The UConn Huskies women’s basketball program is synonymous with excellence, a perennial powerhouse that consistently competes for national championships. As the 2024-2025 season approaches, fans and analysts alike are keenly interested in the composition of the roster that will carry the torch for this storied program. This article delves into the anticipated UConn Huskies women’s basketball roster for the upcoming season, providing insights into the players, their potential roles, and addressing the questions that are likely on the minds of basketball enthusiasts searching online.
A Blend of Experience and Fresh Talent: The 2024-2025 Squad
The 2024-2025 UConn roster showcases a compelling mix of seasoned veterans, returning talent eager for larger roles, and highly touted newcomers. This blend is a hallmark of Geno Auriemma’s program, ensuring both immediate competitiveness and a promising future.
Guards:
Paige Bueckers (R-Sr.): A generational talent and a leading candidate for National Player of the Year, Bueckers’ return is a massive boost for the Huskies. Her scoring prowess, playmaking ability, and leadership will be central to UConn’s success.
Azzi Fudd (R-Jr.): A dynamic scorer with an impressive shooting touch, Fudd’s continued development and health are crucial for the Huskies’ offensive firepower.
Kaitlyn Chen (Gr.): A graduate transfer from Princeton, Chen brings valuable experience and playmaking skills to the guard position. Her leadership and court vision will be a significant asset.
KK Arnold (So.): After a promising freshman season where she showcased her athleticism and defensive tenacity, Arnold is expected to take on an even larger role.
Ashlynn Shade (So.): Another talented sophomore who impressed in her freshman campaign with her scoring efficiency and all-around game.
Allie Ziebell (Fr.): A highly-ranked recruit known for her shooting ability, Ziebell will look to make an immediate impact off the bench.
Morgan Cheli (Fr.): A versatile guard with excellent court vision and passing skills, Cheli is another freshman with high potential.
Qadence Samuels (So.): Samuels saw limited action in her freshman year but will be looking to carve out a role with her athleticism.
Caroline Ducharme (R-Jr.): Ducharme’s career has been hampered by injuries, but her potential as a scorer and playmaker is undeniable if she can remain healthy.
Forwards:
Sarah Strong (Fr.): The No. 1 ranked recruit in the 2024 class, Strong is a versatile forward with a polished offensive game and rebounding prowess. Her arrival is highly anticipated.
Ice Brady (R-So.): After a redshirt season and showing flashes of potential, Brady will be looking to establish herself as a key contributor in the frontcourt.
Ayanna Patterson (R-So.): Patterson has also battled injuries but possesses significant athleticism and rebounding ability. Her return to full health could provide a boost to the Huskies’ frontcourt depth.
Aubrey Griffin (R-Sr.): A versatile player capable of playing multiple positions, Griffin’s athleticism and rebounding are valuable assets.
Center:
Jana El Alfy (R-Fr.): A promising international prospect who redshirted last season due to injury, El Alfy’s size and potential in the post are intriguing.
FAQs
Who is on the UConn women’s basketball roster for the 2024–25 season?
The 2024–25 UConn Huskies women’s basketball team features a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers. Key players include:
Paige Bueckers: Redshirt senior guard and team leader.
Azzi Fudd: Senior guard known for her scoring prowess.
KK Arnold: Sophomore guard with significant contributions in her freshman year.
Ashlynn Shade: Sophomore guard adding depth to the backcourt.
Sarah Strong: Freshman forward bringing versatility to the frontcourt.
Kaitlyn Chen: Graduate transfer guard from Princeton, adding experience and playmaking ability.
Jana El Alfy: Redshirt freshman center from Egypt, providing size and international experience.
Allie Ziebell: Freshman guard with a strong high school pedigree.
Ice Brady: Sophomore forward returning from injury, expected to contribute significantly.
Caroline Ducharme: Junior guard aiming to make an impact after recovering from injuries.
Morgan Cheli: Freshman guard, currently sidelined due to injury.
This roster combines experienced leadership with youthful talent, positioning the Huskies for a competitive season.
Who are the incoming freshmen and transfers for this season?
The Huskies have bolstered their roster with notable additions:
Sarah Strong: A top-ranked freshman forward known for her scoring and rebounding abilities.
Allie Ziebell: A skilled freshman guard with a strong shooting touch.
Kaitlyn Chen: A graduate transfer guard from Princeton, bringing leadership and experience.
These newcomers are expected to make immediate contributions and add depth to the team.
Which players departed after the 2023–24 season?
The team saw several key departures:
Aaliyah Edwards: Graduated and was drafted by the WNBA’s Washington Mystics.
Nika Mühl: Graduated and was drafted by the WNBA’s Seattle Storm.
Inês Bettencourt: Transferred to Gonzaga University.
Amari Deberry: Transferred to the University of Maryland.
These departures have opened opportunities for returning players and newcomers to step up.
Who is the head coach of the UConn women’s basketball team?
The team is led by Geno Auriemma, who is in his 40th season as head coach. Under his leadership, the Huskies have become a powerhouse in women’s college basketball, securing multiple national championships.
What is the team’s record and ranking for the 2024–25 season?
As of the latest updates, the UConn Huskies boast a 37–3 overall record, including an 18–0 record in the Big East Conference. They are ranked No. 1 in the final AP Poll, reflecting their dominance throughout the season.
Which UConn players were drafted into the WNBA in 2025?
In the 2025 WNBA Draft:
Paige Bueckers: Selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Dallas Wings.
Kaitlyn Chen: Drafted 30th overall by the Golden State Valkyries.
These selections highlight the program’s continued success in developing professional-level talent.
Are there any notable injuries affecting the team?
Yes, the team has faced some injury challenges:
Morgan Cheli: Freshman guard currently sidelined due to injury.
Ayanna Patterson: Unavailable for the season due to injury.
Despite these setbacks, the team’s depth has allowed them to maintain a high level of performance.
What are the team’s prospects for the upcoming season?
With a strong mix of experienced players and talented newcomers, the Huskies are poised for another successful season. Their depth, coaching, and track record suggest they will be strong contenders in both the Big East Conference and the NCAA Tournament.
How can fans watch UConn women’s basketball games?
Fans can watch games through various platforms:
Television: Games are broadcast on networks like ESPN, ABC, and FOX.
Streaming: Available through the UConn Huskies’ official website and associated streaming services.
Radio: Live broadcasts are available via the UConn Sports Network from Learfield.
Schedules and broadcast information can be found on the official UConn Huskies website.
Where can I find the full roster and player bios?
The complete roster, including player bios and statistics, is available on the official UConn Huskies website. This resource provides detailed information on each player’s background, stats, and contributions to the team.
To conclude
The 2024–25 UConn women’s basketball team exemplifies excellence, resilience, and a commitment to maintaining their storied legacy. Under the seasoned guidance of Coach Geno Auriemma, the Huskies have seamlessly integrated new talent with experienced leadership, resulting in a formidable roster poised for success.
Key players like Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd bring experience and skill, while newcomers such as Sarah Strong and Kaitlyn Chen infuse the team with fresh energy and versatility. Despite facing challenges, including injuries to promising players like Morgan Cheli, the team’s depth ensures they remain competitive at the highest levels.
The Huskies’ impressive 37–3 record and top national ranking are testaments to their hard work, strategic play, and unwavering determination. As they continue to compete, fans can look forward to thrilling performances and the potential for another championship run.
To read more , click here
