2026 Women’s NCAA Championship odds: Expert picks, best bets and predictions for UCLA vs. South Carolina

The 2026 NCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship on Sunday features the South Carolina Gamecocks (36-3) and the UCLA Bruins (36-1). The Gamecocks are in line for their fourth national title in the last decade following their 62-48 win over previously undefeated UConn. UCLA has reached its first-ever NCAA tournament championship game following a 51-44 win over Texas.

Led by Coach Cori Close , the Bruins rely on a veteran lineup led by two-time All-American center Lauren Betts (17. 2 ppg, 8. 7 rpg) and playmaking guard Kiki Rice .

A win in the national title game would be their 30 th in a row this season. South Carolina, coached by Dawn Staley , takes the court relying on a more balanced attack on offense and a relentless defense. South Carolina outrebounded UConn 47-32 on Friday night.

If the Gamecocks dominate the boards to that degree Sunday, this game will not be close. If the Bruins’ Betts shoots 70% from the field as she did Friday against Texas and Rice can handle the consistent pressure from South Carolina’s guards, UCLA will be in position to claim their first national title. Lets take a closer look at tonight’s matchup and take into consideration lineups, injuries, and other factors affecting the line and total.