In this episode of Locked On UConn, we explore the unique, high-stakes history between two elite basketball programs: UConn and Gonzaga. From their first legendary clash in the 1999 Elite Eight to their most recent battles, this isn’t a rivalry in the traditional sense but a compelling tale of two programs shaping modern college basketball. We examine the pivotal moments that defined both teams’ trajectories, the coaches who built them into powerhouses, and what makes each matchup a must-watch. Whether it’s Maui, March Madness, or neutral-site thrillers, UConn and Gonzaga always deliver when they meet on the court. Stay tuned for an in-depth breakdown of every game, key players, and what the future holds for this captivating story.

The episode begins with an exploration of UConn and Gonzaga, two programs that have become emblematic of modern college basketball’s evolution. While not a rivalry in the traditional sense, their shared history is filled with defining moments that shaped the trajectory of both teams. From UConn’s rise to national dominance to Gonzaga’s establishment as a mid-major powerhouse, these programs have intersected at critical junctures, beginning with their fateful first meeting in 1999.

The first segment dives into the 1999 Elite Eight game in Phoenix, where UConn triumphed over Gonzaga in a hard-fought battle to reach their first Final Four. Led by Rip Hamilton and Kevin Freeman, the Huskies overcame a Gonzaga squad that was the tournament’s Cinderella story. This game marked a turning point for UConn, paving the way for their first national title, and also served as Gonzaga’s introduction to the national spotlight. It was the game that ignited two extraordinary basketball journeys.

The second segment focuses on Gonzaga’s transformation under head coach Mark Few. Since taking the reins in 1999, Few has built a remarkable legacy with a 723-145 record and two Final Four appearances. Gonzaga has achieved consistent excellence despite operating outside the traditional power structure of college basketball, without a football program or major conference backing. Few’s program has become a model for sustained success, even as critics point to their conference schedule and struggles in high-pressure games. This segment reflects on how Gonzaga’s rise began with that 1999 tournament and the identity they’ve cultivated in the years since.

In the third segment, the discussion turns to the head-to-head history between UConn and Gonzaga. Every game in their series feels consequential, whether it’s in the NCAA Tournament, a high-profile neutral-site event, or a December showdown. The recap covers their classic battles, including UConn’s dramatic win in the 1999 Elite Eight, Denham Brown’s game-winner in the 2005 Maui Invitational, and Gonzaga’s breakthrough victory in 2007. The analysis highlights the stakes and storylines behind each matchup, culminating in UConn’s dominant performances in 2023, including their Elite Eight rout of Gonzaga en route to their fifth national championship.

The episode closes by reflecting on the unique legacy of this matchup. UConn and Gonzaga represent two distinct paths to basketball greatness, and their games always feel like a clash of titans. As the programs continue to evolve, their meetings remain a reminder of the high stakes and drama that make college basketball special. Looking ahead, the podcast teases what the future holds for these two storied teams and their next chapter on the hardwood.

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In today’s episode, we dive deep into the intersection of metrics and narratives in college basketball, focusing on UConn’s recent climb back into the AP Top 25 and their marquee matchup against Gonzaga at Madison Square Garden. We explore why metrics like EvanMiya’s BPR and KenPom tell a more complete story of UConn’s potential and how the AP poll reflects their resilience after a rocky start in Maui.

We’ll also dissect Gonzaga’s metrics, why they’re ranked No. 1 on EvanMiya.com, and what UConn needs to do to secure a statement win. This is about more than just rankings—it’s about proving who’s built for March.

Segment 1: Metrics, Narratives, and the AP Poll

The AP poll is often dismissed as irrelevant come March, but right now, it’s a fair reflection of UConn’s progress. Sitting at No. 18 after a gritty win over Texas and a victory over Baylor, UConn is proving they’re more than their Maui struggles. The narrative, however, remains inconsistent, with pundits cherry-picking metrics to suit their biases. We dive into the Big East’s standing as the fourth-ranked conference and why the Huskies’ climb back is as much about grit as it is about numbers.

Segment 2: Disrespect or Motivation? UConn as a 6-Seed

Bracketology whispers of UConn being a 6-seed are fueling the Huskies’ fire. Despite a resume supported by KenPom and NET rankings, the media loves to downplay the Big East. We break down why the Big East is alive and well, outpacing a declining ACC, and why the Huskies are primed to outplay their doubters. This segment explores how this underdog treatment plays into UConn’s identity and how they’ve thrived in these moments before.

