4/4/2026
By: Jennifer Portee
UCLA embraced the grind and came out on top. In a semifinal where offense took a backseat, the Bruins relied on defense and late-game composure to defeat Texas 51–44, earning the program’s first trip to the NCAA championship game.
From the opening tip, it was clear this wouldn’t be a high-scoring game. Both teams struggled to find rhythm, combining for one of the lowest point totals in Final Four history. But UCLA stayed locked in, setting the tone early by contesting nearly every shot and holding Texas to just six points in the first quarter.
Lauren Betts provided stability throughout. She finished with 16 points on 7-of-10 shooting, making the most of limited opportunities and giving UCLA a reliable presence inside. Her impact wasn’t just offensive her late block in the closing seconds helped shut the door on Texas’ comeback hopes.
The Bruins carried a 31–28 lead into the fourth quarter before creating separation with a timely run. Kiki Rice knocked down a three-pointer to spark momentum, and Gabriela Jaquez followed with a strong finish that pushed the lead into double digits.
Still, Texas responded. Applying pressure defensively, the Longhorns forced turnovers and chipped away at the deficit, cutting it to 47–44 with under a minute remaining. But UCLA didn’t panic. Rice calmly converted free throws in the final seconds, and the Bruins held firm defensively to close it out.
Texas struggled to generate consistent offense all night, particularly from Madison Booker, who was limited to six points on 3-of-23 shooting. UCLA’s defensive discipline made the difference, forcing tough looks and never allowing Texas to settle in.
It wasn’t flawless. UCLA turned the ball over 23 times and had long scoring droughts. But in a game where execution mattered more than efficiency, they delivered in the moments that counted most.
For a program still chasing its first NCAA title, this win represents a major step forward. After falling short on this stage a year ago and losing to Texas earlier this season, UCLA responded with a performance built on focus.
Now, the Bruins head to the championship game with history within reach.