lead Balanced Attack Liatu King delivered a standout performance for the Irish. She recorded a double-double with 18 points and 15 rebounds, shooting a perfect 7-of-7 from the field and 4-of-4 from the free-throw line. Her effort marked one of the most efficient tournament outings in program history, as she became just the second player at Notre Dame to shoot 7-for-7 or better in an NCAA Tournament game. Hannah Hidalgo continued her stellar postseason with a 21-point effort. The freshman guard contributed across the board with five assists and multiple defensive plays, helping spark transition opportunities. Sonia Citron added 16 points and played a vital role on the wing, giving Notre Dame a consistent perimeter threat and spacing the floor for interior playmakers. Olivia Miles returned to the starting lineup after sustaining an ankle injury in the first round. Despite limited mobility, she tallied eight points, five assists, and four rebounds, giving the Irish a boost of experience and leadership. Michigan’s Comeback Attempts Fall Short Michigan’s offense never fully recovered from the disastrous first quarter. Although the Wolverines outscored Notre Dame 16-14 in the second period and saw a brief stretch of success led by Olivia Olson, they still trailed by 18 at the break. Olson, the Big Ten co-Freshman of the Year, led Michigan with 20 points and seven rebounds. Fellow freshman Syla Swords chipped in 17 points, but the Wolverines lacked consistent scoring elsewhere. Michigan’s third-quarter performance sealed its fate as they scored just eight points while Notre Dame continued to stretch the lead. Despite showing fight throughout the second half, Michigan struggled to convert opportunities, missed key free throws, and was outmatched on the glass. The Wolverines’ 16 turnovers also led to several Notre Dame fast-break opportunities. Notre Dame’s Defensive Identity Shines Notre Dame’s suffocating defense was the difference-maker. The Irish pressured Michigan from the opening tip, forced numerous miscues, and denied second-chance opportunities. Notre Dame limited Michigan’s offensive rhythm, closing out aggressively on shooters and boxing out consistently. The Irish held the Wolverines to their lowest scoring game of the season. Their defensive effort has been a cornerstone of their success all season, and Sunday’s performance reaffirmed that identity. What’s Next for the Irish With the win, Notre Dame advances to face either No. 2 seed TCU or No. 7 seed Louisville in the Sweet 16 in Birmingham, Alabama. The Irish have prior experience with both teams this season—dropping a game to TCU and sweeping Louisville in ACC play. Notre Dame will enter the regional semifinals playing some of its best basketball of the season, powered by its backcourt strength, efficient scoring, and a defense that has elevated them in March. Final Thoughts Notre Dame’s 76-55 win over Michigan showcased the team’s maturity, depth, and postseason readiness. From a blistering start in the first quarter to balanced scoring and dominant defense, the Irish controlled every phase of the game. While Michigan’s season ends at 23-11, the future remains bright. With three freshman starters gaining valuable postseason experience, the Wolverines will look to build upon this year’s success in the seasons ahead. For Notre Dame, the journey continues, and with momentum and confidence on their side, the Fighting Irish remain firmly in the hunt for another Final Four appearance. 

