The magic ride had to end at some point.

The greatest class in women's basketball finished its remarkable career in Storrs with a 132-8 record following Monday night's 91-81 loss to archrival Tennessee in the Midwest regional final in Iowa City - just one step away from another Final Four.

During those four years, the Huskies produced a national championship, two Final Four appearances, one undefeated season and four straight Big East titles. Not to mention two national players of the year, a coach of the year, national recognition - and new standards for women's basketball.

Losing to the Volunteers - the Huskies beat them handily January 5 at the Hartford Civic Center, lost to them in last year's Final Four and beat them to win the 1995 national championship - was especially tough.

"It's hard. Really hard," senior center Kara Wolters said after the loss.

Still, from fans throughout Connecticut and the nation, thanks.

Wolters and teammate Nykesha Sales were among 45 finalists for the All-America team. And coach Geno Auriemma, challenged in the post season by the death of his father, received the Naismith women's coach of the year award. He also was named the Women's Basketball Coaches Association District I coach of the year for the third year in a row.