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Summary:

The UConn women’s basketball team is facing a series of injuries that have shortened their bench and forced coaching adjustments. Several key players are sidelined, including point guard KK Arnold, forward Ayanna Patterson, and guard Caroline Ducharme, adding to existing injuries to Ice Brady and Morgan Cheli. While UConn managed to win against Providence, the lack of depth led to fatigue and uncharacteristic errors. Coach Geno Auriemma expressed frustration with the team’s lapses in concentration. They now face Seton Hall, a team with a strong offense, particularly from their backcourt. UConn’s defense will be key to containing Seton Hall, especially if they can improve on defending the three-point line. Despite the challenges, UConn aims to maintain focus and avoid a repeat of their sloppy performance against Providence.

News Article:

Injury-Plagued UConn Women Face Seton Hall Test

HARTFORD, Conn. – The No. 1 UConn women’s basketball team faces a challenging matchup against Seton Hall on Saturday at PeoplesBank Arena, compounded by a growing list of injuries. Coach Geno Auriemma is navigating a shortened bench with five players currently sidelined.

Junior point guard KK Arnold is out with a nasal fracture, while redshirt junior forward Ayanna Patterson is recovering from a concussion, both sustained in practice this week. Redshirt senior guard Caroline Ducharme remains day-to-day with a shoulder injury, and Ice Brady and Morgan Cheli are out with knee and ankle injuries respectively.

Despite the setbacks, UConn managed a win over Providence, but the lack of depth led to a season-high 21 turnovers and 19 personal fouls. Auriemma voiced his frustration, citing mental lapses as the primary culprit.

Seton Hall, boasting a strong offense led by guards Savannah Catalon and Mariana Valenzuela, and Jada Eads, poses a threat, especially if UConn’s Arnold remains unavailable. UConn’s defense will need to tighten, particularly on the perimeter, where they’ve been vulnerable to three-point shooting.

UConn (14-0, 5-0 Big East) is heavily favored, having dominated the series against Seton Hall (10-4, 4-1 Big East) for over a decade. However, Auriemma is focused on ensuring his team maintains focus and avoids a repeat of the sloppy play seen against Providence.

The game tips off at noon on Saturday and will be broadcast on FS1.

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