Geno Auriemma has a lot to prove after losing the Tennessee match. Though he talked it up as an inane rivalry, something that became bigger than it was supposed to be, the loss still affected UConn. After the Lady Vols disrupted their eleven game win streak, the Huskies have been rebuilding rhythm. Both their victories since then have been blowouts, and it looks like Paige Bueckers has found her groove again. However, trouble isn’t over for the Auriemma-led team.

Dark clouds loom over the UConn unit, as injury plagues the high-ranked team. Morgan Cheli walked out wearing a boot on her right leg during warmups, with the injury report confirming her absence from the game. This blow comes right after Ice Brady’s shoulder injury, which is expected to keep her off the court for about three weeks.

According to sources, Cheli has suffered an ankle injury on her right foot. The six-two freshman guard has seen limited minutes this year, but is an important piece for UConn going forward. When asked about a timeline for return, Geno Auriemma had to be the bearer of bad news. He said that there isn’t a timeline established on Morgan Cheli’s ankle thus far. The coach expressed hope for an idea of the injury by the next day.

The Huskies didn’t let this affect them, however, as they marched on to defeat the Red Storm decisively. During the 78-40 blowout, a breakout star was found in Auriemma’s time of need.

Azzi Fudd’s performance delights coach Auriemma

Against the Red Storm, Azzi Fudd showed her offensive flair in full force! The five-eleven guard put on an impressive three-point clinic, shooting 8-14 from deep. Fudd ended up with 34 points against St. John’s, on efficient shooting splits. POTY candidate Bueckers couldn’t be held either, as she lit up the floor on the defensive end for the second game straight. She recorded 4 steals and 5 blocks to add to her 16pts, 6reb, and 4ast.

In the post-game interview, coach Geno Auriemma expressed his appreciation of the two guards. When asked whether the duo’s aggressive showing is a good sign for things to come, Auriemma had a lot to say. “That’s the objective in sports, right? To be aggressive, to be the aggressor, to be the more assertive team. It’s been evident that when we are like that, a lot of great things happen for us when we come out like we did today.”

He continued. “Having Azzi do that makes the game very, very difficult for the other team.” Which is fair, considering that Fudd looked to be in an entirely different league!
“She was on a personal quest to try to be impactful every time she touched the ball.” Auriemma said.

The Huskies have not let up at all since their loss to the Lady Vols. They have shifted to another gear, and they aren’t slowing down! With Paige Bueckers’ incredible production on both ends of the court, and a breakout game from Azzi Fudd, UConn looks to be in a great place right now.