The UConn Huskies captured their 30th conference tournament championship, defeating Creighton in the Big East Tournament final. The victory showcased the exceptional talent and chemistry of the Huskies’ star trio: three-time Big East Most Outstanding Player Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd, and freshman sensation Sarah Strong.
In their post-game press conference, the players reflected on what makes this team special heading into the NCAA Tournament. With a blend of veteran leadership and fresh talent, UConn appears poised for a deep March run after a season in which injuries have been less of a factor than in previous campaigns.
How UConn’s Big Three Found Their Chemistry
UConn guard Azzi Fudd described playing alongside Bueckers and Strong as “incredibly fun,” highlighting how their basketball IQ makes everything easier.
“Playing with people who just know how to play basketball, who can do just about everything on the court, makes it so easy,” said Fudd, who missed last year’s tournament because of injury.
Paige Bueckers, completing her fifth year at UConn, emphasized the team’s depth as a key difference from previous years.
“Our ability to play with different lineups—go big, go small, have people available off the bench that can contribute and do great things for the team,” she noted as an advantage heading into March Madness.
Sarah Strong, experiencing her first Big East Tournament as a freshman, maintained her steady approach to the championship.
“I don’t really think about it too much that it’s a championship game. I just try to keep my same mentality for every other game,” she stated, demonstrating remarkable composure.
Coach Geno Auriemma praised the trio’s complementary skills, noting how they elevate each other’s games.
“All three of them do a lot to help each other,” he said, particularly highlighting how Fudd benefits from the attention defenders pay to Bueckers and Strong.
Bueckers Brings Joy and Excellence to Tournament Play
When asked about her “postseason” mode, Bueckers emphasized her mindset shift.
“There’s an emphasis on me having fun during this last postseason run. Just enjoying it, embracing it. I love playing with this team, love playing at UConn, love playing in these environments,” the star Huskies player said.
Bueckers made history as the first-ever three-time Big East Most Outstanding Player, an achievement she quickly attributed to her teammates.
“It’s hard to do something that’s never been done at UConn before. I’m grateful, I’m blessed, but it’s really a team achievement,” she reflected.
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Auriemma acknowledged the unprecedented pressure Bueckers faces.
“It’s a heavy weight to carry around everywhere you go. No matter what you do, more is expected from you.” Yet he marveled at her ability to “constantly come up with these kinds of performances time and time again.”
Heading into the NCAA Tournament, Bueckers appears healthier than in previous years.
Auriemma noted, “She’s healthier. She’s put a lot of work in. The experience that she’s had playing in the tournament certainly helps. Less wear and tear on her body for sure this past season.”
Guided by Auriemma’s experience and strategic acumen, the Huskies are eager to embrace the challenges of March Madness and pursue their ultimate goal of a national championship.
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