Segment 3: UConn vs. Gonzaga—The Analytics Breakdown

This matchup isn’t just about rankings; it’s a chess match of metrics and styles. Gonzaga boasts the top spot in EvanMiya’s BPR rankings, led by Ryan Nembhard’s elite offensive and defensive contributions. We break down what BPR is, why it matters, and how fans can use tools like EvanMiya and KenPom to analyze matchups. For UConn, Alex Karaban and Liam McNeeley are keys to the game, but can they slow down Gonzaga’s interior dominance and force them into low-percentage threes?

The Garden will be rocking, and this game is a chance for UConn to validate their resurgence—or give critics more fuel.

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Closing Notes

UConn’s climb back into relevance isn’t just about wins—it’s about defining their identity. Whether it’s proving the AP poll right or silencing doubters ahead of March, this season is about growth, resilience, and taking the narrative into their own hands. Stay locked on for more updates, and as always, Go Huskies!

Show Summary:

On today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we explore why Geno Auriemma’s preseason assessment of Sarah Strong actually undersold her brilliance, how her historic performances continue to elevate the Huskies, and the broader impact of young stars like Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers on women’s basketball. Sarah Strong’s dominance on the court and humility off it make her the cornerstone of UConn’s future, as she joins the ranks of Maya Moore and Christyn Williams with dual weekly Big East honors. Plus, we delve into Caitlin Clark’s Time Athlete of the Year feature and what it reveals about the growing cultural relevance of women’s basketball.

Show Notes:

Segment 1: Sarah Strong’s Dominance on the Court and Youth Off It

Sarah Strong has continued to impress in her freshman campaign, recently earning Big East Player of the Week and Freshman of the Week honors, a dual recognition shared only by UConn legends Maya Moore and Christyn Williams. Strong has redefined what it means to be a freshman at UConn, leading the team in rebounds, blocks, and steals while ranking second in scoring. Her advanced metrics surpass even Breanna Stewart and Paige Bueckers at the same stage of their careers, solidifying her place as one of the most impactful players in college basketball. Geno Auriemma called her skill set the best he’s seen in a post player since Stewart, further emphasizing her value to the Huskies’ championship hopes.

While she’s a mature force on the court, Strong’s lighthearted postgame moment following her 21-point performance against Louisville—where she admitted not knowing what “Go-Go Gadget arms” meant—was a rare glimpse into her youth. Her play, however, continues to silence any doubts about her ability to thrive under immense pressure.

Segment 2: Caitlin Clark’s Influence and Women’s Basketball’s Bright Future

Shifting to Caitlin Clark, her recent recognition as Time Athlete of the Year reflects her influence both on and off the court. Clark’s candid interview delves into the privilege she acknowledges as a white player in a league built on the excellence of Black athletes, showing her self-awareness and willingness to push for equity. Her thoughtful remarks also tackle the unique challenges faced by female athletes, from gender-based double standards to intense scrutiny over emotional responses during games.

Clark’s transparency and charisma make her a generational star, and her rise comes as the WNBA is poised to receive its most talented wave of players yet. With stars like Paige Bueckers entering the professional ranks soon and players like Sarah Strong waiting in the wings, women’s basketball is experiencing a golden era that continues to break barriers and captivate audiences.

Segment 3: Sarah Strong’s Place in UConn’s Legacy and Women’s Basketball’s Future

Returning to Sarah Strong, her Big East honors mark another chapter in her remarkable journey. Her ability to impact both ends of the court and her statistical dominance elevate her to a level of stardom usually reserved for seasoned veterans. With players like Strong setting new standards, the future of UConn basketball and women’s basketball as a whole is brighter than ever. Strong joins a lineage of excellence at UConn, but her unique blend of skills and leadership potential position her as a generational talent capable of leading the Huskies for years to come.

As the team prepares for its next challenge against No. 8 Notre Dame, Sarah Strong’s performances will be critical, not just for UConn’s success this season but for continuing to build the legacy of one of the most storied programs in college basketball.

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Closing Commentary:

Sarah Strong’s rise is the perfect embodiment of UConn’s legacy of excellence. She’s not just meeting the bar set by past greats like Maya Moore and Breanna Stewart—she’s raising it. As we celebrate her accomplishments and look forward to future matchups, it’s clear that Sarah Strong is more than just a freshman phenom—she’s the future of UConn basketball. With players like Strong, Bueckers, and Clark shaping the game, the next era of women’s basketball promises to be the most exciting yet.

This has been another episode of Locked On UConn. Stay locked on and stay connected. Remember, it’s not just about getting it done—it’s about doing it in a way that can’t be done any better. Go Huskies!

