UConn women's basketball aims for title with freshman Strong

Paige Bueckers and Sarah Strong are teammates at the University of Connecticut (UConn) as they prepare for the 2025 NCAA Tournament. Despite just four years between them, they come from different generations, highlighted by a playful exchange about their favorite cartoons. UConn is aiming for its first national title since 2016. The second-seeded Huskies will face No. 15 seed Arkansas State in the first round. Bueckers, known for her exceptional talent, believes that Strong, a 6-foot-2 freshman, is key to their success. Strong leads the team in rebounds, blocks, and steals and is second in points. Both Bueckers and UConn head coach Geno Auriemma have praised Strong's skills and her competitive spirit. Strong's background in sports is impressive; her parents were both athletes. This upbringing, along with her experience in high school, has prepared her for the challenges of college basketball. While she is less flashy than Bueckers, Strong has made a significant impact on the court. UConn has performed better with her and Bueckers playing together, often relying on their chemistry for scoring. Auriemma values Strong’s contributions highly, stating that she is more than just a single player on the court. As they enter the tournament, there is hope that UConn will perform well. Bueckers is expected to go pro after this season, making Strong's development critical for the program's future. The team is healthier this year, which should provide more chances for success compared to past seasons. With Strong's talent, UConn aims to make a strong run in the tournament.