UConn rallies past Rutgers

GREENSBORO, N.C. – Connecticut’s Maya Moore struggled to get open all night against Rutgers’ smothering defense. Then, given a rare open look from long range, the fabulous freshman shot the Huskies back into the Final Four.

Moore hit a tiebreaking 3-pointer with less than 3 minutes left to propel top-seeded UConn (36-1) to a 66-56 win over the No. 2-seeded Scarlet Knights (27-7) on Tuesday in the Greensboro Regional championship.

Renee Montgomery and Ketia Swanier each scored 15 points to lead the Huskies, who rallied from a 14-point deficit to win their 15th straight game and reach their ninth Final Four – but first since their 2004 championship.

“I would say maybe it’s our turn,” UConn coach Geno Auriemma said. “Also, I think the price some of these kids have paid, the last four years and this year in particular, they were destined and due.”

Moore finished with seven points – just her second single-digit performance of the season.

Matee Ajavon scored 18 to lead Rutgers.