Apr 1, 2002 2 min read

SAN ANTONIO (AP) – Not even an imperfect game could keep Connecticut from a perfect season. Surviving an uncharacteristic rash of turnovers and poor outside shooting with strong inside play, the Huskies beat Oklahoma 82-70 on Sunday night for their third national championship.

The frontcourt trio of Swin Cash, Asjha Jones and Tamika Williams led the Huskies (39-0) to an overwhelming rebounding advantage – and on this night, they sure needed it.

Connecticut won by big margins all season by wearing down opponents. Oklahoma (32-4) refused to let that happen.

Trailing by 16 early in the second half, Oklahoma got to within six with a little more than two minutes left. Things like that did not happen to the Huskies this season, but they responded.

But Diana Taurasi converted a key three-point play and player of the year Sue Bird wrapped it up with six straight free throws. With 18 seconds left, Bird was able to dribble out the clock and the Huskies had their title.

Connecticut committed 21 turnovers, two short of its season high, and was 0-for-9 on 3-point shots.

All that did was force the Huskies to find another way to win it, and they did by overpowering the Sooners inside.

Cash was the strongest presence with 20 points and 13 rebounds. Jones had 19 points, nine rebounds and five blocks. Williams finished with 23 points and nine rebounds.

Cash was selected the outstanding player in the Final Four.

Oh, and don’t forget the guards. Bird had 14 points and four assists and made all eight of her free throws. Taurasi added 13 points and got the honor of heaving the ball into the stands when it was over.

Oklahoma showed its resiliency by making it a game after a poor start. All-American Stacey Dales led the Sooners with 18 points. Rosalind Ross scored 17 and LaNeishea Caufield had 14.

But the Sooners could not overcome their 39 percent shooting and Connecticut’s 44-25 rebounding advantage.