Get ready for an exciting season on the hardcourts of Storrs, because the UConn Huskies are back with a new look and some returning stars!
The Huskies' Legacy Continues
With the departure of Paige Bueckers and other key players, head coach Geno Auriemma has taken on the challenge of rebuilding and reshaping the team's lineup. As a 12-time national champion and coaching veteran, he's up for the task, and all eyes are on the players returning to Storrs.
Three Players to Watch This Season
Azzi Fudd: This one might seem obvious, but Fudd's decision to return for her final season at UConn is a big deal. After battling injuries that limited her playing time, she's ready to make a monumental impact. Despite setbacks, including an ACL tear and a knee tweak, Fudd has shown her talent and determination. Last season, she showcased her skills with 24 points and 5 rebounds in an upset victory against the defending champions, South Carolina. In the NCAA tournament, she scored an impressive 27 points against Arkansas State and 17 against South Dakota State, ranking in the top 10 nationally for deep shooting. With her ability to stretch defenses and shoot from anywhere, she's a cornerstone of the Huskies' backcourt. The big question now is whether she can step into a leadership role and guide the team with Bueckers gone.
Sarah Strong: Geno Auriemma has been singing her praises, and for good reason! Strong, a 6'2" forward with guard-like fluidity, is an exceptional talent. In her freshman season, she started all 40 games and set an NCAA record with 114 points in the tournament. Her postseason stats are impressive, averaging 19 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. This season, she's expected to take things up a notch. If she pairs up with Serah Williams, a 6'4" rim protector, they could form an unstoppable frontcourt duo. Strong's ability to stretch the floor combined with Williams' defensive prowess makes for a dynamic inside-outside combo.
KK Arnold: Arnold's journey to this point has been an inspiring one. As a freshman, she stepped into a starting role during an injury-plagued season and helped the Huskies reach the Final Four. Unfortunately, they fell short against the Iowa Hawkeyes. In her sophomore year, with the addition of Kaitlyn Chen, Arnold moved to the bench but adapted seamlessly, playing a crucial role alongside Ashlynn Shade. Despite not starting, she was a key part of the team's 12th National Championship win. Arnold scored 9 points in the national championship game against South Carolina, and now, as an upperclassman, she's set to reclaim her starting role.
These three players are poised to make a significant impact on the court this season. With their talent and experience, they'll be instrumental in shaping the Huskies' success. Who do you think will be the standout player this season? Will Fudd step up as the new leader? Can Strong and Williams dominate the frontcourt? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! Don't miss out on the latest UConn Huskies news, exclusive interviews, and recruiting coverage on SI!
