UConn Triumphs Over Louisville in Historic Armed Forces Classic

In a noteworthy season opener, the top-ranked UConn Huskies secured a 79-66 victory against No. 20 Louisville on November 14, 2023, marking the first time women’s basketball teams participated in the Armed Forces Classic. Originally scheduled to take place at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, the game was relocated to the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, due to a government shutdown.

Sarah Strong led UConn with 21 points and nine rebounds, while Azzi Fudd contributed 20 points, continuing the team’s strong performance despite the absence of first overall WNBA draft pick Paige Bueckers. UConn has not lost a season opener since 1995, highlighting their consistent dominance in women’s college basketball.

Dominant Start for UConn

The Huskies wasted no time establishing their superiority, quickly building an 8-0 lead with Fudd and KK Arnold hitting early three-pointers. The lead expanded to 14-1 following a fast-break basket by Arnold. Although Louisville’s Laura Ziegler recorded 16 points and 18 rebounds, the Cardinals struggled to recover after trailing 25-9 at the end of the first quarter.

By halftime, UConn held a substantial 44-23 advantage. Although Louisville mounted a late effort, including a 10-0 run in the fourth quarter that cut the deficit to ten points, they could not close the gap significantly enough to challenge UConn’s lead. The game concluded without further drama, affirming UConn’s strong start to their title defense.

Other Opening Night Highlights

In other notable games, No. 5 LSU dominated Houston Christian with a decisive 108-55 scoreline. MiLaysia Fulwiley debuted impressively for LSU, scoring 21 points and securing seven steals. The Tigers’ defense was particularly effective, allowing them to close the first half with a 53-27 lead.

Meanwhile, No. 9 N.C. State edged out No. 8 Tennessee in a thrilling matchup, winning 80-77. Khamil Pierre led the Wolfpack with 21 points and 14 rebounds, while Zamareya Jones contributed crucial free throws in the final seconds. Tennessee’s Talaysia Cooper put forth a strong effort with 23 points but could not secure a victory in the closing moments.

In Ann Arbor, Michigan, No. 13 Michigan overwhelmed Canisius 100-40. Mila Holloway shone with 21 points, eight assists, and seven steals, leading a dominant performance that included forcing 45 turnovers.

Other results included No. 18 Southern Cal defeating New Mexico State 87-48, and No. 23 Michigan State achieving a record-breaking 125-39 victory over Mercyhurst. Maggie Doogan led the Spiders of Richmond to an 83-49 win over Mount St. Mary’s, showcasing her skills with 28 points and 13 rebounds.

As the season progresses, UConn’s strong opening performance sets a promising tone for their title defense, while other teams also display their potential in an exciting start to the women’s basketball season.