Fudd, Strong Propel Revamped UConn to Victory Over Louisville

The UConn Huskies kicked off their 2025-26 season with a strong performance against the Louisville Cardinals on November 4, 2025. The Huskies, ranked No. 1 in the AP preseason poll, secured a 79-66 victory in the Armed Forces Classic held at the Naval Academy. This matchup marked the first women’s game in the history of the Armed Forces Classic.

UConn Dominates Despite Some Challenges

UConn showcased their prowess early, leading by 28 points at one point in the game. This win marked the Huskies’ 30th consecutive season-opening victory, solidifying their status as a dominant force in Division I basketball. The event was originally planned for Ramstein Air Base in Germany but was relocated due to a government shutdown.

Key Players Shine

• Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong combined for 41 points.
• KK Arnold contributed 13 points.
• Kayleigh Heckel, a transfer from USC, scored 14 points.
• Serah Williams, a Wisconsin transfer, started and added 4 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists.

Fudd, who was the 2025 Final Four Most Outstanding Player, expressed excitement about the team’s progress. She emphasized the importance of building chemistry as the season unfolds. Strong, a preseason first-team All-American, also reflected on her evolving role within the team, highlighting her versatility as a rebounder and playmaker.

Game Highlights

The Huskies started strong, ending the first quarter with a 25-9 lead. They struggled with long-range shooting, making only 4 of 26 three-point attempts, yet dominated the paint, outscoring Louisville 50-18 in that area. UConn’s head coach, Geno Auriemma, praised the team’s ability to maintain a significant lead even without three-pointers.

Late Game Tensions

As the game progressed, Louisville attempted a comeback, narrowing the gap from 25 to 10 points in the fourth quarter. Strong’s crucial baskets late in the game helped secure UConn’s victory. Fudd noted that while the team faced some challenges, these moments served as valuable learning experiences.

Looking Ahead

With this win under their belt, UConn is poised to navigate the rest of the season. Auriemma remained optimistic about the team’s performance, emphasizing growth over immediate perfection. The matchup against Louisville was UConn’s first season opener against a ranked opponent since the 2017-18 season, and the team continues to establish its legacy with a remarkable 7-1 record in season openers against Top 25 teams.