Geno Auriemma has consistently expressed that the UConn women’s basketball team might not appear as formidable in November as they did during their triumphant season culminating in a 2025 NCAA Championship. However, as the 2025-26 season kicks off, the No. 1 ranked UConn Huskies have certainly showcased their dominance in the early part of the schedule.
In their initial matchups, UConn defeated the No. 22 Louisville and Florida State by an impressive average of 22.5 points. Despite being outscored in the fourth quarter of both contests— even with starters on the court against Louisville— the Huskies demonstrated strong defensive prowess, limiting both teams to under 70 points.
Key to UConn’s success has been the standout performances from redshirt senior guard Azzi Fudd and sophomore forward Sarah Strong, both of whom scored over 20 points in their initial games. Auriemma conveys optimism about the early season, emphasizing the importance of progress and enjoyment over relentless pursuit of perfection. “When you’re trying to be the perfect player… that just makes for a miserable season, and I don’t want that for them,” he noted.
Auriemma has also highlighted the unexpected contributions from the team’s depth, particularly from sophomore guard Kayleigh Heckel, who has emerged as the third leading scorer while coming off the bench. Heckel achieved a career-high six steals in the victory against Florida State, averaging 13 points per game on an impressive 50% shooting from the field. Junior point guard KK Arnold has also added solid support, averaging 10 points and 2.5 steals over the first two games.
Looking ahead, UConn is set to host Loyola Chicago at Gampel Pavilion, where they aim to build on their early momentum. Loyola Chicago has not recorded a victory against a ranked opponent since 2014 and has never beaten a top 10 team, which could provide UConn ample opportunity to further test their lineup and strategies.
The Huskies are experiencing a significant advantage this season with their bench strength, as evidenced when Fudd, Strong, and center Serah Williams rested during the entire fourth quarter against Florida State. Auriemma utilized all 12 available players, and with the potential return of freshman forward Blanca Quinonez and freshman center Gandy Malou-Mamel from injuries, the team’s depth could continue to expand.
While sophomore guard Morgan Cheli remains sidelined following surgery for an ankle injury, Auriemma noted that the team is on the right path to recovery. The competitive atmosphere during practice is translating onto the court, as various players vie for significant playing time. Sophomore guard Allie Ziebell’s improved performance against Florida State, where she outshined junior starter Ashlynn Shade, is indicative of this fierce competition.
The upcoming match against Loyola Chicago will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday at Gampel Pavilion and can be viewed on truTV or heard on the UConn Sports Network. As the season unfolds, UConn fans can remain hopeful, as the combination of talent and depth could very well position the Huskies for another championship run.