Show Summary:
In today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we dive into the Huskies’ latest dominant performance against Iowa State, led by Sarah Strong, Ashlynn Shade, and Paige Bueckers. We break down why Sarah Strong is not just UConn’s future but why she could potentially go No. 1 overall in a WNBA Draft—even over Paige Bueckers—when considering her upside and impact. We’ll also recap UConn’s record-breaking night from beyond the arc and highlight standout contributions from players like Ashlynn Shade, whose scorching 20-point first quarter stole the show. Finally, we discuss the tough injury news surrounding Ayanna Patterson, Azzi Fudd’s ongoing recovery, and how the Huskies’ depth is stepping up as they prepare for a marquee matchup against USC. Tune in for analysis, predictions, and everything you need to know about UConn hoops!
Before we dive into today’s show, we just want to take a moment to say how thankful we are for all of you. This podcast has grown so much, and it’s because of fans like you who value great UConn content. We’re proud to say we’re the only daily podcast covering both UConn men’s and women’s basketball—the basketball capital of the world—and we’re thrilled to bring you the coverage you deserve.
To show our gratitude, we’re giving back. We’re donating 10% of our revenue to the Husky Ticket Project, helping send kids to UConn games, and we’re also making monthly donations to Bleeding Blue for Good, supporting NIL initiatives that make a difference.
If you’re enjoying the show, take a moment to subscribe, follow, and leave a review wherever you listen. Thanks again for making Locked On UConn your first listen every day.
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Segment 1: WNBA Draft Hypothetical—Sarah Strong Goes No. 1
“Welcome back to Locked On UConn! Let me start with this: if the WNBA held a draft today, and Sarah Strong was eligible, I’d take her No. 1 overall— Don’t get me wrong, there are phenomenal players everywhere, but Sarah Strong has that once-in-a-generation combination of skill, versatility, and poise. She’s just 11 games into her collegiate career, and already, she looks like a fully polished pro. Like she’s already has a mortgage, 4 kids she manages an ungrateful husband and crushes here day on the daily, she looks like she has grown people problems, not whether her teammates called her go go gaget arms lol. Nothing rattles her. She’s incredibly.
Strong is averaging over 16 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals per game, and she’s doing it efficiently while being UConn’s defensive anchor. She doesn’t just fill a role; she dominates the flow of the game. Her ability to shoot from outside, attack inside, and create for others is unparalleled. When you’re looking at franchise players in the WNBA, you want someone who can do it all, and Sarah Strong is that player.
When looking at the projected 2025 WNBA Draft class, Paige Bueckers is the clear headliner, pegged as the potential No. 1 pick by the Dallas Wings. Known for her elite ball-handling, scoring ability, and clutch performances, Bueckers has captivated fans since her freshman year at UConn. She’s the definition of a complete player—someone who can run your offense, take over games, and lead a team.
And honestly, you can easily make the case for Paige going No. 1 over Sarah Strong. Her résumé, experience, and proven ability in the clutch are unmatched. But when you factor in her injury history, I’d lean toward Sarah Strong. Injuries have been a recurring challenge for Paige, and while she’s bounced back admirably, the pro ranks draft not just on what a player has done but on what they could become. Nobody has more upside than Sarah Strong.
Now, take a step back and look at the rest of the top five in the mock draft—Kiki Iriafen, Aneesah Morrow, Olivia Miles. All incredible talents. But are any of them as impactful to their current teams as Sarah Strong is to UConn? The answer is no. Strong has the size, versatility, and poise to impact the game in every way, and that’s rare. She’s a scorer, a defender, a playmaker. She controls the pace of the game and elevates everyone around her.
The pro ranks are all about upside and potential, and that’s where Strong sets herself apart. No one else in this draft class—Paige included—has the ceiling Sarah Strong does. If I’m building a franchise and looking for a transcendent cornerstone, she’s the player I’m picking.