UConn’s dominant win over Louisville highlighted their potential as a complete basketball team, showcasing depth, balance, and defensive prowess that could make them unstoppable. Geno Auriemma’s call for 40 minutes of excellence was finally answered, as the Huskies delivered their best performance of the season so far. Meanwhile, UConn’s No. 2 ranking in the latest AP poll, behind UCLA, reflects their strong start but also leaves room for growth as they strive to prove they belong at the top. Finally, the emergence of Sarah Strong, whose early-season impact rivals even Breanna Stewart’s freshman year, solidifies her as one of the most exciting young players in the country.

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Show Notes

Segment 1: UConn’s 40-Minute Masterclass Against Louisville

UConn’s 85-52 victory over No. 22 Louisville in the Women’s Champions Classic was a statement win that showcased their depth, balance, and defensive dominance. Geno Auriemma’s demand for 40 minutes of consistent basketball was finally met, as the Huskies started strong and never let up. Sarah Strong shined with 21 points on 8-of-10 shooting, further establishing herself as the team’s most impactful player. The depth of the bench, featuring standout contributions from players like Jana El Alfy and Morgan Cheli, was a stark contrast to last season’s injury-plagued rotations. Paige Bueckers facilitated rather than forced her offense, highlighting the team’s trust and balance. Despite Azzi Fudd’s early exit due to injury, UConn didn’t miss a beat, reinforcing their resilience and capability to adapt.

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Segment 2: Why UConn at No. 2 Makes Sense – and Why They’re Not No. 1 (Yet)

UConn’s No. 2 ranking in the AP poll, behind UCLA, feels like the right spot at this stage of the season. While the Huskies have looked dominant at times, including back-to-back blowout wins over Holy Cross and Louisville, UCLA’s consistency across a challenging schedule justifies their top spot. UConn did receive eight first-place votes, a testament to their potential, but rankings at this point in the season are fluid. The Huskies’ climb from preseason expectations to No. 2 reflects their growth, but the real tests lie ahead, with matchups like Notre Dame looming. Rankings don’t win championships, but UConn’s position will undoubtedly motivate them to prove they’re the best when it matters most.

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Segment 3: How Good is Sarah Strong? Comparing a Rising Star to Breanna Stewart’s Freshman Year

Sarah Strong’s stellar start to her UConn career has drawn inevitable comparisons to Breanna Stewart’s legendary freshman year. Through eight games, Strong is averaging 17.6 points, 7.8 rebounds, and shooting 58.7% from the field, far outpacing Stewart’s early freshman numbers. Her versatility, efficiency, and ability to step up in key moments—like her 21-point, 8-rebound performance against Louisville—have made her the most impactful player on this roster. While Stewart’s postseason run cemented her legacy, Strong is making her mark early, showing that she’s not just a freshman phenom but potentially a cornerstone for UConn’s future success.

Closing Statement

This has been another episode of Locked On UConn. I’m Mark Zanetto, reminding you to stay locked on and stay connected. Remember, it’s not just about getting it done—it’s about doing it in a way that can’t be done any better. Go Huskies!

On today’s episode, we dive into UConn’s statement win over Texas and how it could be the catalyst to get this team back to the Final Four in San Antonio. After back-to-back Quad 1 wins over Baylor and Texas, the Huskies are starting to show why they were a preseason favorite. With Alex Karaban’s return, Hassan Diarra’s masterful facilitating, and a defense holding Texas to just 65 points—well below their 81-point average—UConn is proving they can turn a corner. We’ll break down what these wins mean for their season, their climb in the NET and KenPom rankings, and how Gonzaga presents one more key test before Big East play starts against Xavier.

First Segment: UConn’s Texas Win and What It Means

UConn’s 76-65 victory over Texas wasn’t just another game—it was the type of win that can define a season. On the road, against a program averaging 81 points per game, the Huskies showcased grit, resilience, and a defensive improvement that’s been building since their struggles in Maui. Alex Karaban’s return was pivotal, with 21 points, 11 rebounds, and key leadership moments. “It was one of the longest weeks of my life,” Karaban admitted about his time in concussion protocol, but his presence provided a spark. Hassan Diarra’s career-high 11 assists showed what this offense could be when orchestrated with precision. Whether it was Samson Johnson on lobs, Solo Ball on cuts, or Karaban slipping to the basket, the offense looked cohesive, not forced. Holding Texas to 65 points, a season-low for them, highlighted the defense’s progress, pushing UConn to 13th in KenPom and 24th in the NET. This team is starting to look like the championship contender many envisioned.

