Although UConn is finally getting back to its best, gradually recovering from a tough period riddled with injuries, there’s still a missing piece. While key players stomp back to the court, it seems the Huskies will be one player short in their frontcourt strength—at least for a while. Geno Auriemma has hinted at some bad news for redshirt sophomore Ayanna Patterson.

On his recent radio show, Auriemma revealed Patterson is likely heading toward shoulder surgery after re-injuring herself in practice. “That poor kid can’t catch a break,” he said. “She’s been trying to play through that shoulder problem… There’s been an operation in her future, for sure.” 

If the surgery goes forward, it will be a season-ending procedure for the 21-year-old. Patterson hasn’t played a single game this season, though she had started warming up with the team before re-injuring her shoulder during practice. This setback follows another tough blow from last year when the sophomore underwent knee surgery in December for patellar tendinitis. 

Moreover, the Huskies coach mentioned how Patterson had battled the condition since high school, and after consulting with the medical staff, the decision was made to address it surgically. He expressed optimism for her full recovery, adding, “She’s such a difference maker when she’s on the court.”

Unfortunately, for the Huskies forward, injuries have consistently gotten in the way of her immense potential. Standing tall at 6’2 and brimming with athleticism, the former No. 4 prospect in the class of 2022 was expected to play an important role in UConn’s frontcourt alongside Ice Brady. 

But while Brady made her return to full health this season after dislocating her patella as a freshman, Patterson has yet to catch a similar break. Last year, she averaged 2.2 points and 2.2 rebounds across 30 games. While those numbers might not pop, her physicality and versatility make her a unique asset. 

“None of our other post players are like her,” the head coach emphasized. Patterson’s skill set, including her ability to thrive in the paint and contribute defensively, makes her an X-factor when healthy. For now, the chances of her return look bleak. In contrast, there’s also positive news for the Storrs program.

Geno Auriemma confirms Aubrey Griffin on the comeback trail

Senior forward, Aubrey Griffin is inching closer to her return. Auriemma recently provided an encouraging update, confirming Griffin is on track to rejoin the team before the new year. “That’s the plan, that’s the schedule she’s on,” he said when asked if the forward will return before the new year.

Griffin has already started participating in simulated games, and just recently, she joined a more intense practice session that excited everyone. “It was like a real game, no holds barred… She looked like her old self more than at any other time since the surgery,” Geno shared. 

But Griffin’s journey hasn’t been easy, either. Last year, during her fourth season, she tore her ACL in a game against Creighton, averaging 9.5 points and 6.0 rebounds. That injury came out on the heels of previous setbacks, including back surgery earlier in her UConn career. 

Despite these challenges, Griffin has consistently bounced back. With 110 games under her belt, she shoots an impressive 52.9% from the field. She’s also tied a program record for consecutive field goals in a game. But thanks to the NCAA’s COVID-19 rule, Griffin’s eligible to return as a fifth-year senior, giving her one last chance to make her mark.

So, it’s a mixed bag for UConn fans. While Ayanna Patterson’s future remains uncertain, the Huskies can look forward to the return of a healthy Aubrey Griffin. Until then, stay tuned for more updates, and let’s hope the next one brings better news for the redshirt sophomore.