In a commanding home opener, the top-ranked UConn women’s basketball team triumphed over Florida State with a 99-67 victory. The game took place on Sunday, marking the 35th consecutive season that UConn has secured a win in its home opener. A highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the program’s 2025 national championship banner.
Key Performances and Game Highlights
Azzi Fudd led the team with 23 points, 20 of which came in the first half. Sarah Strong closely followed with an impressive 21 points. The bench also made significant contributions, particularly from Kayleigh Heckel, who tallied 12 points and six steals.
Game Summary
- Final Score: UConn 99, Florida State 67
- Date: Sunday
- Venue: Gampel Pavilion
- UConn Record: 2-0
- Florida State Record: 2-1
Florida State was led by Sole Williams with 14 points. Teammates Allie Kubek and Jasmine Shaver contributed 11 points each. UConn’s defense shone in the second quarter, highlighted by Heckel’s five steals, which were part of eight steals recorded by the team during this period.
Dominant Second Quarter
The Huskies opened the game sluggishly, missing several layups early on. However, a 12-0 run propelled them to a comfortable 51-27 lead by halftime. Fudd played a crucial role, scoring eight consecutive points during a late surge.
Coach’s Insights
After the game, head coach Geno Auriemma emphasized the critical roles of Fudd and Strong, stating, “Whenever we’re drawing up a play, one of the first two words out of my mouth is either Azzi or Sarah.” He highlighted their ability to draw attention, which benefits the entire team’s strategy.
Noteworthy Contributions
Another standout was Serah Williams, who notably scored seven points during a 15-0 run in the third quarter. Ayanna Patterson, returning from injury, marked her first points at Gampel Pavilion since March 20, 2023.
Future Prospects
With five new players, including Williams, UConn is adapting to the absence of former star Paige Bueckers, now playing for the Dallas Wings in the WNBA. The team outscored Florida State 37-17 in bench points, showcasing its depth as a critical asset moving forward.
UConn’s solid start signals a promising season ahead as they continue to build on their championship legacy. The unveiling of the 2025 national championship banner sets a formidable tone for the year.
