As Paige Bueckers nears the end of her remarkable college career, she continues to deliver standout performances, leading UConn through the NCAA Tournament. The Huskies, coached by Geno Auriemma, remain the most dominant program in women’s college basketball, though they haven’t won a championship since 2016.
After a 31-point performance against a USC team missing JuJu Watkins, Bueckers helped UConn secure a spot in the Final Four against UCLA. When asked about what sets this year’s squad apart from previous Final Four teams she’s played on, Bueckers acknowledged that while this team is younger, they compensate for inexperience with grit.
“We’ve got a whole lot of heart and toughness, and we play together as a team,” she told reporters.
She emphasized the team’s strong bond, stating that while past teams were also well-connected, the adversity they’ve faced this season has made them even stronger.
Having now reached four Final Fours, Bueckers has learned valuable lessons about performing at this stage of the tournament. Her approach is to focus on each possession without getting caught up in external pressures.
“The most important possession is the one you’re in,” she explained. “Everyone here is elite and here for a reason, so staying present and capitalizing on every opportunity is key.”
Auriemma echoed a similar sentiment, believing the team’s past injury struggles have strengthened their resilience. He credits the leadership of Bueckers and freshman star Sarah Strong, noting that their presence gives the team confidence.
“Our belief in Paige and Sarah gives everyone assurance that if they do their part, it’ll be enough,” the veteran coach said. “Every journey is different, every team is different, and each player gets to write their own story. At some point, I’m just along for the ride.”
UConn will face UCLA on April 4, with the winner advancing to play either South Carolina or Texas in the national championship game.
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