The UConn Huskies women’s basketball team suffered a tough loss to theUSC Trojans on December 21, a game that showcased intense competition and high-level play. Despite a valiant effort by the Huskies, they were defeated 78-74 on their home court, leaving fans and analysts dissecting the outcome.
The loss came amid heightened expectations for UConn’s season, anchored by the return of star guard Paige Bueckers, who missed the previous year due to injury. While Bueckers contributed 22 points on 9-for-22 shooting, questions have swirled around her offensive assertiveness, particularly in critical moments.
One of the most vocal critics has been Maria Conlon, a former UConn guard and three-time national champion. During the December 24 episode of the “Husky Hoops” podcast, Conlon expressed concern about Bueckers’ role in the game’s closing minutes, drawing comparisons to UConn legends like Diana Taurasi.
“I don’t care if you can take over a game against Georgetown,”Conlon said, referencing Bueckers’ dominant 24-point performance in a blowout win on December 15. “The last two and a half minutes of the game, Sarah Strong wanted the ball and took over.”
Sarah Strong shines in USC clash while questions loom over Bueckers’ clutch role
Sarah Strong, a freshman forward, has been lauded for her aggressiveness in the clutch against USC, scoring 18 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. Conlon pointed out that Strong’s presence on both ends of the court made her the most assertive player in the final minutes, a role many expected Bueckers to fill.
In particular, Conlon highlighted a key sequence late in the game when Strong missed a crucial free throw and Bueckers secured the rebound.“If this is Diana Taurasi and she gets that rebound, is there any scenario on this planet where she kicks it out to Barbara Turner at the top of the key?”Conlon asked, suggesting that Bueckers lacked the “killer instinct” synonymous with UConn greats.
While Conlon’s comments have sparked debate among fans, others have defended Bueckers, citing her efforts to manage USC’s physical defense and noting that the rebound Conlon referenced came under heavy pressure. ESPN’s Mechelle Voepel has previously written about Bueckers’ leadership and adaptability, qualities that may still evolve this season.
For now, the Huskies will look to regroup as they prepare for their next matchup against Louisville on December 30. The spotlight on Bueckers’ playmaking will undoubtedly intensify, as the Huskies seek to reassert themselves as national title contenders.