As the 2025-2026 college basketball season approaches, UConn finds itself a favorite to win back-to-back titles, even though Paige Bueckers has already left for the WNBA. A lot of big names are coming back for the Huskies, including red shirt sophomore Jana El Alfy, and some analysts believe she could be crucial for that hunt for that elusive back-to-back.
Phil and Ryan of the “Listen Up” podcast on YouTube talked about UConn’s chances next season and they believe that El Alfy can be an excellent spark for the Huskies and back up the returning Azzy Fudd and Sarah Strong and is in for a breakout year after getting an Achilles injury during her freshman year.
In particular, Ryan noted that El Alfy formed a strong duo with Strong last season, as she drew defenders and this would lead to Strong being open. This led co-host Phil Vecera to believe that Al Alfy and Strong may be the “best duo in the country” right now. He said (3:10):
“Just two players, right? Arguably the best duo in the country. You talk about El Alfy and you talk about Sarah Strong. So, what does that tell you now? Because to me, it’s like Al Alfy and Strong. Now, this is at every position on UConn’s roster. It’s lile Al Alfy and and Sarah Strong could start on two different rosters.”
They also touched on UConn going tall this season with the addition of Sarah Williams from Wisconsin, with the frontline of El Alfy, Strong, and Williams possibly towering over most schools in Division I. The two also discussed how this frontline would fare in a UConn under Geno Auriemma, who is more known for developing guards.
It Was Paige Bueckers Who Cooked for Jana El Alfy as She Observed Ramadan
Jana El Alfy is originally from Egypt and she ran into a conundrum during March Madness, as it was also the holy month of Ramadan. She had to go fasting for her faith but also had to be in tiptop shape for March Madness. Not to fear though, as Paige Bueckers was there to the rescue.
The current Dallas Wings star took the responsibility to cook for her teammate as she fasted, cooking breakfast for her so that she had something to eat before the sun rose. El Alfy had to eat before sunrise and could eat again once the sun set. It was Bueckers herself who reportedly offered her support.
Related: ‘Diaper Booty Working Hard’: UConn Star Azzi Fudd Hypes Up Teammate Morgan Cheli’s Intense Summer Workout Snaps
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