Morgan, Dunn, and Carnegie Lead Yellow Jackets to 72-57 Victory Georgia Tech pulled off an impressive second-half performance to defeat Virginia Tech 72-57 in the second round of the ACC Women’s Basketball Tournament on Thursday afternoon at First Horizon Coliseum. The ninth-seeded Yellow Jackets used a game-defining 17-0 run in the fourth quarter to secure the win and advance to the quarterfinals, where they will face top-seeded NC State. Tonie Morgan was instrumental in Georgia Tech’s victory, scoring 19 points while adding six rebounds and five assists. Kara Dunn contributed 16 points, including two critical three-pointers in the fourth quarter, and Dani Carnegie finished with 15 points and nine rebounds. Their combined efforts allowed the Yellow Jackets to avenge a double-overtime loss to the Hokies earlier in the season. Tight First Half Ends in a Deadlock The first half saw both teams exchanging leads multiple times in a closely contested matchup. Georgia Tech jumped out to an early lead, holding a 14-13 advantage at the end of the first quarter. Virginia Tech briefly gained momentum in the second quarter, tying the game at 32-32 heading into halftime after a late 13-6 scoring run. Matilda Ekh led the Hokies in the first half with 14 points, hitting back-to-back three-pointers to help Virginia Tech close the gap. Rose Micheaux, who finished the game with a team-high 19 points, kept Virginia Tech’s offense competitive, but the Hokies struggled to control the boards and contain Georgia Tech’s transition game. Georgia Tech Takes Over in the Second Half Virginia Tech took its final lead of the game early in the third quarter after a quick 5-0 spurt gave them a 37-36 advantage. However, the Yellow Jackets quickly regained control as Morgan ignited a 6-0 run to put Georgia Tech back in front. By the end of the third quarter, Georgia Tech held a 48-43 lead, setting the stage for their dominant final period. The fourth quarter was all Georgia Tech. The Yellow Jackets opened with a 17-0 run over a six-minute span, fueled by back-to-back three-pointers from Dunn and Carnegie. Virginia Tech struggled to respond, missing seven consecutive shots and turning the ball over twice. By the time the Hokies finally ended their scoring drought, Georgia Tech had built an insurmountable 67-48 lead with under three minutes to play. Georgia Tech shot a blistering 63 percent in the fourth quarter, including 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. Their defensive intensity also stifled Virginia Tech’s offense, holding the Hokies to just one field goal in the final eight minutes. The Yellow Jackets outscored Virginia Tech 24-14 in the fourth quarter to complete the statement victory. Key Factors in Georgia Tech’s Win Rebounding played a critical role in the outcome, as Georgia Tech dominated the boards with a 46-32 advantage. Dunn, Carnegie, and Kayla Blackshear each grabbed nine rebounds, helping the Yellow Jackets create second-chance opportunities and control the tempo. Defensive adjustments in the second half also proved vital. Georgia Tech forced Virginia Tech into tough, contested shots while limiting their free-throw opportunities. The Hokies shot just 38.1 percent from the field and attempted only seven free throws in the entire game, compared to Georgia Tech’s aggressive inside play that resulted in 15 trips to the foul line. Morgan’s all-around performance anchored the Yellow Jackets, as she facilitated the offense while scoring efficiently. Dunn’s timely three-pointers and Carnegie’s inside presence provided Georgia Tech with the balance needed to pull away down the stretch. What’s Next for Both Teams? Georgia Tech advances to the ACC Tournament quarterfinals for the first time since 2022, where they will face top-seeded NC State. The Yellow Jackets will look to build on their momentum and avenge their earlier 83-68 loss to the Wolfpack. A strong defensive effort and another balanced offensive performance will be key to upsetting the tournament’s top team. Virginia Tech’s season now rests in the hands of postseason selection committees. With an 18-12 record, the Hokies are on the bubble for an NCAA Tournament at-large bid and may also receive consideration for the WNIT. Despite the disappointing loss, Virginia Tech showed flashes of brilliance throughout the season and will look to regroup in preparation for postseason play. Final Thoughts Georgia Tech’s second-half surge against Virginia Tech demonstrated their ability to adjust and execute under pressure. Morgan’s leadership, Dunn’s sharpshooting, and Carnegie’s interior presence gave the Yellow Jackets the edge when it mattered most. Their dominant rebounding and defensive performance in the fourth quarter showcased their ability to lock in when the stakes are high. For Virginia Tech, the loss highlighted some of the struggles they have faced throughout the season—particularly in maintaining offensive consistency. Despite a strong first half, the Hokies faltered when Georgia Tech turned up the defensive pressure. As they await their postseason fate, Virginia Tech will need to refocus and prepare for a potential NCAA Tournament bid or WNIT appearance. With Georgia Tech moving on, the ACC Tournament continues to heat up, and their quarterfinal matchup against NC State will be a must-watch battle. The Yellow Jackets’ resilience and depth make them a dangerous team, and they will look to keep their tournament hopes alive with another strong performance in the next round.

