In today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we dive into UConn’s dominant 85-52 victory over Louisville at the Women’s Champions Classic. Sarah Strong cemented her status as a rising star with a standout performance, while Azzi Fudd’s sharpshooting provided the offensive spark. Even with Paige Bueckers having an off night and an injury scare for Fudd, the Huskies’ depth was on full display as players like Ashlynn Shade and Jana El Alfy stepped up in crucial moments. We break down the key takeaways from the game, the emergence of Sarah Strong as a game-changer, and how UConn’s bench keeps them among the nation’s elite.

Show Notes:

Segment 1: UConn’s Depth Shines in a Dominant Victory Over Louisville

We kick things off with a breakdown of UConn’s 85-52 win over Louisville, focusing on how the team overcame an off-night from Paige Bueckers. Azzi Fudd’s 18 points, including four three-pointers, kept the offense rolling, but the highlight was Sarah Strong’s incredible performance. The freshman dominated with 21 points, eight rebounds, and stifling defense, leading Geno Auriemma to call her the “best player on the floor.” An injury scare for Fudd in the third quarter had everyone holding their breath, but she returned to the bench smiling, providing relief for fans. The Huskies proved once again that their depth is a major asset, with Ashlynn Shade contributing 13 points off the bench.

Segment 2: Sarah Strong Proves She’s the Future

In the second segment, we shine a spotlight on Sarah Strong’s breakout game. With 21 points on 8-of-10 shooting and contributions on both ends of the floor, she showed why she’s already one of the most impactful players in college basketball. We discuss Geno’s in-game declaration that Strong was the “best player on the floor” and compare her poise and versatility to UConn greats of the past. Strong isn’t just making an impact—she’s becoming a cornerstone of this team alongside Bueckers and Fudd. Her ability to score, defend, and control the game has Husky Nation buzzing about what’s to come.

Segment 3: UConn’s Bench Depth and Resilience

The third segment focuses on how UConn’s bench stepped up after Fudd’s injury. Ashlynn Shade looked every bit the future star with 13 points off the bench, hitting clutch shots when the team needed them most. Jana El Alfy, while still finding her rhythm, provided key rebounds and defensive stops. Even with Bueckers struggling offensively, her 10 rebounds and six assists highlighted her leadership and versatility. The Huskies’ 23-9 third quarter encapsulated their relentless style of play, showing why this team can compete with anyone, even when they aren’t at full strength.

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Thanks for making Locked On UConn your first listen every day. Subscribe on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. Stay tuned for our next episode as we preview UConn’s showdown with Notre Dame and what it means for the Huskies moving forward. Go Huskies!