Breana Stewart Leads UConn to National Championship Victory
By: Alexa Philip | April 6, 2025
Historic Victory After Adversity
In a triumphant closure to her college career, Breana Stewart helped the UConn Huskies clinch the national championship with an emphatic victory over South Carolina, winning 82-59. This marked a significant milestone not only for Stewart but also for UConn, as it ended a nine-year championship drought for the program.
The celebration was particularly poignant given the Huskies’ previous national title loss in 2022, where they had faced a devastating defeat against South Carolina. The occasion was bittersweet for Stewart and her fellow alumni, including Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi, who had sought to console fellow player Paige Bueckers after that historical loss.
Bueckers’ Journey Through Struggles
While Bueckers has had an impressive career, it has also been marred by challenges. Her freshman year was complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and her sophomore year ended prematurely due to significant knee injuries. Despite these setbacks, she returned to lead her team in her final season, ultimately achieving her goal of winning a championship.
Reflecting on her journey, Bueckers expressed that her experiences shaped her mental toughness. “The way that shaped us… how it shaped our beliefs, our mentality, and everything that happens because of that,” she stated, highlighting the resilience fostered through her hardships.
A Collective Journey
Coach Geno Auriemma emphasized the intertwining of Bueckers’ story with UConn’s legacy. “Our story is her story, and her story is our story,” he said, emphasizing their mutual journey through trials, health setbacks, and ultimately, triumph.
This victory is particularly sweet for Auriemma, who has dedicated over 40 years to coaching. He noted the rarity of championships in women’s basketball, saying, “It’s difficult to win.” The path to this championship was seldom easy, made clear by the injuries and challenges that plagued the team over recent years.
The Road to the Title
As UConn approached the national championship, the team demonstrated impressive synergy and performance. Bueckers had a standout tournament, scoring significantly and demonstrating her offensive prowess as she navigated through the pressure of the postseason.
Alongside her teammates, including a healthier Azzi Fudd and promising freshman Talana Strong, the squad found its rhythm, showcasing a remarkable blend of talent and support. “Most of us want to do it for Page,” Fudd said, referencing Bueckers’ determination and the team’s collective aspiration to secure victory together.
A Fitting Conclusion
After six years of ups and downs, culminating in this championship win, Bueckers was celebrated not only for her skill but also for her resilience. Auriemma remarked on the emotional significance of witnessing her success, stating, “Leading players like Bueckers to the title is the most satisfying thing for me at this stage of my life.”
The win for Bueckers and UConn is not merely a trophy; it encapsulates perseverance and the rich history behind the program. As she prepares for the next chapter, the crown she earned in her final game serves as a powerful crowning achievement to a remarkable collegiate career.
