Tar Heels Triumph: UNC Women’s Basketball Earns Final Four Berth in Guard’s Farewell Tour
The North Carolina Tar Heels women’s basketball program is poised to make history, punching their ticket to the Final Four in what has become an unforgettable farewell journey for their standout fifth-year guard, Alyssa Ustby. This accomplishment caps off a season defined by defensive grit, veteran leadership, and an unwavering team-first mentality that has transformed UNC into a national contender.
Season at a Glance
Under sixth-year head coach Courtney Banghart, the Tar Heels built a 29–8 overall record and went 13–5 in ACC play Ranked 14th in the final AP poll and holding a Coachrank of 12, UNC redeveloped an identity rooted in defense and rebounding—two strengths that would define their tournament run (
Carmichael Arena became a fortress, with the Tar Heels racking up an impressive 35–2 non-conference home record under Banghart Their road resilience also emerged, achieving their best true road start (9–0) since 2005–06
Defensive Tenacity & Rebounding Dominance
North Carolina quickly made its presence felt with one of the nation’s most disciplined defensive units. They finished near the top of the ACC, allowing a mere 57.9 points per game and holding opponents to a 37% shooting rate Their tenacity in the paint—backed by multiple double-digit rebounding performances—set the board for success.
At the center of it all was Alyssa Ustby, whose relentless work on the glass earned her the title of UNC’s all-time leading rebounder. She tallied 1,269 career rebounds, which ranks third in ACC history (en.wikipedia.org). In the second round of the NCAA Tournament against West Virginia, Ustby notched 21 points and 16 rebounds, proving her dominance on both ends as North Carolina pulled off a 58–47 win (
Sharpshooting & Scoring Depth
While defense anchored UNC’s identity, their scoring balance staved off offensive droughts. Senior guard Lexi Donarski provided a potent 3-point threat, sinking 86 triples—fifth-highest in UNC history (en.wikipedia.org). Junior guard Reniya Kelly and freshman Lanie Grant offered reliable secondary scoring, with Kelly averaging 10.1 points per game and Grant contributing courage and key buckets throughout the season
Bench production was another critical factor—UNC’s reserves outscored opponents in 22 of 24 games, averaging 24.8 points per contest . The squad’s depth allows seamless rotations and readiness for any challenge.
Tournament Trail to the Final Four
Hosting Rounds 1 & 2: For the first time since 2015, Chapel Hill hosted NCAA early-round games. As a No. 3 seed in the Birmingham Region, UNC dismantled Oregon State and flawless West Virginia to advance .
Sweet Sixteen Showdown vs. Duke: In a highly anticipated Triangle rivalry matchup, UNC’s defense held strong. Ustby’s second-half surge helped secure a 47–38 semifinal win in Birmingham .
This victory marked the program’s first return to the Elite Eight since 2007 and set the stage for the Final Four push (reddit.com).
Ustby’s Farewell Legacy
For Ustby, this season has been more than the sum of her stats—it’s been a crowning achievement. Averaging 10.9 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, she earned first-team All-ACC and All-Defensive honors (en.wikipedia.org). Her leadership—vocal and demonstrative—anchored UNC’s mentality, and her experience became a guiding force for younger teammates .
Moving forward, freshman guards like Grant and newcomers Grace Townsend and Trayanna Crisp will need to fill the leadership void, but Ustby’s impact will echo for years
Culture Change Under Banghart
This season elevated Bathart’s tenure, showcasing UNC’s shift from Sweet Sixteen appearances to genuine national relevance. Banghart herself summed it up: “You can’t go to a national championship from never going to the Final Four…going to two Sweet Sixteens in four years, there is a culture now, an expectation”
Fan engagement exploded too—Carmichael recorded its highest attendance in over a decade, reflecting renewed excitement Combined with UNC’s top recruiting class for next season, this Final Four trip could signal the start of a sustained era of excellence.
What Lies Ahead?
- Final Four Matchup: UNC will step onto the biggest stage in Tampa Bay, facing elite competition. Their defensive structure, balanced offense, and Tar Heel toughness will be tested.
- How They Win: Execution in half-court sets, disciplined ball protection, and clutch bench scoring.
- The Long-Term Vision: Ustby’s departure makes way for younger leaders—but the culture she helped build makes it clear: UNC is no longer a tournament visitor; they’re contenders.
In Conclusion
The Tar Heels have earned their place among the nation’s elite. What began as Ustby’s final chapter has become an inspiring team narrative: collective effort over individual stardom, resilience over adversity, and a commitment to defense and rebounding. With a Final Four berth clinched, UNC not only honors Ustby’s legacy—but cements a foundation for future success.
They’re dancing into history—and this time, they’re determined not to step on each other’s toes.
