TAMPA, Fla. — UConn has reclaimed its status at the pinnacle of women's basketball, clinching its 12th national championship title with a decisive 82-59 victory against the defending champions, South Carolina. The win, fueled by stellar performances from Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong, marked the Huskies' return to glory after a nine-year championship drought, ending a long wait since their last title in 2016.

Leading the scoring for UConn, both Fudd and Strong contributed 24 points each, while Paige Bueckers added 17 points in what was her final game with the program (37-3). Bueckers' effort was particularly poignant, capping off a distinguished career that was marred by injuries but nevertheless secured her legacy at UConn.

Coach Geno Auriemma celebrated his first title in nearly a decade, with this championship being the longest drought for him since his team won its first in 1995, when led by Rebecca Lobo. The day resonated with nostalgia as icons like Sue Bird, Diana Taurasi, Maya Moore, and Breanna Stewart were present to witness the Huskies’ triumph.

The dominant performance in the third quarter set UConn apart, as the team executed a powerful offensive strategy, overcoming the Gamecocks, who were chasing their third title in four years. UConn established an early lead, finishing the first half ahead 36-26 before sealing the game with a commanding 12-3 run to finish the third quarter, demonstrating their prowess and decisiveness.

The match saw South Carolina's attempts to prioriate their defense crumbled under UConn's pressure, which unraveled their strategy. Ultimately, this championship victory for UConn not only signifies a return to dominance in women's college basketball but also reinforces their rich history of excellence in the sport.

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