Second Segment: Baylor-Texas: UConn’s Identity Emerging

Looking back at the Huskies’ win over Baylor, it’s clear this team is learning how to handle adversity. Baylor’s elite guard play exposed UConn’s flaws, but the Huskies answered with a disciplined, connected performance. Sunday’s game in Texas reinforced that progress. UConn isn’t just about hitting threes or relying on star power—they’re finding balance. Samson Johnson and Tarris Reed Jr. combined for 24 points, showcasing a developing chemistry that fills the gap left by past frontcourt combos. Their numbers over the past ten games—17.7 points, 11 rebounds, and 3.3 blocks per game—prove they’re growing into a formidable duo. While foul trouble remains an issue, Dan Hurley’s ability to manage rotations ensures UConn stays competitive. Youssouf Singare’s eight minutes of relief showed the kind of depth that will matter come March. UConn’s rise from 34th to 24th in the NET rankings is no fluke. This is a team improving by the game, proving that early-season noise was premature.

Third Segment: Gonzaga, Big East, and What’s Next

The gauntlet of tough games continues with Gonzaga, another test to solidify UConn’s identity before Big East play. Gonzaga will challenge the Huskies’ defensive strides, offensive efficiency, and ability to maintain composure in high-pressure moments. These early-season challenges have positioned UConn for long-term success, not just for Big East play but for their postseason aspirations. With Xavier up next, the conference slate promises more opportunities to grow and prove themselves. The pieces are coming together—Karaban’s leadership, Diarra’s facilitating, Ball’s scoring, and the improving frontcourt all point to a team finding its stride. Winning in Texas, where the Final Four will be held, feels symbolic. This could be the win that sets the tone for another deep run in March. UConn is showing that teams with championship coaches improve—and they improve a lot.

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Closing Statement:

UConn’s back-to-back Quad 1 wins over Baylor and Texas have shown that this team is figuring things out at the right time. With Gonzaga next and Big East play on the horizon, the Huskies are showing resilience, improvement, and the kind of potential that makes them dangerous. College basketball is about peaking at the right time, and UConn is on that trajectory. Stay locked on as we track this team’s rise, game by game. This season could get special. Stay connected, Huskies fans!

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Show Title: UConn’s Balanced Attack Overpowers Texas 76-65

Show Summary:

The UConn Huskies delivered a wire-to-wire victory against the Texas Longhorns, showcasing a masterclass in depth, efficiency, and teamwork. Alex Karaban led the charge with 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Solo Ball and Samson Johnson added crucial contributions. Despite standout performances from Texas’ Tre Johnson and Arthur Kaluma, the Huskies’ dominance on the boards and ball movement proved too much for the Longhorns.

In this episode, we break down UConn’s stellar performance, the individual contributions that stood out, and what this game means as the Huskies continue their season. From Alex Karaban’s double-double to UConn’s defensive efforts against Texas’ top scorers, we cover it all. Plus, we take a look at EvanMiya.com’s advanced analytics to highlight the impact of UConn’s top lineups and players, helping you understand what makes this team tick.

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Show Notes:

Segment 1: UConn’s Wire-to-Wire Victory Over Texas

We kick things off by diving into UConn’s commanding 76-65 win over Texas. Alex Karaban was the star of the night, leading the team with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Solo Ball added 16 points, including four clutch three-pointers, while Samson Johnson chipped in with 12 points on an efficient 6-of-7 shooting. Despite Texas’ Tre Johnson and Arthur Kaluma combining for 44 points, UConn controlled the game with superior rebounding (39-25) and balanced scoring.

Segment 2: Advanced Metrics—Why UConn’s Lineups Click

Using insights from EvanMiya.com, we analyze UConn’s top-performing lineups and individual contributions. The lineup of Alex Karaban, Liam McNeeley, Hassan Diarra, Samson Johnson, and Solo Ball boasts an impressive Adjusted Team Efficiency Margin of 53.7, illustrating how UConn’s depth and versatility give them an edge. We break down how these combinations impact UConn’s offensive flow and defensive stability, giving fans a deeper understanding of what’s driving the Huskies’ success.

Segment 3: What’s Next for UConn

The Huskies proved their resilience and adaptability against Texas, but what does this mean for their season moving forward? We discuss how this win positions UConn for future challenges and what to watch for as the team faces tougher competition. From Karaban’s consistency to the continued development of players like Tarris Reed Jr., this team looks poised to keep climbing the ranks.

