In the season opener, second-ranked UConn's 102-58 victory over Dayton can be summarized by emphasizing two key factors: their strong bench depth and their formidable defense. Every player on the Huskies' roster saw action, with six of them contributing double-digit points. Aaliyah Edwards led the team with an impressive 23 points.
The Huskies showcased stifling defense, creating 21 turnovers and excelling in fast-break opportunities. In the postgame press conference, the team highlighted how their depth played a significant role in their defensive prowess.
Head coach Geno Auriemma remarked, "Our style of play today harkened back to our roots. What's fascinating is how the game dynamics shift based on the player combinations on the court. The defensive strategies we employ change with each substitution, and we made quite a few of them."
"I wanted to experiment with various lineups as much as possible, and I thought today presented an ideal opportunity to do so," Auriemma added.
Aaliyah Edwards, an All-American from the previous season, explained, "During the second quarter, we effectively pushed the tempo of the game. We capitalized on turnovers and defensive rebounds, which were pivotal aspects of our transition offense in this matchup."
Guard Paige Bueckers, in her first game for UConn since the National Championship game in April 2022, noted, "What sets this team apart is that we have a multitude of players who can step up as leading scorers on any given night without forcing it. We possess a diverse set of talents that can contribute to scoring, assisting, rebounding, and performing various roles."
UConn has set its sights on capturing its 12th national championship, commencing the journey with this impressive win. Their upcoming schedule includes a match against RV NC State in Raleigh, NC on Sunday, followed by a home game at Gampel Pavilion against #14 Maryland on Thursday, November 16th.