The UConn women’s basketball team is once again stealing the spotlight as they charge into the 2025 NCAA Tournament with grit, talent, and a legacy that’s tough to match. As of March 22, 2025, the Huskies are kicking off their 36th straight tournament appearance, facing Arkansas State in the first round today at 1 PM EDT at Gampel Pavilion. With a No. 2 seed in the Spokane 4 Region, they’re not just playing to win—they’re aiming to reclaim their throne after a nine-year title drought. I’ve been following their journey closely, and it’s clear this squad has the firepower to go all the way.
Coming off a stellar 31-3 regular season and an undefeated Big East campaign, UConn snagged their 30th conference tournament title on March 10, crushing No. 22 Creighton 70-50. That win marked their 12th straight Big East crown, and it’s no surprise Paige Bueckers walked away as the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player. She’s been a force all season, racking up AP and USBWA First Team All-America honors. Alongside her, freshman Sarah Strong is turning heads with AP Second Team and USBWA Third Team nods. This duo, paired with a healthy roster—a luxury they didn’t have last year—makes UConn a nightmare for opponents.
UConn Women’s Basketball: A Tough Road Ahead
The tournament bracket isn’t doing UConn any favors. They’re in the same region as No. 1 seed USC, which means a potential Elite Eight showdown with JuJu Watkins and the Trojans looms large. Coach Geno Auriemma, the winningest coach in NCAA history, shrugged it off in his classic style: “You go where they tell you and you play who they tell you.” That’s the kind of confidence you’d expect from a program with 11 national titles. Still, the Huskies aren’t the betting favorites—South Carolina sits at +270 odds, with UConn trailing at +275. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned watching this team, it’s that they thrive when the stakes are high.
Today’s game against No. 15 Arkansas State is just the beginning. Tip-off happened a few hours ago, and while I don’t have the final score yet, UConn’s track record suggests they’ll handle business. They were 29.5-point favorites in their Big East quarterfinal earlier this month, so an upset would be a shocker. The starting lineup—Bueckers, El Alfy, Chen, Strong, and Fudd—brings a mix of experience and fresh energy. Hosting Oklahoma State vs. South Dakota State in Storrs adds to the electric atmosphere at Gampel, where tickets were nearly sold out earlier this week.
Here’s a quick look at UConn’s key players making waves this March:
| Player | Role | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Paige Bueckers | Guard | AP First Team, Big East MOP |
| Sarah Strong | Freshman Forward | AP Second Team, USBWA Third Team |
| Azzi Fudd | Guard | Back from injury, ready to shine |
UConn Women’s Basketball: More Than Just a Team
What sets UConn apart isn’t just their wins—it’s the culture. Auriemma’s squad has been to the Final Four every year Bueckers has played in the tournament, and with her heading to the WNBA after this season, the clock’s ticking for that storybook ending. I love how they unveiled new jerseys before the tournament, with Bueckers saying it’s an honor to wear the UConn name. That pride fuels their relentless play. Off the court, their 136-23 NCAA Tournament record speaks volumes, and this year’s depth could finally break that title drought since 2016.
The road to Tampa’s Final Four on April 6 won’t be easy. If they survive USC, South Carolina or another top seed could await. But UConn’s offense, leading the nation in field goal percentage, gives them an edge. I’m betting on Bueckers to deliver clutch moments—she’s got that magic. Fans on X are buzzing about her leadership, and trending chatter shows the Huskies have the K-pop-level hype of an SMTOWN concert.
Final Thoughts
UConn women’s basketball is on a mission, and March Madness is their stage. Whether they cut down the nets or not, this team’s heart and hustle are undeniable. I’ll be glued to every game, rooting for that 12th title. Share your thoughts on the Huskies’ 2025 run in the comments below!