Closing Thoughts:

This win over Texas highlights why UConn is such a formidable force in college basketball. With a combination of veteran leadership, emerging talent, and analytics-driven strategy, the Huskies are proving they can compete with the best. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll preview UConn’s upcoming matchups and dive even deeper into what makes this team a national title contender.

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!

In today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we dive into the news that Kansas declined a return matchup against UConn in Storrs, opting instead to send Baylor for the Big East/Big 12 Battle. Host Mark Zanetto calls out Bill Self and the Jayhawks for avoiding a challenging road game, contrasting their decision with UConn’s consistent willingness to embrace tough non-conference matchups. Mark explores the broader double standard in college basketball narratives, questioning why UConn faces criticism for its scheduling decisions while programs like Kansas seem to escape scrutiny. This decision by Kansas not only sidesteps a marquee game but also raises questions about their willingness to risk a loss in one of the toughest home environments in college basketball.

The discussion then shifts to UConn’s experimentation with a double-big lineup in their must-win game against Baylor. With Alex Karaban out, Dan Hurley turned to Samson Johnson and Tarris Reed Jr., a pairing that proved pivotal in the 76-72 victory. Johnson and Reed combined for a strong defensive presence and timely offense, helping UConn outscore Baylor by 11 points during their shared minutes on the floor. However, Hurley made it clear this strategy was a temporary adjustment out of necessity and isn’t likely to be a regular feature in UConn’s rotations. Mark reflects on Hurley’s comments, drawing parallels to past struggles when UConn lacked shooting and spacing. While the double-big lineup worked in this instance, the focus remains on returning to the versatility and speed that define Hurley’s system.

In the final segment, we break down advanced analytics from EvanMiya.com and discuss UConn’s top player performances and lineups. Alex Karaban leads the team with a Bayesian Performance Rating (BPR) of 5.96, highlighting his impact on both ends of the floor. Liam McNeeley and Hassan Diarra also stand out, with McNeeley stepping up significantly in Karaban’s absence. The analysis highlights the most effective lineup featuring Solomon Ball, Diarra, Johnson, Karaban, and McNeeley, which boasts an Adjusted Efficiency Margin of 53.7. Transitioning to UConn’s KenPom ranking of 25th, we discuss the balance between their strong offensive efficiency and areas for defensive improvement. Mark emphasizes how these metrics provide a deeper understanding of UConn’s potential as they navigate a challenging schedule and aim to solidify themselves as a national contender.

This episode is packed with insights into UConn basketball’s schedule controversies, strategic adjustments, and the metrics that reveal the team’s strengths and weaknesses. From calling out Kansas to dissecting lineup data, this is one you don’t want to miss.

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Thanks for making Locked On UConn your first listen every day. Make sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube, and don’t forget to leave a review to support the show!

On today’s Locked On UConn, we’re thrilled to welcome Maggie Vanoni as our special guest co-host. Maggie, who covers UConn women’s basketball for Hearst Connecticut Media Group, brings years of experience in sports journalism, including covering powerhouse programs like UCLA. Together, we dive into three fascinating segments: the dynamic impact of Azzi Fudd’s return and Sarah Strong’s breakout as a freshman, UConn’s daunting pre-Christmas schedule against four ranked teams, and the incredible evolution of depth in women’s college basketball over the past decade.

Show Notes

Opening

Thanks for making Locked On UConn your first listen every day. We’re free and available wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube. As part of the Locked On Podcast Network—Your Team. Every Day—we’re proud to be your go-to source for UConn men’s and women’s basketball.

Before we begin, we want to thank our listeners for your incredible support. This podcast has grown thanks to fans like you who love UConn content. To show our appreciation, we’re giving back by donating 10% of our revenue to the Husky Ticket Project and making monthly contributions to Bleeding Blue for Good to support NIL initiatives.

Segment 1: The Impact of Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong

Azzi Fudd’s return has been a game-changer for UConn, bringing scoring, leadership, and a calming presence on the court. Maggie shares her insight on how Azzi complements rising star Sarah Strong, who has already proven why she’s one of the top freshmen in the country. We discuss whether the “Sarah Strong Era” has truly begun and how her emergence has added new dimensions to UConn’s frontcourt. Has this team reached its full potential, or is there more to come? Maggie weighs in on how Azzi, Sarah, and Paige Bueckers create a dynamic trio that defenses struggle to contain.

