How it unfolded

On April 3, 2026, the atmosphere in Phoenix, Arizona was electric as the Women’s Final Four took center stage. Among the notable attendees was Paige Bueckers, a former UConn star and current WNBA player for the Dallas Wings. Just hours before the game, Bueckers participated in a Team USA training camp, showcasing her commitment to the sport.

As the UConn Huskies prepared to face the South Carolina Gamecocks, Bueckers expressed her feelings of ‘severe FOMO’ about missing out on her former team’s run for back-to-back championships. The Huskies were aiming to replicate their success from the 2024-25 season, where Bueckers played a pivotal role in securing the national title.

In attendance alongside Bueckers were basketball legends Diana Taurasi and Kaitlyn Chen, both of whom have made significant impacts in women’s basketball. The presence of these icons highlighted the importance of the event, not just for the teams competing but for the sport as a whole.

Flavor Flav, the iconic rapper and television personality, added a unique flair to the courtside experience, donning his signature clock and a New York Yankees hat. He was vocal about his support for the players, stating, “Just want y’all to know, I’m really here today to represent for y’all,” and encouraged the Huskies with, “Y’all gotta win today.” His enthusiasm resonated with fans and players alike.

Also spotted courtside was Maya Moore, another former UConn standout, further emphasizing the deep connections that the program fosters. The presence of such celebrated athletes at the Final Four underscores the legacy of UConn basketball and the impact it has had on women’s sports.

Ilona Maher, a rugby star, was also present, humorously noting her desire to recruit Bueckers for rugby, saying, “I gotta recruit her for rugby!” This light-hearted moment added to the celebratory atmosphere surrounding the event.

As the game commenced, the stakes were high for the UConn Huskies, who were looking to win their first back-to-back championships since 2016. The excitement in the arena was palpable, with fans rallying behind their teams, and the spotlight firmly on the players who have worked tirelessly to reach this stage.

With the game underway, all eyes were on the court as the UConn Huskies aimed to secure their legacy in women’s basketball. Bueckers, despite her absence from the team, remained a symbol of the program’s excellence and a reminder of the bright future ahead for women’s sports.