New-Look No. 2 UConn Ready For Another Title Run After Humbling Final Four Loss

Geno Auriemma's postgame handshake confrontation with Dawn Staley after the Final Four loss stole headlines — and their rematch at Mohegan Sun Arena on Nov. 24 is already circled on calendars.
UConn, preseason No. 2, was upset by South Carolina in the semis, scoring just 48 points — their fewest in an NCAA Tournament game in 34 years.
Even with Azzi Fudd and Serah Williams headed to the WNBA, UConn returns AP POY Sarah Strong plus veterans and high-upside international freshmen (Popovic, Vukosa, Dursus), and chose to keep its roster rather than leaning on the transfer portal.