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Segment 2: The Gauntlet Ahead – UConn’s Tough Stretch

With four ranked teams—Louisville, Iowa State, Notre Dame, and USC—on the schedule in less than three weeks, this stretch will test UConn’s depth and resilience. Maggie and I explore which of these games poses the biggest challenge and how matchups against Notre Dame and USC could shape the Huskies’ season. Is this the stretch where Paige Bueckers shifts from her usual facilitator role into a Kobe Bryant-style scorer, taking over when it’s needed most? Maggie provides her perspective on how UConn’s supporting cast, including Ice Brady, KK Arnold, and Jana El Alfy, can help navigate these high-stakes matchups.

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Segment 3: The Evolution of Depth in Women’s College Basketball

Maggie and I discuss how women’s college basketball has evolved into a much deeper and more competitive sport over the past decade. Programs like UCLA, South Carolina, and LSU are now legitimate contenders, reflecting the growing parity in the game. We explore the factors driving this change, including high-quality AAU programs, NIL opportunities, and international recruiting. Is UConn’s dominance harder to sustain in this new era? Finally, we debate UCLA’s leap to No. 1 in the rankings and whether they truly deserve that spot after narrowly beating South Carolina.

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Closing

A huge thank you to Maggie Vanoni for joining the show and sharing her incredible insight. Don’t forget to follow her coverage of UConn women’s basketball for Hearst Connecticut Media Group. If you’re enjoying the podcast, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow Huskies fans. Stay tuned for more Locked On UConn as we continue to cover every dribble, pass, and buzzer-beater this season. Go Huskies!

#uconnwomensbasketball #collegebasketball #uconnwbb 

On today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we take an in-depth look at the Huskies’ season-altering 76-72 victory over Baylor. In a game filled with drama and high stakes, Aidan Mahaney’s clutch shooting and Samson Johnson’s relentless effort helped UConn secure a win they desperately needed. This performance not only showcased the team’s resilience but also served as a turning point for the season. We’ll break down the game, reflect on Dan Hurley’s passionate postgame comments about growth and grit, and discuss what this victory means as the team heads into a challenging stretch of games.

Segment 1: UConn vs. Baylor Recap

Last night’s 76-72 victory over Baylor was exactly what UConn needed to steady their season. From the opening tip, Baylor tested the Huskies, building a quick 17-6 lead and exposing UConn’s early struggles. But the tide began to turn thanks to Aidan Mahaney’s back-to-back threes, which electrified the crowd and gave the Huskies the momentum they desperately needed. Samson Johnson’s relentless effort, both offensively and defensively, anchored the team. Johnson finished with 13 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks, while Mahaney provided critical poise and timely scoring when the team needed it most. With Alex Karaban sidelined, Liam McNeeley stepped into a larger role, showing maturity beyond his years with key plays down the stretch. The win at Gampel Pavilion wasn’t just about avoiding a loss—it was about rediscovering what this team can be when they play with heart and resilience.

Segment 2: Dan Hurley’s Reflections on Growth

In his postgame remarks, Dan Hurley didn’t shy away from acknowledging the significance of this victory. He praised his team’s “will” to fight through adversity, something he admitted had been missing in previous games. Hurley singled out Samson Johnson as a “warrior” for his gritty performance, which was crucial in a game decided by such a narrow margin. Aidan Mahaney also earned high praise, with Hurley describing him as “rising like a Phoenix out of the ashes,” calling his clutch first-half shooting the spark that kept UConn in the game. Hurley drew comparisons to pivotal moments in his past seasons, such as the turnaround game against Florida after a poor showing against St. Joe’s. He also reflected on his own need to adjust his approach, admitting that coaching frustrated hasn’t worked and that this team, full of young and developing players, requires more patience and positivity. This win, Hurley believes, is the start of something new—a foundation for the season moving forward.

Segment 3: What This Win Means Moving Forward

This victory feels like a turning point for UConn. Hurley himself called it the start of a new season, a chance for this young team to define themselves. Winning without Alex Karaban underscored the depth of this roster and the ability of players like McNeeley, Johnson, and Mahaney to step up when it matters most. With Texas and Gonzaga on the horizon, followed by the grind of Big East play, the Huskies now have momentum to carry them into this critical stretch. Hurley noted the importance of staying urgent and focused, emphasizing that this team has the potential to grow into a championship contender. The win over Baylor wasn’t just a confidence boost—it was a statement. For a team still finding its identity, this game showcased the grit, talent, and character that UConn basketball is built on. As Hurley put it, “These guys showed today they have the character of the people who’ve worn this jersey before them.” That tradition of excellence is alive and well, and this team is ready to prove it.