Paige Bueckers, sidelined by a knee injury last year, made a triumphant return to the NCAA Tournament, leading UConn to the national semi-finals with a 28-point performance against Southern California. Bueckers' determination and relentless effort propelled the Huskies to their 23rd national semi-final appearance, a record for any school.

Despite facing a formidable opponent in USC freshman All-American JuJu Watkins, Bueckers sparked a decisive run in the final five minutes, scoring seven points and assisting on a three-point play to secure the victory. UConn's 11 straight points put away the Trojans, who were seeking their first Final Four appearance since 1986.

Bueckers' performance was particularly impressive given the challenges UConn faced this season. Beset by injuries that left them with only eight healthy players, the Huskies managed minutes, fouls, and exhaustion to overcome adversity and reach the Final Four.

Watkins, who set the NCAA freshman scoring record earlier in the game, was held in check by UConn's relentless defense. The Huskies' constant double-teams and switching defenders made it difficult for Watkins to get clean looks at the rim.

UConn will now face Caitlin Clark and Iowa in the Final Four, a matchup that promises to be one of the most anticipated in women's college basketball history. Bueckers' return to the Final Four, after missing last year due to injury, is a testament to her resilience and determination.