In an impressive season opener, the UConn Huskies defeated No. 20 Louisville 79-66 at the Armed Forces Classic. This victory marked UConn’s 30th consecutive season-opening win, solidifying the team’s status as the NCAA Division I leader in this category.
UConn Starts Strong Against Louisville
The Huskies, ranked No. 1 in the AP preseason poll, showcased their talent and depth on Tuesday night. Despite missing three-time All-American Paige Bueckers, who recently joined the WNBA, UConn demonstrated their capability with a combination of seasoned players and promising newcomers.
Key Performers
- Azzi Fudd: Scored 20 points and was pivotal in guiding the team’s offense throughout the game.
- Sarah Strong: Contributed 21 points, along with 9 rebounds and 5 assists, showcasing her versatility and playmaking ability.
- KK Arnold: Added 13 points, supporting the offensive effort effectively.
- Kayleigh Heckel: Contributed 14 points as a key offensive contributor following her transfer from USC.
- Serah Williams: Made an impactful debut, earning 4 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists.
Game Highlights
The game featured a vibrant start for UConn, with a 25-9 lead by the end of the first quarter. They maintained a significant advantage, leading by as many as 28 points in the first half. UConn showcased a strong inside presence, dominating the paint with a 50-18 scoring margin there.
Although UConn struggled with their perimeter shooting, going only 4-for-26 from beyond the arc, they effectively managed to control the game. Coach Geno Auriemma expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, noting their ability to maintain momentum even while struggling with three-point attempts.
Second Half Challenges
The second half proved more challenging as Louisville adjusted their defense, narrowing the gap to 10 points late in the game. Fudd and Strong responded with clutch baskets to secure the win, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus in close situations.
Future Prospects
The UConn Huskies demonstrated that they are ready to continue their pursuit of excellence this season. Coach Auriemma downplayed concerns regarding the second half, reminding fans that adjustments and learning are part of the game. As the squad builds chemistry and experience, their potential for success looks promising.
This opening matchup against a ranked opponent was notable for UConn, marking their first such contest since the 2017-18 season. With a win against Louisville, UConn improves to 7-1 in season openers against Top 25 teams.
