ESPN Search

Sometimes it seems like there's no shot Kayla McBride can't hit. Notre Dame's junior and second-leading scorer is as strong with the ball in her hands as any player in New Orleans.

With Skylar Diggins leading the way, Natalie Achonwa hitting the game winner and Kayla McBride pouring in points, Notre Dame's third victory of the season over UConn clinched the Irish their first Big East tournament title.

Exactly which team is the underdog in Tuesday's Big East final? Yes, UConn has lost six of its last seven to Notre Dame. But the Irish have never won the conference tournament, going 0-for-6 against the Huskies in championship games.

It was the kind of game worthy of settling a championship, worthy of a capacity crowd and worthy of national audience. It was a game worthy of Skylar Diggins doing what she does best.

Notre Dame had the most high-profile win of the week, but these other five teams made the biggest statement as conference play opened.

The Irish and Huskies showed once again their rivalry is a great advertisement for women's basketball. But they're not scheduled to meet again beyond this year's regular-season finale.

From the Irish stepping up with Skylar Diggins in foul trouble on the bench, to Dayton and Georgia falling from the unbeaten ranks, Graham Hays sums up the week that was.