UConn vs. UCLA Prediction: Paige Bueckers’ Final Four Statement Game

    The stars are out in Tampa, and none shine brighter than Paige Bueckers and Lauren Betts. In what could be her final collegiate weekend, Bueckers leads the high-powered UConn Huskies into a Final Four battle against a UCLA team powered by its 6-foot-7 force in the paint, Lauren Betts.

    This matchup has all the makings of a classic: an elite offense against a stingy defense, a Hall of Fame coach versus an underdog contender, and two of the best players in the nation facing off for a spot in the national title game.

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    UConn vs. UCLA Betting Preview

    All UConn vs. UCLA odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are correct as of Thursday, March 28, 2025.

    Spread: UConn -7.5

    Moneyline: UConn -450, UCLA +340

    Over/Under: 135.5 points

    Game Time: Friday, April 4, 2025 | 9:00 PM EST

    Location: Amalie Arena | Tampa, FL

    How To Watch: ESPN / ESPN2

    UConn comes into this game as a 7.5-point favorite, backed by their explosive offense and postseason experience under Geno Auriemma. The Huskies have averaged over 80 points in their last three games and rank first nationally in points per play. The total is set at 135.5, reflecting both UConn’s scoring prowess and UCLA’s suffocating defense, which has held opponents to just 57.9 points per game. UCLA has covered in four of its last five matchups as an underdog, while UConn has dominated ATS when scoring over 75 points.

    UConn vs. UCLA CSN Winning Probability

    UConn: 78.3%

    UCLA: 21.7%

    This projection aligns closely with the Vegas line, which favors the Huskies by more than seven points. CSN’s model heavily weighs offensive efficiency and experience, both of which UConn has in spades. UCLA’s lower probability reflects both its lack of Final Four history and UConn’s proven dominance in these deep March runs.

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    Prediction for UConn vs. UCLA

    Lauren Betts is a matchup nightmare, and her size advantage could cause trouble for UConn in the paint. But while UCLA has the edge inside, the perimeter belongs to the Huskies. With Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd, and KK Arnold all capable of catching fire from deep, UConn’s balance and tempo make them incredibly difficult to slow down. This will be UCLA’s first Final Four appearance, and while Betts gives them a legitimate chance to keep things close, it’s tough to bet against Bueckers in a big moment.

    Prediction: UConn 76, UCLA 68

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