The 2023 NCAA men's basketball final four determined which two teams advanced to the championship game after intense regional play. Fans often ask, who won the final four last year, and the answer centers on the standout programs that reached the semifinals and the competitive matchups that defined the weekend.
Understanding the results, teams, and key players provides clarity on the tournament's momentum and sets the stage for how fans and analysts discuss the championship that followed.
| Team | Region | Final Four Result | Head Coach |
|---|---|---|---|
| UConn Huskies | East | Champion, advanced to win the national title | Dan Hurley |
| San Diego State Aztecs | South | Runner-up, lost in the championship game | Brian Dutcher |
| Miami Hurricanes | Midwest | Final Four loser, eliminated in semifinals | Jim Larrañaga |
| FAU Owls | West | Final Four loser, eliminated in semifinals | Dusty May |
2023 NCAA Final Four Teams and Paths
To answer who won the final four last year, it is essential to review the teams that reached the semifinals and how they performed under pressure. Each squad navigated a difficult bracket to secure their spot in a highly anticipated final four weekend.
The regional matchups showcased versatile offenses, stout defenses, and coaching strategies that influenced which programs advanced to the national title game and which fell short in the last weekend of the season.
UConn's Path to the Championship
The Huskies entered the tournament as a top seed and demonstrated consistent excellence on both ends of the floor. Their balanced scoring and disciplined defense made them a formidable opponent in every stage of the 2023 NCAA tournament.
Coached by Dan Hurley, Connecticut leaned on veteran leadership and deep role players to close tight games, ultimately earning a trip to the final four and then dominating on their way to the national championship.
San Diego State's Final Four Run
San Diego State surprised several observers by climbing into the final four as a mid-major powerhouse and staying competitive with the top programs. The Aztecs highlighted disciplined team play and efficient shooting in key regional contests.
Under Brian Dutcher, the squad reached the final four and played for a national title, finishing as runners-up in a championship game that emphasized their growth and the gap between them and the eventual winner.
Notable Performances in the Semifinals
The two semifinal games provided distinct narratives, with one matchup featuring a high-powered offense against a resilient defense and the other showcasing contrasting styles and coaching philosophies.
Standout individual performances and critical turns in each half shaped the outcomes, confirming the importance of experience and composure when the stakes were highest in the final four.
FAQ
Which teams competed in the 2023 final four?
UConn, San Diego State, Miami, and FAU reached the final four in 2023.
Who won the 2023 NCAA championship game after the final four?
UConn won the 2023 NCAA championship game after advancing from the final four.
Which coach led the winner out of the final four?
Dan Hurley led UConn out of the final four and to the national title.
What was the score of the 2023 championship game following the final four?
UConn defeated San Diego State in the championship game with a final score well clear of the opposition.
Key Takeaways for Future Tournaments
Looking ahead, the 2023 final four offers lessons for teams aiming to reach the top stage and perform when it matters most.
- Develop depth to survive a difficult tournament schedule.
- Balance scoring with structured team play to adapt to opponents.
- Maintain strong defensive fundamentals in high-leverage situations.
- Leverage coaching experience during crucial halftime adjustments.
- Prepare mentally for the pressure of the final four and championship game.
