It’s South Carolina vs. Connecticut for the 2022 national championship, here in downtown Minneapolis, Sunday night.
A classic in the making?
“The legend Geno Auriemma (UConn)—Dawn Staley (South Carolina) is a legend in the making. It’s kind of either passing the torch for somebody [or] somebody to keep it,” legendary sportswriter William C. Rhoden told the MSR after Connecticut’s defeat of 2021 champion Stanford. South Carolina defeated Louisville in the first semifinal game.
“The competition has been phenomenal,” Rhoden said of this year’s Final Four. “You couldn’t ask for a better ending than what we’re going to see Sunday. I think it’s tremendous.”
They Said:
Both national finalists met with the media Saturday:
“I’m pretty sure it’s going to be a grind-out game tomorrow.” —UConn Sophomore Aaliyah Edwards
“We’re definitely enjoying the moment but also just preparing and getting ready to lock in.” —UConn Senior Olivia Nelson-Ododa
“I think any time that you’re in this position to compete for a National Championship, it’s a pretty big deal.” —South Carolina HC Dawn Staley
“I think it will take us just continuing to stay focused on being a fourth quarter and second half team by just doing all the little things. I think it’s also going to also be a mental game. Whoever can be mentally stronger the longest will be the one who comes out with the W.” —South Carolina Junior Zia Cooke
“This is a big opportunity for us … to get better.” —South Carolina Senior Destanni Henderson
“This is the national championship, so it’s going to be a tough game.” —South Carolina Senior Victaria Saxton
“South Carolina does a great job of getting second-chance shots. If we can limit them, I think we’ll be in a good spot.” —UConn Senior Christyn Williams