Third-seeded UConn secured a spot in the Elite Eight of the women's NCAA Tournament with a hard-fought 53-45 win against No. 7 seed Duke. Led by Paige Bueckers' impressive 24-point performance, the Huskies overcame their injury-depleted roster to reach their 28th regional final.
Despite dressing only eight players and utilizing a six-player rotation, UConn showcased resilience and determination, with Bueckers shining as the standout player on the court. The victory sets up a highly anticipated matchup against top seed Southern California in the regional final.
Bueckers, the 2021 national player of the year, displayed her exceptional skills after battling injuries in the past two seasons. Alongside Aaliyah Edwards and KK Arnold, who each contributed 12 points, UConn managed to secure the win despite scoring their second-fewest points in a March Madness victory.
On the other side, Duke's Oluchi Okananwa led the team with 15 points, while Reigan Richardson added 10. However, Duke struggled offensively, scoring only 13 points in the first half and facing a significant deficit going into the final quarter.
Although Duke mounted a late comeback attempt, UConn's collective defensive effort, led by Bueckers, prevented the Blue Devils from closing the gap further. Bueckers' clutch free throws in the final seconds sealed the victory for the Huskies.
Looking ahead, UConn aims to secure their 23rd Final Four appearance as they prepare to face USC. The matchup between Bueckers and USC's standout freshman JuJu Watkins promises an exciting showdown, with both teams expected to bring their A-game.
Despite the challenges posed by injuries and a limited roster, UConn's resilience and Bueckers' stellar performance have propelled them to the cusp of another Final Four appearance, showcasing the team's unwavering determination and competitive spirit.
For more updates on the NCAA Women's Tournament, visit the AP March Madness bracket and stay tuned for comprehensive coverage on AP News.
