Storrs, CT – University of Connecticut (UConn) Huskies star Paige Bueckers put on a show for the ages, scoring a career-high 32 points in an 85-63 thrashing of the Baylor Lady Bears. The sold-out crowd at Gampel Pavilion witnessed Bueckers’ masterclass performance, solidifying her status as one of the nation’s top collegiate players.
Game Recap
The Huskies (12-1) dominated from the opening tip, with Bueckers setting the tone early. She scored 15 points in the first quarter, including three three-pointers, to give UConn a 25-12 lead.
Baylor (10-3) trimmed the deficit to 42-36 at halftime, but Bueckers and the Huskies pulled away in the third quarter. Bueckers added 10 more points, and UConn outscored Baylor 25-12 in the period.
Final Statistics
1. Paige Bueckers: 32 points (12-19 FG, 4-7 3PT, 4-4 FT), 5 rebounds, 4 assists
2. Azzi Fudd: 18 points (7-14 FG, 2-4 3PT), 4 rebounds
3. Aaliyah Edwards: 14 points (6-10 FG), 8 rebounds
Post-Game Reaction
“Paige was incredible tonight,” UConn head coach Geno Auriemma said. “She’s been working hard to get back to this level, and it’s great to see her have this kind of performance.”
“I was just trying to stay aggressive and take what the defense gave me,” Bueckers said. “My teammates were finding me in great positions, and I was able to knock down shots.”
Bueckers’ Brilliance
The sophomore guard’s career-high performance highlighted her:
1. Improved Shooting: Bueckers shot 63.2% from the field and 57.1% from three-point range.
2. Playmaking Ability: She added four assists, showcasing her exceptional court vision.
3. Clutch Gene: Bueckers scored 10 points in the fourth quarter to seal the win.
National Implications
UConn’s victory over Baylor has significant implications:
1. Rankings: The Huskies solidified their No. 2 ranking in the AP Poll.
2. NCAA Tournament Seeding: UConn strengthened its case for a No. 1 seed.
3. Conference Dominance: The Huskies remain undefeated in the Big East Conference.
Upcoming Challenges
UConn faces:
1. Tennessee (Jan. 26)
2. NC State (Feb. 2)
3. Louisville (Feb. 13)
“We’re excited for the next challenge,” Bueckers said. “We need to stay focused and keep improving.”
Bueckers’ Legacy
Paige Bueckers continues to build her legacy as one of UConn’s all-time greats:
1. Awards and Accolades: Bueckers has earned multiple Player of the Week honors and is a frontrunner for the Wade Trophy.
2. Record-Breaking: She’s on pace to break UConn’s single-season scoring record.
3. Leadership: Bueckers has become the Huskies’ undisputed leader, guiding her team to victories.
Paige Bueckers’ 32-point performance against Baylor cemented her status as a national player of the year candidate. As UConn continues its pursuit of a 12th national championship, Bueckers’ brilliance will be crucial.
