Shortly after crushing Arkansas State 103-34, Paige Bueckers and the UConn Huskies have their eyes on an even bigger prize.
Bueckers continues to shine — not just as a frontrunner for National Player of the Year but as a potential all-time great in a Huskies uniform. And as UConn gets set to face the South Dakota State Jackrabbits next, basketball fans across the country are clearing their schedules for what looks like an exciting showdown.
When Is the UConn Huskies vs. South Dakota State Game?
- When: Monday, March 24, 2025, 8 p.m. ET
- Where: Harry A. Gampel Pavilion
- TV: ESPN
Fans without cable can stream the game on the ESPN app or through Fubo, which offers different subscription packages.
With Bueckers leading a strong UConn squad and the Jackrabbits posing a real challenge, fans can expect a game full of energy, skill, and drive.
Paige Bueckers and the Huskies’ Brilliant 2024-25 Campaign
As her time at UConn nears its end, Bueckers is playing at her highest level again after injuries affected her earlier in her career. The senior guard is averaging 18.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists while shooting 53.6% from the field and 40.4% from 3-point range. Her defense is just as strong, with two steals per game.
Bueckers already has plenty of accolades, including the 2021 Naismith Trophy, AP Player of the Year, and the John R. Wooden Award. She was the first freshman ever to win all three major honors, locking in her place in women’s college basketball history — no matter how this year’s tournament ends.
Led by Coach Geno Auriemma, the 2024-25 Huskies sit atop the Big East standings with a 32-3 record. Alongside Bueckers, the team features Azzi Fudd (averaging 13.2 points) and Sarah Strong, who’s been dominant in the paint with 16.1 points and 8.5 rebounds per game.
Connecticut is one of the top teams in the country in offensive efficiency, shooting 51.1% and averaging 81.5 points per game. Their defense is just as tough, holding opponents to only 51.3 points.
Bueckers’ Ultimate Gift to Coach Geno Auriemma
UConn has become a powerhouse in college basketball, with Auriemma building a legendary program, winning 11 NCAA titles, and cementing the Huskies as one of the sport’s most elite teams.
With another deep run underway, all eyes are on Bueckers to guide the team once again. But behind that pressure, she had a special surprise planned for her coach’s 71st birthday.
Auriemma turned 71 on March 23, but Bueckers had already shared her birthday gift days earlier during an appearance on ESPN’s SportsCenter. When host Elle Duncan asked, “Your head coach Geno is turning 71 on Sunday, what do you think would be the best gift for him?”
Bueckers didn’t hesitate. Instead of picking something fancy, she answered with one word: “A win.” While others might’ve gone for a flashy gift, Buecker’s answer said a lot about her leadership and focus. Now, the pressure is on to deliver that gift on the court.
