The UConn women’s basketball team will face a challenging matchup against Xavier tonight at 8 p.m. ET on Peacock, as they will be without six key players. The team will see Serah Williams (ankle), Blanca Quiñonez (shoulder), Caroline Ducharme (migraine), and Gandy Malou-Mamel (illness) sidelined, joining Morgan Cheli (foot/ankle) and Ice Brady (knee) on the unavailable list. As a result, the Huskies will have only nine players available for the game.
Williams left the recent victory over Seton Hall due to an apparent leg injury after a collision during the game. Geno Auriemma, the team’s head coach, has noted that Williams sustained a knee injury to her calf, and it’s uncertain whether her current ankle issue is related.
Quiñonez missed the opening two games of the season due to her shoulder injury, while Ducharme has faced her own challenges, having missed three games last December because of a shoulder issue, in addition to missing a game against Notre Dame due to illness. Malou-Mamel has had limited participation this season, having played only twice and not since November 30.
Long-term injuries continue to impact the team with Brady and Cheli remaining out. The absence of Williams will force the Huskies to adjust their starting lineup for the second time this season.
Fans can look forward to tip-off from Gampel Pavilion, where UConn will also honor Aaliyah Edwards by inducting her into the Huskies of Honor at around 7:30 p.m. ET. Despite the challenges, UConn’s resilience and ability to adapt will be crucial as they aim for victory against Xavier. With a strong home support and motivated squad, the Huskies still hold the potential for a competitive outing.