The final 1:50 of the 2022 NCAA Women’s Final Four matchup between UConn and Stanford was filled with tension, drama, and chaos, culminating in a nail-biting finish that left fans on the edge of their seats. In what became a classic, both teams fought tooth and nail, with everything on the line, as the game swung back and forth in those final moments.
With just under two minutes to go, UConn was holding a narrow lead, but Stanford wasn’t backing down. Despite struggling with their shooting throughout the game, the Cardinal made key plays to stay within striking distance. However, UConn’s resilience under pressure and clutch plays, especially at the free-throw line, were the difference makers as the game neared its conclusion.
The drama began when Stanford’s Haley Jones, who had been instrumental for the Cardinal, made a strong move to the basket, pulling Stanford within just four points. Then came a costly turnover by UConn, where they mishandled the ball on an inbound play. This gave Stanford a golden opportunity to capitalize, and they did just that, scoring a quick three-pointer from Lexie Hull to cut the deficit to just one possession.
But the Huskies didn’t buckle. Paige Bueckers, who had been solid throughout, managed to guide the team through the storm. UConn, despite turnovers and missed opportunities, kept their composure and got crucial free throws in the final moments. Stanford fouled UConn players in a bid to stop the clock, but the Huskies were clinical from the line, making several key free throws to extend their lead.
Stanford, with just 11 seconds remaining, still had hope. They had a chance to tie the game with a three-pointer, but their shot missed, and the rebound went to UConn’s Azzi Fudd, who was fouled. Fudd sank both free throws, sealing the victory for UConn, which held a 63-58 lead as time ran out.
This chaotic ending left Stanford’s 24-game win streak in ruins and secured UConn’s spot in the national championship game. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams displaying incredible skill and determination. Despite the drama, UConn’s composure and free-throw shooting in the final moments proved to be the difference, earning them the chance to play for the title. The game will go down in history as one of the most thrilling finishes in NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament history.