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In today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we break down the Huskies’ hard-fought 72-61 victory over Creighton and how Sarah Strong continues to make her case as the best player in the country. With a dominant 26-point, 12-rebound performance, Strong carried the team early when they struggled offensively, proving her value on both ends of the floor. We also discuss Paige Bueckers’ second-half surge and how UConn’s relentless defense secured the win in front of a record Creighton crowd.

Segment 1

The UConn Huskies solidified their place atop the Big East standings with a 72-61 win over Creighton in a highly anticipated road matchup. The victory extended UConn’s winning streak to nine games and marked their 30th consecutive conference win.

While Paige Bueckers came alive in the second half, it was Sarah Strong who carried the Huskies from start to finish. Strong’s 26-point, 12-rebound double-double marked her fifth of the season, proving once again why she’s not only a frontrunner for National Freshman of the Year but arguably the best player in the country.

Key Game Highlights:

• Sarah Strong’s Dominance:

• 26 points, 12 rebounds, 5 steals, 4 blocks

• Perfect 8-for-8 from the free-throw line

• Paige Bueckers’ Second-Half Surge:

• Scored 19 of her 22 points after halftime

• Helped seal the game when Creighton attempted to rally

• UConn’s Defensive Pressure:

• Forced 18 Creighton turnovers, leading to 17 points

• Creighton’s Record Attendance:

• The game drew 11,141 fans, a school record, but the energy wasn’t enough to stop the Huskies

Segment 2:

Why Sarah Strong is the Best Player in the Country

Sarah Strong’s performance against Creighton adds to her already impressive resume this season. Here’s why she deserves recognition as the top player in women’s college basketball:

1. Two-Way Dominance:

• Strong isn’t just an offensive powerhouse; she’s an elite defender. Her five steals and four blocks against a tough Creighton squad highlight her ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. Few players in the nation can match her defensive versatility and offensive efficiency.

2. Clutch Factor & Composure:

• In a game where UConn struggled to find its rhythm early, Strong delivered with 16 first-half points, providing the team with much-needed stability. Her perfect free-throw shooting (8-8) under pressure showcased her poise in big moments.

3. Consistency & Reliability:

• With her fifth double-double of the season, Strong has consistently been UConn’s most reliable force. Whether it’s scoring inside, stretching the floor, or anchoring the defense, she fills every role the team needs to win.

Segment 3:

Takeaways and Looking Ahead

• For UConn:

• Despite a season-low shooting percentage (40%), the Huskies showed resilience, thanks to Strong’s leadership and defensive intensity. They’ll look to continue their dominance on Wednesday against DePaul.

• For Creighton:

• The Bluejays’ impressive run hit a roadblock, with turnovers and missed opportunities proving costly. They’ll try to rebound in their upcoming matchup against Georgetown.

In summary, UConn’s win over Creighton reinforces their championship aspirations, and Sarah Strong continues to prove why she should be considered the best player in the country. Whether it’s her offensive versatility, defensive intensity, or leadership on the court, Strong’s impact is undeniable.