The UConn Huskies lost their Sweet 16 game against the Ohio State Buckeyes, meaning they will not make it to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2005. Despite high expectations, the Huskies were hamstrung by multiple injuries throughout the season, including to star player Paige Bueckers and team leader Azzi Fudd. The pressure of maintaining their streak also seemed to play a role in their loss to Ohio State.
Despite outshooting Ohio State and winning the rebounding battle, the Huskies were overwhelmed by Ohio State’s offense and their aggressive defense. Ohio State went on a 17-0 run in the second quarter and UConn struggled to regain control of the game. They found themselves down by double digits at halftime, and despite a few moments where a potential comeback looked possible, Ohio State ultimately closed the door on their season.
UConn’s head coach Geno Auriemma acknowledged that the NCAA tournament can lead to unexpected results, both positive and negative. He also took time to reflect on the accomplishments of UConn’s dynasty in college basketball, pointing out that the streak they had established was an “impossibility.”
While UConn’s season may have ended earlier than they had hoped, Ohio State’s victory was a major accomplishment for them. After starting the season with a 19-0 record, they are heading to their first Elite Eight since 1993. As the tournament continues, it remains to be seen who will come out victorious, but the Huskies and Buckeyes have both left a lasting impact on this season.
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