Roberts and Williams Lead Cardinals to Hard-Fought Victory The No. 6 seed Louisville Cardinals overcame adversity and a determined Clemson squad to secure a thrilling 70-68 overtime victory in the second round of the ACC Women’s Basketball Tournament on Thursday night in Greensboro. With the win, Louisville advanced to the quarterfinals for the 11th consecutive year, where they will face No. 3 seed Duke. Tajianna Roberts played a pivotal role in overtime, scoring seven of her 16 points in the extra frame to propel the Cardinals past the 11th-seeded Tigers. She also finished with 10 rebounds, recording her second double-double of the season. Ja’Leah Williams matched Roberts with 16 points and a career-high 12 rebounds, while Mackenly Randolph added 11 points. Louisville battled through the absence of leading scorer Jayda Curry, who missed the game due to a shoulder injury sustained in the regular-season finale. Clemson’s Resilience Forces Overtime The game was a back-and-forth battle that featured 11 ties and 12 lead changes, with neither team leading by more than eight points. Clemson showed tremendous resilience, answering every Louisville run and forcing overtime with clutch shooting. Hannah Kohn led the Tigers with 14 points, including a crucial three-pointer with 4.6 seconds remaining in regulation to send the game into overtime. Raven Thompson, Mia Moore, and Loyal McQueen each contributed 12 points for Clemson, while Thompson’s corner three-pointer with 49.2 seconds left in overtime briefly gave the Tigers a one-point lead. The Tigers started the game with strong defensive intensity, holding Louisville scoreless for the first four minutes of play and jumping out to an early lead. Louisville eventually found its rhythm, going on a 12-2 run in the second quarter to take a 30-29 lead at halftime. The game remained tight throughout the second half, with neither team able to establish a comfortable lead. Late-Game Execution Secures Louisville’s Win Louisville struggled offensively for much of the night, but their defense and free-throw shooting proved crucial in the final minutes. With the game tied at 68, Randolph knocked down two clutch free throws with 38.7 seconds remaining to put the Cardinals ahead. Clemson had a chance to respond, but Thompson’s three-point attempt fell short. Roberts then sealed the victory by sinking two free throws with 5.4 seconds left, extending Louisville’s lead to three. Clemson had one final possession but was forced to settle for a quick foul inside the arc. McQueen made one of two free throws, and Louisville escaped with the two-point win. The Cardinals' ability to stay composed under pressure and capitalize on key opportunities proved to be the difference in the end. Key Factors in Louisville’s Victory Louisville’s rebounding dominance played a major role in the win, as the Cardinals held a 50-42 edge on the glass. Williams and Roberts combined for 22 rebounds, helping Louisville generate second-chance opportunities and limit Clemson’s effectiveness inside. Despite shooting just 35 percent from the field, the Cardinals found other ways to manufacture points. They outscored Clemson 16-7 in second-chance opportunities and converted 12 points off turnovers. Their defensive effort held the Tigers to 38 percent shooting overall, limiting their effectiveness in key moments. Louisville’s ability to get to the free-throw line also proved critical, as they converted 16-of-21 attempts, compared to Clemson’s 10-of-15. Clemson’s offensive attack was well-balanced, with multiple players stepping up in key moments. However, they struggled to maintain consistency, particularly in overtime, where they managed just eight points. Louisville’s defense tightened at the right moments, forcing contested shots and capitalizing on late-game mistakes. What’s Next for Both Teams? With the win, Louisville advances to the ACC Tournament quarterfinals, where they will face No. 3 seed Duke. The Cardinals previously defeated the Blue Devils 70-62 in their lone regular-season matchup on Feb. 20, and they will look to replicate that success to continue their tournament run. The matchup presents a significant challenge, as Duke boasts one of the conference’s most disciplined defenses. Louisville will need another strong performance from its supporting cast to overcome the Blue Devils. For Clemson, the loss ends their ACC Tournament journey and likely their season. The Tigers finish with a 14-17 overall record, falling just short in their attempt to upset Louisville. Despite the heartbreak, Clemson showed significant improvement throughout the season and will aim to build upon this experience moving forward. Head coach Amanda Butler praised her team’s resilience, noting that their fight and determination were evident throughout the game. The Tigers will now shift their focus to the offseason, looking to strengthen their roster and make another push in the ACC next season. Final Thoughts Louisville’s gritty victory over Clemson showcased their resilience and ability to execute under pressure. Playing without their leading scorer, the Cardinals relied on their depth, rebounding, and late-game composure to pull out the win. Roberts and Williams delivered in the clutch, ensuring Louisville advanced to the next round despite facing adversity. For Clemson, the game was a testament to their fight and determination. The Tigers led for over 17 minutes and had multiple chances to secure the upset but ultimately fell just short. As Louisville prepares for a showdown with Duke, Clemson will reflect on a season of progress and look ahead to the future. The ACC Tournament continues to deliver excitement, and with Louisville moving on, they have the opportunity to further cement their place among the conference’s top teams. Their ability to grind out a tough win under challenging circumstances speaks to their character and potential for a deep tournament run. As the Cardinals prepare for Duke, they will need another all-around effort to keep their championship aspirations alive.

