In a recent video breakdown, Quita on “Quita Loves Sports” YouTube channel, explained how Geno Auriemma’s Huskies are going to manage the loss of former superstar guard Paige Bueckers, who is now playing for the Indiana Fever in the WNBA.
Quita’s remarks referred to Kayleigh Heckel, a transfer from USC, as a major component in stabilizing the UConn guard rotation, and also the significance of the arrival of Sarah Williams in the frontcourt.
“They lost Paige Bueckers and this is a big loss to this team… Kayleigh Heckel will receive a lot of bench minutes at UConn.” Quita said. ”Another player, another huge player that UConn got was Serah Williams.” (3:20)
The departure of Bueckers leaves Geno Auriemma with a lot of work to do, as they will rely on the old guard and recruits to keep their national championship credentials in the offense. Both Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong will be back as the main contributors, taking on larger roles.
Non-Conference Outlook and Depth Chart of Geno Auriemma’s UConn
UConn seemed to have solved its problems at the backcourt position with the transfer portal, acquiring Kayleigh Heckel. The commitment was confirmed by ESPN as a step aimed by Geno Auriemma to strengthen the team in defensive flexibility and fast break agility.
Up front, Serah Williams, a two-time All-Big Ten First Team selection at Wisconsin, brings rebounding, and rim protection according to Daniel Connolly of UConn WBB Weekly. She averaged 19.2 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game in 2024-25, including winning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.
Auriemma, in his 41st season, will return a rotation that will feature Azzi Fudd, Sarah Strong, KK Arnold, and Jana El Alfy.
The 2025-26 non-conference schedule for UConn seems to be one of the most challenging in the nation. Eleven of the opponents are in power conferences, and most of them were NCAA tournament teams last year. The Huskies will play in Germany, Los Angeles, New York, and some of their most striking opponents include Notre Dame, Louisville, Tennessee, Iowa, and USC.
The early-season tests, along with their new additions, could not only boost their tournament resume but also be an early indication of their championship hopes.
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