In Spokane, Washington, Paige Bueckers showcased her incredible talent by scoring a career-high 40 points, steering the UConn Huskies to a convincing 82-59 victory over Oklahoma. This win propelled UConn to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Women’s Tournament on Saturday.
Bueckers dominated the second half, scoring 29 points after halftime and turning around a game where the Huskies trailed 36-32 at halftime. Her previous record of 34 points was set during UConn’s recent victory over South Dakota State, which marked her final appearance at Gampel Pavilion as a home player.
The standout senior guard also matched her career record with six 3-pointers, including two crucial shots during a personal 10-0 run in the fourth quarter before she exited the game with 3:06 remaining and UConn comfortably up 80-51.
UConn’s coach, Geno Auriemma, praised Bueckers, calling it one of her best performances. “When you’re a senior and you’ve been around as long as she has, this is what you’re here to do. This is why you came here,” he said.
The second-seeded Huskies, with a record of 34-3 and winners of 13 consecutive games, are set to clash with the winner of Southern California and Kansas State in the regional final.
Along with Bueckers, Ashlynn Shade contributed with 12 points, while Sarah Strong recorded a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds. UConn is aiming for its 12th national championship, an achievement that has eluded them since 2016. This marks the Huskies’ 18th Elite Eight appearance in the last 19 seasons.
Bueckers expressed her commitment to the team, stating, “Honestly, we just wanted to keep our season going as long as possible. We all love playing together. We love playing here. We just love this program.”
Oklahoma, with standout Payton Verhulst scoring 16 points, had a strong season but fell short against UConn, continuing their series of defeats against the Huskies.
The Sooners initially took control with an 8-0 lead, but Bueckers’ 3-pointer ignited an 11-0 run that gave UConn the advantage. Despite a strong second quarter by Verhulst, who scored 13 points, the Huskies retook the lead after halftime, with Bueckers continuing to display her skill and determination.
Bueckers also made history by moving past Tina Charles on UConn’s all-time scoring list, an impressive feat considering she faced setbacks due to injuries in her junior year.
In the end, the Huskies demonstrated their determination to keep winning, with Bueckers leading the charge as they look to reclaim their position at the top of women’s collegiate basketball.
