UConn vs. South Carolina: Did the Wrong Start Time Cost UConn the Championship?

The 2023 NCAA Women's Basketball Championship game between UConn and South Carolina was a nail-biter, culminating in a hard-fought 64-49 victory for the Gamecocks. But amidst the celebrations and post-game analysis, a nagging question lingers: did the game's start time disadvantage UConn?

The game tipped off at 3:30 PM ET, a time slot that sparked considerable debate before and after the final buzzer. This article delves into the potential impact of the scheduling decision, analyzing the arguments for and against the controversial start time.

The Case for a Later Start Time

Many argue that a later start time, perhaps closer to primetime, would have benefited UConn, a team that thrives on a passionate, energized atmosphere.

• Crowd Energy: A later start time could have attracted a larger, more boisterous crowd, creating a more intimidating environment for the Gamecocks and boosting UConn's morale. The earlier time slot may have resulted in a less electrifying atmosphere, potentially impacting UConn's performance.

• Television Viewership: A primetime slot on ABC would undoubtedly have garnered higher television ratings and increased exposure for the women's game, potentially attracting a wider audience and generating greater excitement around the championship clash.

• UConn's Playing Style: UConn's high-energy, fast-paced style of play might be better suited to a later time slot, when players are fully warmed-up and energized after a full day. An earlier time may have meant the Huskies weren't at their peak performance level.

The Counterargument: Primetime Isn't Always Better

Conversely, others argue that the 3:30 PM ET start time was appropriate and didn't unfairly disadvantage UConn.

• Family-Friendly Viewing: An earlier start time allows families with young children to watch the game without disrupting their evening routines. This potentially broadens the viewership demographic.

• National Coverage: The earlier time slot ensured national coverage across various time zones, maximizing viewership across the country.

• Equal Opportunity: Some argue that both teams faced the same conditions, and therefore, the start time shouldn't be considered a determining factor in the game's outcome. South Carolina also had to adjust to the conditions, regardless of the time.

The Verdict: A Matter of Speculation

Ultimately, it's impossible to definitively say whether the 3:30 PM ET start time significantly impacted the outcome of the game. While arguments exist on both sides, the debate highlights a larger conversation about scheduling for major women's sporting events and maximizing their visibility and reach. It also brings to the forefront the importance of considering factors beyond just logistics, including team dynamics and viewer engagement.

Moving Forward: The discussion surrounding the start time should prompt a thoughtful examination of scheduling practices for future championship games. Finding a balance between maximizing viewership, ensuring family-friendly accessibility, and considering the needs of the competing teams is crucial for the continued growth and popularity of women's college basketball. What are your thoughts on the start time? Let us know in the comments below!