They were her role models, and she was theirs! A die-hard UConn Huskies fan, the 13-year-old Abigail Leah Zittoun is no more after a courageous seven-year battle with cancer. Abby, a true fighter in every sense, left a lasting mark on everyone she met, particularly the UConn Huskies women’s basketball team.

Born to Dan and Gwen Zittoun on May 8, 2011, Abby grew up with her sisters in Simsbury, Connecticut. But at the tender age of six, she faced grueling treatments: surgery, chemotherapy, bone marrow transplants, and more, after being diagnosed with esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB), a rare form of cancer.

However, despite this unimaginable pain, she was a happy child who loved life. “I always know what is happening with my cancer or the treatments, and I just try to distract myself to forget what is happening and focus on the future or what will happen later in life,” she said. 

Abby adored reading, building Legos, and drawing. She also had a huge passion for Marvel movies and fantasy football. But one of her biggest joys was watching sports—especially UConn women’s basketball. “I’m a really big UConn fan,” Abby said. “They have a really amazing team, and I love the way they always bounce back.”

The best part is Huskies players reciprocated that admiration turning into a heartwarming bond over the years. She first connected with them at Geno Auriemma’s charity golf tournament. Paige Bueckers, Caroline Ducharme, and even former players like Evina Westbrook were inspired by her strength.

As the 13-year-old battled her illness, she always said, “I’m really, really tough like them,” and in so many ways, she was. Her connection with UConn also extended to Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, where she received treatment. 

As an ambassador for the hospital, she worked closely with the Huskies at charity events. “She’s seen more than any child her age ever should,” her mother once said. Though cancer ravaged her little body, her spirit remained unshaken all her life. 

Gwen Zittoun said, “Like the UConn players, Abby is a role model, though she might not realize it. She inspired everyone with her bravery and grace.” And who wouldn’t agree? The news of Abby’s passing hit the UConn Huskies hard as they shared their feeling on social media.

Abby Zittoun: Forever in the Huskies’ Hearts

Caroline Ducharme posted a moving tribute on Instagram. In a carousel of pictures with the lil star, she wrote, “You changed my life more than you could ever know. I love you to the moon and back, beautiful. Keep smiling, watching Gilmore Girls, and rest in the sweetest peace, angel.” 

Paige Bueckers, who had built a strong bond with Abby, took to Instagram to express her heartbreak. In one story, Paige reshared Caroline Ducharme’s post, writing, “Forever our Abby💜.” In another story, Paige shared a touching photo of her hugging Abby, calling her “Our superwoman 🫶.”

It was followed up with another post with a bunch of pictures and a note, “Thanks for being a light and inspiration to everyone around you. Abby, you are strong forever.” Also, the Huskies guard Azzi Fudd shared Ducharme’s post on her Instagram, adding her own heartfelt message, “The sweetest soul🩷.”

The young one was indeed a beacon of light for these athletes. Whether meeting the team at events, taking pictures, or simply sharing moments of laughter, Abby became their “+1.” Although she may no longer be physically present, her spirit will continue to inspire the team for years to come. Rest in peace, Abby. You were, and always will be, their inspiration.