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UConn Huskies Reclaim Women’s Basketball National Championship Title
In a dominant display of skill and teamwork, the UConn Huskies have once again ascended to the pinnacle of women’s college basketball, securing their 12th national championship. They decisively defeated defending champions South Carolina with an 82-59 victory on Sunday, fueled by Azzi Fudd’s game-high 24 points. This
Key Players Lead Huskies to Victory
Alongside Fudd’s stellar performance, Sarah Strong contributed an impressive 24 points and 15 rebounds. Paige Bueckers, in her anticipated final appearance for the Huskies, added 17 points, marking a memorable end to her collegiate career with a
“It’s truly remarkable to have three exceptional players like that on one team,” remarked
Ending a Title Drought for UConn
Bueckers concluded her remarkable Huskies career by capturing the program’s first championship since 2016, concluding a nine-year titleless period. This represented the longest stretch without a
A Dynasty of Dominance
Since that initial victory, the Huskies have established a history of dominant championship reigns. These include eras led by basketball icons such as Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi in the early 2000s, the Maya Moore era from 2009-10, and the four consecutive championships from 2013-16 featuring Breanna Stewart. All of these legendary players were present in Florida on Sunday to witness
“These players inspire me to remain engaged and committed every day… It has been a considerable time since I’ve felt this emotional following a game,” shared Auriemma, highlighting the significance of this victory.
Bueckers Delivers in Championship Season
Finally at full health, Bueckers – projected as the potential No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming WNBA draft – delivered exceptional performances throughout
Overcoming Adversity
Bueckers’ career saw her become the first freshman to be named AP Player of the Year. However, her sophomore season was significantly curtailed by a tibial plateau fracture and meniscus tear. Subsequently, she suffered an ACL tear prior to the following season, demonstrating her resilience in overcoming significant setbacks.
Emotional Victory Sealed
Auriemma and Bueckers shared an emotional embrace as the Huskies secured their championship victory. When asked about his words to his star player, Auriemma simply stated, “I love you, that’s all I could say,” reflecting the deep bond and significance of the moment.
Game Decided in Third Quarter
Pulling Away in the Second Half
Consecutive three-pointers from Fudd and Strong ignited the pivotal run, establishing an insurmountable lead. With 1:32 left on the clock, Auriemma substituted Bueckers, Fudd, and Strong, acknowledging their outstanding contributions. Bueckers and Auriemma shared a prolonged hug on the sideline, celebrating the
South Carolina’s Pursuit Halted
Dawn Staley’s South Carolina team was aiming for their third title in four years and fourth overall. A victory would have placed Staley alongside Kim Mulkey as third in all-time championships, trailing only Auriemma and the late Pat Summitt, the Hall of Fame coach from Tennessee, who amassed eight championships.
UConn Avenges Previous Defeat
The Huskies’ previous appearance in a title game was in 2022, where Staley’s South Carolina team defeated