Published Apr 4, 12:05am ET by
Keith McCarthy - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Apr 4, 12:05am ET
Updated Apr 4, 12:06am ET
UCLA and South Carolina meet in this year's Championship Game. After stunning the undefeated Huskies, the Gamecocks are favored to claim another title on Sunday against the underdog Bruins.
|
|
|---|---|
| South Carolina Gamecocks | -120 |
| UCLA Bruins | +105 |
UCLA earned a trip to their first NCAA Championship Game following a defensive slugfest with Texas. The 51-44 win vaulted the Bruins into a matchup with South Carolina that they enter as the underdogs. All five of UCLA's starters; Lauren Betts, Kiki Rice, Gabriela Jaquez, Gianna Kneepkens, and Charlisse-Leger Walker are expected to go early in the 2026 WNBA Draft, possibly all in the first round. They will lean on that experience.
For More March Madness Betting Odds and Predictions, See the Full Hub
The Gamecocks got revenge on UConn for last season's Championship Game, ending their undefeated year in the Final Four. South Carolina now returns to the Finals for the fourth time in the past six seasons. They face UCLA in the title game, where their stifling defense will continue to play a key role in their chances of taking home another trophy. Head coach Dawn Staley has an abundance of riches to lead to yet another title.
The Gamecocks enter this game largely favored after stunning the unbeaten Huskies by 14 points in the Final Four. They also have a more recent history of success, making them an easier pick for bettors. That being said, UCLA provides some real upside here. They have a level of experience that cannot be overlooked with all five starters slated to be top-20 picks in the WNBA Draft in a couple weeks. Take the Bruins to seize the upset.
|
Pick
UCLA Bruins (+105)
|
New Player Bonus
50% up to $1000
|