And yet, I’ll say it again: if Sarah Strong were eligible, I’d take her over any of them. Even if underclassmen like Hanna Hidalgo or Juju Watkins were allowed in the draft, Strong would still be my choice. The WNBA is all about projecting where you’ll be and future potential, and Strong brings the promise of potentially being the greatest baskeball player of her generation maybe of all time. She has the skillset, basketball IQ, and poise to transform a franchise from day one—exactly what you look for in a No. 1 overall pick.
Now, you might argue Paige Bueckers has the track record, and JuJu Watkins has the raw explosiveness. Both are valid points. But in a league that’s constantly evolving toward positionless basketball, I want the player who can impact every aspect of the game from day one. Sarah Strong is that, and that’s why, if I had the No. 1 pick, she’s the choice.”
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Segment 2: Recap of UConn’s Record-Breaking Win Over Iowa State
“Alright, let’s talk about last night’s dominant win over Iowa State in the Basketball Hall of Fame Women’s Showcase. The Huskies weren’t just good—they were historic, setting a program record with 20 made three-pointers. UConn shot 58.8% from deep and overwhelmed the Cyclones from the opening tip to the final buzzer.
The final score was 101-68, but honestly, it felt like it could’ve been worse. The story of the night? Ashlynn Shade. She came out firing, scoring UConn’s first 14 points and finishing the first quarter with 20 on a perfect 7-7 shooting, including six threes. Shade ended the game with a career-high 27 points, going 10-13 from the field and 7-10 from three.
Now, Sarah Strong was the game’s MVP, and rightfully so. She posted a personal-best 29 points, hit five threes, grabbed nine rebounds, and added four assists. Paige Bueckers wasn’t far behind with her third straight 20-point game, finishing with 27 points on 10-15 shooting.
But here’s the thing: on a night when Strong and Bueckers were both outstanding, it was Shade who stole the spotlight. Her hot start set the tone, and Iowa State never recovered.
Led by Shade’s scorching first quarter, UConn jumped out to a 36-10 lead, essentially ending the game in the first 10 minutes. The trio of Strong, Shade, and Bueckers combined for 83 points on 65% shooting, including 17 made threes. That’s the kind of firepower that makes UConn the team to beat.
Looking ahead, UConn takes on No. 7 USC this Saturday in a White Out game at the XL Center. This will be a much tougher test, but if the Huskies can carry over this shooting performance, they’ll be hard to stop.”
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Segment 3: Key Injuries and Emerging Contributors
“Unfortunately, it wasn’t all good news for UConn. Ayanna Patterson is officially out for the season. It’s a tough blow for a player who was showing signs of growth, and her absence will be felt in terms of depth and physicality. Meanwhile, Azzi Fudd remains on the mend, and while Geno Auriemma hasn’t ruled her out for the USC game, I wouldn’t expect to see her on Saturday.
That said, the Huskies continue to get meaningful contributions from their younger players. Morgan Cheli and Allie Ziebell were solid off the bench last night, providing energy and making smart plays. KK Arnold was also steady, running the offense without making mistakes and playing great defense. She’s not flashy, but her consistency is exactly what you need from a backup guard.
What stands out about this team is the balance. Even without Patterson and Fudd, they’re getting contributions across the board. Players are stepping into their roles and thriving, whether it’s Ashlynn Shade lighting up the scoreboard or KK Arnold giving you the energy.
Depth and adaptability are going to be crucial as UConn heads into a challenging stretch of games, starting with USC. If they can maintain this level of play, they’ll solidify their spot as one of the nation’s top teams.”
Closing Thoughts
The Huskies made a statement last night with their record-breaking win, and they’re poised for an even bigger challenge against USC on Saturday. This has been another episode of Locked On UConn. I’m Mark Zanetto, Asking you to stay locked on and stay connected and to Remember it’s not just about getting it done……..it’s about doing it in a way that…. ……it can’t be done any better. …….That’s our goal every day. Go Huskies….
