The UConn Huskies women’s basketball team has a long history of delivering dominant performances against Seton Hall. Head coach Geno Auriemma has come to expect strong showings from his team at Walsh Gymnasium in South Orange, N.J.
However, as the Huskies gear up for the postseason, they are dealing with key injuries that could impact their rotation. Freshman Morgan Cheli, who had been relieving Sarah Strong as the only forward in UConn’s small lineup, has missed the last three games due to a right ankle injury. Here’s what Coach Auriemma said about the freshman’s injury.
Morgan Cheli’s Injury Setbacks Affect UConn’s Depth
Auriemma did not provide a specific timeline for Cheli’s return but acknowledged that her injury was not progressing as expected.
“Not responding the way we had hoped it would respond,” Auriemma said on Wednesday, indicating that Cheli could be sidelined for a significant period.
Meanwhile, forward Ice Brady is in the middle of her projected three-to-five-week recovery timeline. This means UConn could enter the Big East tournament with limited frontcourt depth.
Redshirt senior Aubrey Griffin’s return has been a boost for UConn, but Auriemma knows she still needs time to regain her full form.
“Last January, before she got hurt, I thought she was playing the best basketball of her career,” Auriemma said. “I don’t know that she’s there quite yet, but the more minutes that we can get her, she does make a difference. For sure, she is a difference maker.”
When UConn first faced Seton Hall on Jan. 19, Griffin had just returned from a season-ending ACL tear and played only 11 minutes, finishing with three points and four rebounds. A month later, in the rematch, she showed glimpses of her former explosiveness, scoring six points, including an and-one layup in transition.
Cheli’s role has evolved significantly throughout her freshman season. Initially, she trained with the guards before Auriemma moved her into the forward rotation.
“I’m obviously gonna listen to him,” Cheli said with a laugh during a press appearance.
She quickly adapted to the change and became essential to UConn’s small-ball lineup. Though she primarily plays as a stretch-four, Cheli’s ability to contribute across multiple positions adds depth and flexibility to the team.
Cheli’s Versatility Proves Valuable For Huskies
In high school, Cheli played as a point guard, but at 6’2″, she has the size to match up in the frontcourt.
“There’s not a way that you pigeonhole her and say, ‘She’s this,'” Auriemma said. “She just contributes in a lot of ways.”
Cheli’s impact became evident in December when she posted five points, five rebounds, three assists, and three steals against Georgetown. She also played a crucial role in UConn’s comeback against USC, where the Huskies outscored the Trojans by 15 points while she was on the court.
As she continues to gain experience, Cheli is working on becoming more comfortable in her role, especially in the frontcourt. Despite being new to the position, she remains committed to contributing in any way possible.
“Like I said when I came in here, whatever I can do and whatever they need, I want to be willing—more than willing—to do that,” Cheli said. “So I’ve tried to just take it all and just go run with it. I’ve enjoyed it, I’ve learned a lot. I think it’s helped my game.”
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Griffin has also mentored Cheli, offering advice and support. Griffin, who has experience switching between guard and forward positions, has shared her insights on navigating the challenges of playing in the frontcourt.
“She’s also kind of an undersized post, and so she’s giving me some tips and whatnot and just reminds me to stay confident when I’m in there. She’s been a great help,” Cheli said.
Cheli’s development will be crucial for the team’s success as UConn approaches the Big East tournament and beyond. With injuries affecting their depth, her ability to adapt and perform in different roles will be an asset for the Huskies.
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