Waggoner and Sidberry Lead Eagles to 76-73 Victory Boston College pulled off one of the most thrilling comebacks in ACC Tournament history, rallying from a 19-point deficit to defeat Syracuse 76-73 in the opening round on Wednesday afternoon in Greensboro. The win advances the 12th-seeded Eagles to the second round, where they will face fifth-seeded and No. 14-ranked North Carolina. Dontavia Waggoner delivered a career-high 32 points and added nine rebounds, leading the Eagles’ furious second-half surge. Teya Sidberry was equally dominant, finishing with 24 points and a career-best 17 rebounds. Their combined efforts helped Boston College erase a double-digit halftime deficit and outlast the Orange in a tense fourth-quarter battle. Syracuse’s Dominant Start Fizzles in Second Half The Orange looked poised for a statement victory early, racing out to a commanding lead behind the hot shooting of Sophie Burrows, Georgia Woolley, and Kyra Wood. Burrows led Syracuse with 23 points, while Woolley added 16 and Wood contributed 15. Syracuse built its advantage with a dominant first half, leading by as many as 19 points in the second quarter. A pair of scoring runs, including a 6-0 spurt followed by an 8-0 burst, allowed the Orange to seize control early. Wood was particularly impressive, scoring 11 points in the first quarter, marking her best scoring output in a single period all season. By halftime, Syracuse held a 45-28 advantage, appearing well on its way to a comfortable victory. Boston College Storms Back in Second Half The Eagles emerged from the locker room with renewed intensity, immediately cutting into Syracuse’s lead with a 19-4 run to open the third quarter. Waggoner and Sidberry took over the game, dominating in the paint and on the boards. Boston College outscored Syracuse 28-15 in the third frame, bringing the Orange’s once-comfortable lead down to just four points heading into the final 10 minutes. The fourth quarter was a back-and-forth battle. Syracuse managed to briefly extend its lead with a 6-0 run, but Boston College continued to apply pressure. With just over a minute remaining, JaKayla Thompson’s short jumper gave the Eagles their first lead of the game at 74-73. Syracuse had a chance to reclaim the lead, but Wood’s contested shot near the basket missed, and a chaotic scramble for the rebound resulted in Boston College securing possession. With just seconds left, Sidberry stepped to the free-throw line and calmly sank both attempts, extending the Eagles’ lead to three. Syracuse had one final chance to send the game to overtime, but Woolley’s three-point attempt was well-defended and fell short, sealing Boston College’s improbable victory. Key Factors in Boston College’s Win Boston College’s comeback was fueled by relentless defensive pressure and second-chance opportunities. The Eagles forced Syracuse into mistakes and capitalized on their size advantage inside, winning the rebounding battle. Sidberry’s dominance on the glass was instrumental, as she grabbed seven offensive rebounds to help create additional scoring opportunities. Waggoner’s ability to take over in crunch time made a significant difference, as she hit key shots throughout the second half to keep Boston College within striking distance. The Eagles’ aggressive defensive adjustments in the third quarter completely disrupted Syracuse’s offensive rhythm, limiting the Orange’s ability to generate easy scoring chances. What’s Next for Both Teams? Boston College advances to the second round of the ACC Tournament, where they will face a tough challenge against No. 5 seed North Carolina. The Tar Heels won their lone regular-season meeting against the Eagles 80-67 in January. For Syracuse, the loss marks the end of a frustrating season. The Orange finish the year with a 12-18 record, falling short of their tournament aspirations. Despite a strong start in the ACC Tournament, their inability to close out the game proved costly. With the offseason ahead, Syracuse will look to regroup and rebuild for the next campaign. Final Thoughts Boston College’s comeback victory showcased resilience, determination, and elite performances from Waggoner and Sidberry. Overcoming a 19-point deficit in postseason play speaks volumes about the Eagles’ ability to fight through adversity. Their win not only extends their season but also gives them momentum heading into the second round of the ACC Tournament. For Syracuse, the loss is a painful reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in tournament play. Their inability to maintain their first-half dominance cost them a chance at advancing. As Boston College moves forward, they will need another strong effort to continue their run in the ACC Tournament.

