Women in Sports

Women’s March Madness Final Four 2026: Matchups, schedule, championship preview

Fans can expect a weekend of powerhouse performances and unforgettable moments

Jaquez inspired praise from all sorts of people, including March Madness legend Caitlin Clark

APRIL 3, 2026 3:22 PM EDTAPR 3, 2026, 3:22 PM EDT

The stage is set for one of the most anticipated showdowns in college basketball. The 2026 Women’s March Madness Final Four brings together four No. 1 seeds, creating a rare, high-stakes clash packed with elite talent, championship pedigrees, and serious title ambitions.

With UConn Huskies women's basketball, South Carolina Gamecocks women's basketball, UCLA Bruins women's basketball, and Texas Longhorns women's basketball all advancing, fans can expect a weekend of powerhouse performances and unforgettable moments.

The Mortgage Matchup Center ahead of the start of the NCAA Women's final four games.

Final Four Matchups and Game Schedule

All eyes turn to Phoenix as the semifinals tip off Friday night:

(1) UConn vs. (1) South Carolina — 7 p.m. ET on ESPN
(1) UCLA vs. (1) Texas — 9:30 p.m. ET on ESPN

Both games will take place at the Mortgage Matchup Center, with the second semifinal starting 30 minutes after the first game ends.

The winners will advance to the NCAA Women’s Championship Game:

Gandy Malou-Mamel #42 of the Connecticut Huskies stretches during an open practice ahead of the 2026 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament Final Four.

Championship Game: Sunday, April 5 — 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC

UConn vs. South Carolina: A Heavyweight Clash

The first semifinal features a matchup that feels like a championship preview. UConn Huskies women's basketball enters with its signature blend of discipline, elite guard play, and tournament experience. The program’s legacy in March is unmatched, and once again, it finds itself within striking distance of another title.

Sarah Strong #21 of the UConn Huskies poses for a portrait at the Phoenix Convention Center.

On the other side, the South Carolina Gamecocks women's basketball brings physical dominance and defensive intensity. Known for controlling the paint and dictating tempo, South Carolina thrives in high-pressure situations and has built a reputation as one of the toughest teams to break down.

Raven Johnson #25 of the South Carolina Gamecocks

This game will likely hinge on pace and execution. If UConn can stretch the floor and create scoring opportunities in transition, it could gain the upper hand. If South Carolina imposes its physical style and controls rebounds, it may dictate the outcome.

UCLA vs. Texas: Speed Meets Strength

The second semifinal offers a fascinating contrast in styles. UCLA Bruins women's basketball has surged into the Final Four with dynamic offense and fluid ball movement. Their ability to score quickly and efficiently makes them one of the most dangerous teams left.

Meanwhile, the Texas Longhorns women's basketball relies on toughness, defense, and relentless energy. Texas excels at disrupting rhythm and forcing turnovers, often turning defense into instant offense.

Breya Cunningham #25 of the Texas Longhorns

Expect a fast-paced battle where momentum swings could decide everything. UCLA’s shooting efficiency will be tested against Texas’ defensive pressure, making this one of the most unpredictable matchups of the tournament.

This year’s Final Four stands out for its balance. There are no underdogs here, no surprise runs, just four elite teams playing at the peak of their powers. That parity raises the stakes and heightens the drama, making every possession matter.