Newcomers Vie for Minutes as UConn Women's Basketball Prepares for Exhibition

As the UConn women's basketball team prepares for their 2025-26 season, they face a unique challenge: managing a roster with more depth than they've had in years. With 5 newcomers, including 2 transfers, the Huskies will have to determine how to distribute minutes in their first exhibition game against Boston College on Monday.

Head coach Geno Auriemma knows what he can expect from star guard Azzi Fudd and sophomore phenom Sarah Strong, but the rest of the team will have to prove themselves in the exhibition. The battle for the starting center role between redshirt junior transfer Serah Williams and redshirt junior Ice Brady will be a key focus, as Auriemma has consistently wanted more from the position.

Additionally, the Huskies' highly-touted freshman class, featuring No. 25 prospect Kelis Fisher and international standout Blanca Quinonez, will get their first taste of college basketball. Auriemma believes the pair have the potential to take on significant roles as the season progresses, though he cautions it may take time for them to fully adjust.

After missing most of the last two seasons due to injuries, redshirt seniors Caroline Ducharme and Ayanna Patterson will also be available to play on Monday. Ducharme is still working her way back, but Auriemma is counting on having her available this year, while Patterson's return from a long layoff could provide a boost for the Huskies.