As the current season began, the primary narrative surrounding UConn women’s basketball was their newfound health. Paige Bueckers had a productive offseason, Azzi Fudd was returning, and the Huskies were set to have a complete season to build chemistry and make a serious run for a National Championship in Bueckers’ final year.
However, this pursuit faced a significant setback on Sunday. During the second half of an easy victory over Villanova, a Wildcats player dove for a loose ball as Bueckers attempted to grab it. Bueckers’ left leg was unfortunately rolled up on, leading her to remain on the floor.
Bueckers was taken to the locker room but later returned to the bench. She appeared visibly upset as a trainer applied ice to her knee, and she did not return to the game.
There is some positive news for UConn supporters. After the game, head coach Geno Auriemma expressed optimism regarding Bueckers’ injury and her future status, as reported by Daniel Connolly of The UConn Blog.
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“She’s pretty good… She’ll be fine,” Auriemma stated, per Connolly. “She looks good. I’m optimistic.”
This news is encouraging for the UConn star, who has faced knee injuries throughout her career. During her sophomore year, a torn meniscus sidelined her for most of the regular season, though she managed to return just in time for the NCAA Tournament. The following fall, an ACL tear during a pickup game caused her to miss the entire 2022-23 season.
Bueckers made her comeback in 2023-24, guiding UConn to the Final Four, where they narrowly lost a tightly contested national semifinal to Caitlin Clark and Iowa. As this season commenced, Bueckers was viewed as one of the nation’s top players and a frontrunner for the No. 1 pick in the upcoming WNBA Draft, a status she has affirmed with impressive performances.
If Bueckers is indeed alright and faces no prolonged absence, UConn can breathe easier and continue to advance as one of the premier teams in the nation.
Image Source: Paige Bueckers @ Instagram
