The No. 3 UConn Huskies punched their ticket to the Big East Tournament championship game for a fifth-straight appearance with a commanding second-half performance against Villanova.
Despite early defensive struggles, the Huskies tightened up in the third quarter, limiting Villanova’s offensive opportunities and showing their dominance. Star Paige Bueckers led the charge offensively, while Sarah Strong’s rebounding efforts played a crucial role in securing the 30th win of UConn’s season.
Defensive Adjustments Spark Second-Half Domination
Following the win, UConn coach Geno Auriemma emphasized the importance of making defensive adjustments, which proved vital in turning the game around.
Auriemma also reinforced that defense is the foundation for success in March. He pointed out that even when shots aren’t falling, a strong defensive presence can still control the game. Villanova was held scoreless for 16 minutes a testament to the Huskies’ ability to adapt mid-game and lock down opponents.
During the second quarter, Paige Bueckers took charge of the offense by demonstrating her scoring prowess, which helped UConn achieve offensive success.
She thanked her teammates for their effective screens, which enabled her to score easily.
“Once you make a few, the basket seems a little bit wider,” Bueckers explained, describing the confidence she felt during her scoring run.
Bueckers emphasized the team’s need to prevent Villanova from approaching the paint while making more challenges on opponents’ shots. She also explained the defensive boost UConn achieved during the third quarter as the key factor in their comeback.
“We knew we had to make them uncomfortable,” she said, emphasizing their commitment to defensive excellence.
Bueckers noted that the first half served as a wake-up call, reminding the team that they cannot afford defensive lapses in crucial games. “We needed that push.”
Sarah Strong’s Rebounding, Azzi Fudd’s Defensive Hustle Propel UConn
Sarah Strong continued her stellar postseason debut with a season-high 16 rebounds. Her relentless presence on the glass, especially on the offensive end, gave UConn second-chance opportunities.
“I just crashed the boards and stayed aggressive,” she said about her approach to rebounding.
Coach Auriemma highlighted her rebounding instincts to her deep understanding of the game. “She impacts the game in every single area” he said, noting that having her on the floor is like having a game changer in multiple aspects.
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Azzi Fudd delivered great defensive impact through her important steals that interrupted Villanova’s team plays. Coach Auriemma praised Fudd’s ability to make an impact across multiple game aspects because her defensive energy brought valuable intensity to the team. “Even when her shots aren’t falling, she finds other ways to contribute,” he said.
As UConn prepares for the final, the team remains focused on consistency.
“It’s about playing with the same energy for all 40 minutes,” Bueckers emphasized. With their depth and defensive intensity peaking at the right time, the Huskies are poised to compete for another Big East title.
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