Wolfpack Earns Historic Win in Front of Electric Home Crowd The No. 13/12 NC State Wolfpack pulled off a monumental victory on Sunday night, defeating No. 1 Notre Dame 104-95 in double overtime at Reynolds Coliseum. The win handed the Fighting Irish their first loss since November 30, snapping a 19-game winning streak. This was NC State’s fifth all-time win over a No. 1-ranked opponent and the first at home since 1978. It also marked the first time the Wolfpack surpassed 100 points in a game since 2021 and secured their 20th consecutive home win, proving their dominance in Raleigh. A Battle of Runs and Momentum Swings The game was a back-and-forth contest from the start, featuring 21 lead changes and 21 ties across 50 minutes of action. NC State led by as many as seven points in the first quarter, fueled by Zoe Brooks’ early jumper and a three-pointer from Tilda Trygger. However, Notre Dame kept answering, with Sonia Citron and Hannah Hidalgo leading the charge to keep the Irish within striking distance. Notre Dame momentarily took control in the second quarter, leading 30-29 with four minutes left, but the Wolfpack responded with a 9-6 run to take a 40-36 halftime lead. Saniya Rivers’ putback basket and Madison Hayes’ three-pointer gave NC State momentum entering the break. Third Quarter Swings Set Up a Wild Finish Coming out of halftime, NC State extended their lead to six, but Notre Dame quickly erased the gap with a 9-0 run, fueled by a strong inside presence from Olivia Miles and Liatu King. The Wolfpack battled back, with Zamareya Jones nailing a crucial three-pointer to retake the lead at 53-50. The final quarter saw both teams exchanging baskets, neither able to pull away. NC State took an 80-77 lead with under a minute to play after Brooks converted on a tough layup, but Notre Dame had an answer. Citron delivered a clutch, contested three-pointer with 0.6 seconds remaining, tying the game at 84-84 and forcing overtime. Double Overtime Brilliance The first overtime period was equally intense, with neither team able to break away. Brooks and Trygger each scored key baskets, while Miles kept the Irish within reach. After NC State tied the game at 92-92, Notre Dame had the final possession, but the Wolfpack’s defense held strong, forcing a second overtime. NC State opened double overtime on a 10-0 run, holding Notre Dame scoreless until 27 seconds remained. Aziaha James’ highlight-reel layup off an around-the-back move sealed the win, while Brooks iced the game with two free throws, capping off a career-best performance. Record-Breaking Performances Zoe Brooks led the way with a career-high 33 points, adding 10 rebounds for her second double-double of the season. She shot 9-of-20 from the field and a perfect 14-of-14 from the free-throw line. Aziaha James continued her stellar season, scoring 20 points while delivering a crucial defensive stop in the final minutes. Saniya Rivers nearly notched a triple-double, finishing with 14 points, 13 rebounds, and nine assists while adding three blocks and two steals in 48 minutes of action. Tilda Trygger also had a career night, scoring 19 points on 8-of-9 shooting, grabbing nine rebounds, and blocking two shots. Madison Hayes added 13 points, while NC State collectively shot 46% from the field and outrebounded Notre Dame 51-49. Notre Dame’s Standout Performances Sonia Citron led Notre Dame with 23 points, including the clutch buzzer-beater to force overtime. Hannah Hidalgo had a team-high 26 points, showcasing her playmaking ability, while Olivia Miles added 22 points and six assists. Liatu King recorded her 11th double-double of the year, finishing with 16 points and 14 rebounds. Despite strong individual performances, Notre Dame struggled in the second overtime, scoring just three points in the final five minutes. What’s Next NC State will host Wake Forest on February 27 for Senior Day, looking to build on their momentum. The game will air on ACC Network Extra. Notre Dame will return home to face Florida State on February 29, followed by a showdown with Louisville on March 2. The Irish will aim to bounce back quickly as they look to close out the regular season strong and regain momentum ahead of the ACC Tournament. Final Thoughts NC State’s historic victory over the nation’s top-ranked team solidified their status as a legitimate ACC and national contender. The Wolfpack’s depth, resilience, and ability to execute in clutch moments proved crucial in securing the upset. For Notre Dame, the loss serves as a wake-up call after a dominant season. Despite the setback, the Irish remain one of the most talented teams in the country and will be a major threat in postseason play. As both teams head toward the ACC Tournament, this game will be remembered as one of the best women’s basketball matchups of the season, with elite guard play, high-level intensity, and an unforgettable finish. 

