STORRS, Conn. — When one looks around Gampel Pavilion, the numerous banners and retired jersey numbers remind us of the legendary athletes who have donned the UConn uniform in the past. Yet, it is rare to see freshmen walk into the UConn basketball program with such expectations as those facing Liam McNeeley and Sarah Strong.
Even before she stepped onto the court for her first college game, Hall of Fame coach Geno Auriemma expressed his belief that Strong, a 6-foot-2 forward, has the potential to significantly impact the future of the UConn program. This declaration comes from a coach who has worked with basketball greats like Rebecca Lobo, Sue Bird, and Diana Taurasi.
On the men’s side, Coach Dan Hurley emphasized the challenges ahead for McNeeley after losing four starters from last year’s championship roster. Hurley made it clear that McNeeley could not afford to ease into his college career. In his very first game, McNeeley showcased his talent by scoring 18 points and securing 10 rebounds against Sacred Heart, promptly proving his worth to the team. Meanwhile, Strong had an impressive start as well, scoring 17 points and snagging six steals against Boston University, as the women’s team marked another season under the 11-time national champions.
The dynamic between the two freshmen contrasts sharply. McNeeley, a gregarious 6-foot-7 player from Texas, often stands out vocally during game stoppages, especially evident during the Maui Invitational where the team faced defeats. In contrast, Strong, who began her basketball career in Spain and later moved to North Carolina, is more reserved yet equally impactful on the court. Both thrive under the pressure of competing at elite levels, showcasing their inherent abilities to rise to the occasion.
“They have shown in high school that they shine in pivotal moments and elevate their game when it matters the most,” Auriemma commented. “We do not expect every freshman to be ready to contribute immediately, but every so often, exceptional players like Liam and Sarah come along.”
Both McNeeley and Strong have stepped up in challenging circumstances. Strong recorded a notable 14 points, 13 rebounds, six assists, and five blocks against then-ranked North Carolina, while McNeeley scored 20 points in a tough match against Colorado at the Maui Invitational. The UConn men’s team recently faced No. 15 Baylor without their primary returning player. However, McNeeley rose to the occasion, collaborating with his team to secure a narrow victory during a pressure-heavy game.
“Coming to UConn, I knew it would be challenging, but that’s what I wanted,” McNeeley shared, regarding his choice to join the program. Currently, he averages 13 points per game for the 25th-ranked Huskies, feeling that he thrives in demanding environments.
Strong leads her team in rebounds and boasts impressive statistics with 19 steals and 11 blocked shots, averaging 15.6 points per game—only behind All-American guard Paige Bueckers in scoring. A significant draw for Strong to UConn was the chance to learn under Auriemma, who recently achieved the title of the winningest coach in Division I basketball history.
“He has an incredible understanding of the game and pushes us to excel,” Strong stated. “I believe this experience will enhance my skills and prepare me for the WNBA.”
In a recent game, as Strong took a brief exit from the court, Auriemma was quick to engage with her, providing specific guidance and feedback. It was evident that Strong valued this interaction, choosing to absorb the coach’s advice rather than deferring to an assistant, demonstrating her maturity and commitment to development.
“It’s crucial for me,” she explained. “I genuinely care about his insights as they aim to position me for success.”
Both freshmen are gearing up for high-pressure matchups this weekend. The women’s team will head to New York to challenge No. 22 Louisville in the Women’s Champions Classic, while the men’s team will undertake their first true road game against Texas. McNeeley and his teammates are eager to build on their recent success as they prepare for an upcoming clash against No. 7 Gonzaga at Madison Square Garden.
“We need to build on our recent momentum,” McNeeley noted. “We have significant games on the horizon and league play coming up, so maintaining this momentum is essential.”