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And here we go again. A Final Four loaded with No. 1 seeds delivers must-watch drama, and the marquee matchup features the UConn Huskies squaring off with the South Carolina Gamecocks.
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It’s the rematch everyone has circled. While revenge might be the easy storyline, South Carolina has made it clear last round that’s never their focus. This is a clash between two elite, disciplined programs that carry themselves with class.
UConn has steamrolled its way here, but this is the spot where it finally meets its equal. Expect a tightly contested thriller as I break down why in my South Carolina vs. UConn predictions and college basketball picks for Friday, April 3.
South Carolina vs UConn prediction
Who will win South Carolina vs UConn?
UConn: There’s just no taking down those Huskies. South Carolina is about as formidable as it gets when it comes to challenging them, but actually beating UConn is a different task entirely. Their depth is second to none, their defense brings relentless pressure, and they’re led by AP Player of the Year Sarah Strong. It doesn’t get much more complete than this squad.
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South Carolina vs UConn best bet: South Carolina +6.5 (-110 at bet365)
Forget last year, this is a new chapter with a completely different feel. While many will point to past results, this rematch tells a different story. The UConn Huskies have dominated opponents with an average margin north of 37 points, but Friday presents a tougher test.
The South Carolina Gamecocks are far more balanced now, with all five starters averaging double figures after having just three do so a season ago. Their offense has surged to 87.1 points per game, and improved shot selection has been key, hitting 50% or better in three of four tournament games.
Meanwhile, the Huskies have cooled off a bit, shooting 56% in the second round before dropping to 40% and 44% in the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight.
If that efficiency holds, South Carolina has the tools to close the gap and keep this battle competitive.
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COVERS INTEL:
The UConn Huskies own the nation’s top scoring defense, surrendering just 50.1 points per game while forcing an average of 15.7 steals.
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South Carolina vs UConn same-game parlay (SGP)
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UConn moneyline
South Carolina Team Total Over 64.5
Over 135.5
+230 at bet365
UConn heads into Friday riding a 54-game winning streak dating back to Feb. 9, 2025, and much to South Carolina’s frustration, that run looks more than ready to reach 55 as they punch their ticket to the national title game.
The Huskies’ defense is the real deal, but the Gamecocks have the firepower to go toe-to-toe with anyone. After setting a program record with 87.1 average points per game this season — nearly eight more than last year — this team total feels a bit short, and it’s time to give Joyce Edwards and company their due.
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It all lines up with backing the Over as well. Both teams can score buckets in their sleep, and when you factor in UConn’s 87.9 points per game, this matchup has all the makings of a high-scoring affair.
South Carolina vs UConn odds
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Spread: South Carolina +6.5 (-110) | UConn -6.5 (-110)
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Moneyline: South Carolina +255 | UConn -315
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Over/Under: Over 135.5 (-110) | Under 135.5 (-110)
How to watch South Carolina vs UConn
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Location |
Mortgage Matchup Center, Phoenix, AZ |
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Date |
Friday, April 3, 2026 |
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Tip-off |
7:00 p.m. ET |
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TV |
ESPN |
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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