UConn star Sarah Strong headlines top Women’s Final Four rankings
UConn forward Sarah Strong remains the top-ranked player in women’s college basketball as the NCAA Tournament Final Four heads to Phoenix.
The sophomore sensation guided the Huskies to their 25th national semi-final after securing crucial victories in the Fort Worth regional bracket.
She is currently attempting to replicate the legendary achievements of former Huskies great Breanna Stewart by winning four consecutive national championships.
The upcoming semi-finals on Friday will feature a fierce battle for the ultimate crown between traditional powerhouses UConn, South Carolina, Texas and UCLA.
Defensive dominance secures top spot
Strong has maintained her undisputed position at the pinnacle of the player rankings since the pre-season tipped off.
The 6ft 2in forward recently delivered a commanding 21-point and seven-rebound performance to dismiss Notre Dame in the regional final.
Her defensive impact was even more staggering during the Texas-based regional games, accumulating 10 steals, five blocks and 16 defensive rebounds.
This relentless defensive pressure was the primary catalyst in holding elite opponents North Carolina and Notre Dame to a mere 94 combined points.
Booker shines for the Longhorns
Texas junior Madison Booker occupies the second spot on the prestigious ranking list after utterly dominating Regional 3.
The dynamic 6ft 1in forward was named the most outstanding player of her region as the Longhorns comfortably dispatched Kentucky and Michigan.
During this spectacular post-season run, the vocal team leader is shooting an incredibly efficient 58.6% from the field while averaging 22.5 points per game.
Booker will now prepare her squad to face a formidable UCLA roster featuring highly rated centre Lauren Betts.
Balanced attacks and clutch shooting
Undefeated South Carolina presents the biggest obstacle to individual brilliance with an exceptionally deep and versatile roster.
The formidable Gamecocks rely on a beautifully balanced offensive system that remarkably resulted in five of their players making the final top 15 list.
Meanwhile, veteran guard Azzi Fudd provides vital tournament experience and clutch shooting for the Huskies as the third-ranked player remaining.
The senior standout recently delivered eight crucial fourth-quarter points to completely extinguish a dangerous Notre Dame comeback attempt.