Fighting Irish Extend Winning Streak, Remain Unbeaten in ACC Play The No. 1-ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish continued their dominance with a 64-49 victory over No. 11 Duke on Monday night at Purcell Pavilion. With the win, the Irish extended their winning streak to 18 games and improved to 23-2 overall and 14-0 in the ACC , solidifying their place atop the conference standings. Duke, now 20-6 overall and 11-3 in ACC play , put up a fight in the first half, but a massive third-quarter surge from Notre Dame proved to be the difference. Hannah Hidalgo led the Irish with 19 points , while Sonia Citron added 15 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and three steals in a well-rounded performance. Defensive Battle in the First Half Both teams struggled offensively in the first half, as Duke and Notre Dame combined for just 56 points through the first 20 minutes. The Blue Devils entered the game with a clear strategy—limit Notre Dame’s transition offense and slow the pace. Their defensive pressure worked early, as Duke held the Irish to just 29 first-half points . Duke took control in the opening quarter, leading 19-16 after the first 10 minutes . Taina Mair led the way for the Blue Devils, scoring nine points in the opening frame , including a perfect 4-of-4 shooting start. Notre Dame responded in the second quarter with a 13-8 advantage , pushing them ahead 29-27 at halftime . Citron Ignites Notre Dame’s Game-Defining Run Notre Dame opened the second half with a dominant 17-1 scoring run , holding Duke to just one point in the first five and a half minutes of the third quarter. Citron was the catalyst for this surge, scoring six points in quick succession while also recording a highlight-reel block on a three-point attempt from Duke’s Ashlon Jackson. The Irish turned defensive stops into fast-break points, as Maddy Westbeld’s block led to a transition score from Hidalgo . The relentless defensive pressure forced four Duke turnovers during the run, while the Irish capitalized with transition layups and easy baskets inside. By the end of the third quarter, Notre Dame had outscored Duke 21-8 , extending their lead to 50-35 heading into the final period. The Blue Devils never recovered from the onslaught, as Notre Dame maintained a comfortable margin for the remainder of the game. Duke’s Second-Half Struggles After starting the game strong, Duke’s offense faltered in the second half. The Blue Devils shot just 32% from the field after the first quarter and struggled to generate scoring opportunities against Notre Dame’s suffocating defense. Despite 15 points from Taina Mair , Duke failed to match Notre Dame’s intensity in the second half. Freshman Toby Fournier contributed nine points , but the Blue Devils’ lack of consistent scoring options hurt their chances. Duke turned the ball over 19 times , leading to 12 points off turnovers for the Irish. The Blue Devils outscored Notre Dame 18-9 in bench points , but their lack of offensive efficiency in key moments prevented them from closing the gap. Duke’s second-chance opportunities also proved ineffective, as the Irish controlled the boards in the second half, winning the rebounding battle 41-28 . Key Player Performances Hannah Hidalgo led Notre Dame with 19 points, four assists, and three steals , showcasing her ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. Sonia Citron was instrumental in Notre Dame’s second-half run, finishing with 15 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and three steals . Maddy Westbeld added 11 points and five rebounds , while Liatu King dominated the glass, pulling down 11 rebounds to help Notre Dame control the paint.  For Duke, Taina Mair’s 15 points led the Blue Devils, while Toby Fournier chipped in nine points and two blocks off the bench. Jadyn Donovan paced Duke on the glass with seven rebounds while adding four blocked shots. Looking Ahead Notre Dame will look to keep their winning streak alive as they travel to Miami on Thursday for their next ACC matchup. With the ACC Tournament approaching, the Irish remain in control of their destiny as they push toward a potential No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Duke, meanwhile, will return home to host Louisville on Thursday night , hoping to rebound from their loss and strengthen their position in the ACC standings. With just a few games left in the regular season, the Blue Devils must regroup and find consistency on both ends of the floor. Final Thoughts Notre Dame’s ability to adjust at halftime and dominate the second half showcased why they are the top-ranked team in the country . Their defensive pressure, transition offense, and ability to capitalize on mistakes made them unstoppable in the third quarter. For Duke, the loss serves as a reminder of the challenges they face against elite competition. Despite a strong first half, their inability to sustain offensive production and take care of the basketball proved costly. If they hope to make a deep run in March, they will need to address these issues and find ways to execute under pressure. With the postseason fast approaching, both teams will look to fine-tune their game plans and solidify their tournament resumes in the coming weeks.