UConn’s Sarah Strong Named Preseason All-American, Shines Bright
UConn’s standout forward, Sarah Strong, has secured a place on the Associated Press Preseason All-American team, marking another high point in her burgeoning collegiate career. This announcement coincided with her recognition as the Big East Preseason Player of the Year, establishing Strong as a leading figure in women’s college basketball ahead of the new season.
At just 19 years old, Strong is the youngest member of the five-player All-American squad, which also includes notable talents such as Hannah Hidalgo from Notre Dame, Madison Booker from Texas, Ta’Niya Latson from South Carolina, and Lauren Betts from UCLA. Her selection reflects her impressive performance during the previous season and her recent showing in a game against Boston College, where she scored 17 points on an efficient 8-for-11 shooting, contributing to UConn’s 84–67 victory at the Mohegan Sun Arena.
Geno Auriemma, UConn’s Hall of Fame coach, has long sung Strong’s praises. He remarked, “There’s just something about her right now,” highlighting his confidence in her ability to excel on the court. Strong, who entered UConn as the nation’s top recruit, has consistently exceeded expectations since her arrival.
Last season, she made an immediate impact, starting all 40 games as a freshman. She broke the UConn rookie rebound record and became only the second player in the program’s history, alongside Maya Moore, to score over 600 points in her freshman year. In the NCAA Tournament, she further distinguished herself by scoring a record-setting 114 points for a freshman and delivering a remarkable performance in the national championship game, where she recorded 24 points, 15 rebounds, and five assists against South Carolina.
As she embarks on her sophomore year, Strong is demonstrating significant growth in her game. Auriemma has noted her increased confidence and versatility, stating, “I look forward to practice just to see what she might pull off next.” This season, she has expanded her skill set, incorporating mid-range jumpers into her repertoire and establishing better chemistry with UConn’s guards.
Strong’s ability to control the boards remains a key aspect of her game, but she is also becoming a more dynamic player within the team’s frontcourt, sharing the court with Ice Brady, Ayanna Patterson, and transfer Serah Williams.
As the season unfolds, the spotlight will continue to shine on Sarah Strong. If her preseason performance is any indication, the rest of college basketball should prepare for her impactful contributions leading up to March. UConn fans are eager to see what the future holds for this exceptional athlete as she continues to carve her path in the sport.
