Azzi Fudd delivered an impressive performance in her last game at Gampel Pavilion, scoring 26 of her 34 points in the first half. UConn dominated Syracuse with a staggering 31-0 run, ultimately winning 98-45. This victory sends UConn to the Sweet 16 of the women’s NCAA Tournament for the 32nd consecutive year.
Fudd matched her career highs in scoring and three-pointers, hitting eight from beyond the arc. This put her just one three-pointer away from the NCAA Tournament single-game record, shared by greats like Purdue’s Courtney Moses and Iowa’s Caitlin Clark.
Sarah Strong contributed significantly, adding 18 points and nine rebounds, while Blanca Quinonez also scored 18 for the Huskies. UConn led decisively from the start, with a first-quarter score of 33-8 and a halftime lead of 65-12. Next, they’ll face North Carolina in the regional semifinals on Friday.
Syracuse struggled throughout the game, missing ten straight shots at one point and going nearly 10.5 minutes without scoring. UConn, ranked first in the AP poll all season, is now on a 52-game winning streak in NCAA tournament play at Gampel Pavilion, extending to 44 wins in Connecticut.
Fudd’s performance highlights a broader trend in women’s basketball where star players are reshaping the narrative. According to a recent report by the NCAA, there’s been a 20% increase in attendance at women’s games this year compared to last. This surge showcases the growing popularity and support for women’s sports. As discussions around equity in sports continue, players like Fudd are paving the way and inspiring a new generation of athletes.
For more insights into the impact of women’s sports, you can visit NCAA’s official report.
