Uncasville—-UConn KK Arnold penetrated the defense, delivering a pinpoint pass to Nika Mühl stationed open on the wing. Mühl quickly found herself double-teamed, but she swiftly distributed the ball to Ashlynn Shade stationed beyond the arc. Sensing the defense closing in, Shade opted to swing the ball to her right, finding Paige Bueckers. With a defender barreling toward her, Bueckers made a split-second decision, feeding Arnold, now positioned open in the right corner. The freshman point guard confidently launched a three-pointer, sinking it cleanly, marking the Huskies’ third consecutive deep shot.
Less than four minutes later, UConn replicated the feat, draining four consecutive three-pointers, effectively sealing Georgetown’s fate before even five minutes had elapsed in the second quarter.
Throughout the night, the Huskies showcased a display of fluid, dynamic, and effective basketball. Their performance was nothing short of spectacular, culminating in a downpour of rainbow confetti as they clinched victory.
In a dominating fashion, the top-seeded UConn triumphed over No. 6 Georgetown with a resounding 78-42 victory at Mohegan Sun Arena, securing their fourth consecutive Big East Tournament title and their 22nd in total.
This victory marked UConn’s 11th consecutive conference tournament crown and their 29th overall, spanning their tenure in both the Big East and American Athletic Conference. With a record of 29-5, the Huskies secured the Big East’s automatic bid for the NCAA Tournament, while the Hoyas (22-11) await a potential WNIT bid.
Reflecting on the team’s performance, UConn coach Geno Auriemma commended his players’ resilience and determination. Despite facing adversity, including injuries sidelining key players, the Huskies exhibited unwavering commitment and unity, evident in their exceptional defensive and offensive prowess throughout the game.
Paige Bueckers stood out as the Most Outstanding Player of the Big East Tournament, showcasing her versatility with 27 points, four rebounds, three assists, three steals, and a career-high five blocks. This accolade marked her second time earning the honor, following her outstanding freshman season in 2021.
Despite challenges, including the absence of key players, UConn’s depth and preparation shone through, as they executed their game plan with precision and confidence. Players like Nika Mühl and redshirt freshman Ice Brady stepped up admirably, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
Looking ahead, UConn will enjoy a brief respite before gearing up for the NCAA Tournament. With their eyes set on further glory, the Huskies eagerly anticipate learning their placement in the tournament bracket during the Selection Show on ESPN, poised to continue their pursuit of excellence on the national stage.
