Azzi Fudd, a standout in UConn Women’s basketball, will not be able to participate in the remaining games of the 2023-2024 season due to sustaining a tear in her Medial Meniscal and ACL in her right knee. Reports state that Fudd suffered this injury without contact during a practice session.

The late Kobe Bryant once said, “Turn every setback into a comeback.” Azzi Fudd, the guard for the University of Connecticut, has embodied this narrative for most of her career. Despite the fact that UConn has recruited two No. 1 prospects, they have spent more time supporting each other on the sidelines due to injuries rather than on the court.

One of the most prominent programs in women’s college basketball has been dealt another crushing blow. First, Connecticut lost Paige Bueckers to a torn ACL for the entire previous season. Now, Junior guard Azzi Fudd will not be able to play for the rest of this year. Once a five-star recruit from Washington D.C, Fudd became just the 12th player, along with Bueckers, to sign as a No.1 recruit since 1998. This is a hard hit for a program that has endured numerous injuries over the past few years. She has been heralded as one of the most exceptional recruits in the history of women’s basketball. And indeed, she possesses remarkable talent.

What are the chances of the program losing both Bueckers and Fudd to ACL tears in consecutive seasons? For coach Geno Auriemma, he is saddened yet remains optimistic about her recovery and the future.

“We’re all just so upset for Azzi,” expressed Geno Auriemma. “She worked hard to be healthy for this season, and it’s unfortunate when you put in a lot of hard work and have a setback like this. Azzi loves the game and works tirelessly. I’m confident she’ll rehab with the same work ethic and come back better than ever.”

Regrettably, Fudd has had her share of injuries. One of the first girls to ever attend Warriors Steph Curry’s SC30 Select Camp, the former Gatorade National Player of the Year has confronted and overcome several previous injuries at a young age. While competing for the USA 18 and under 3 vs. 3, the UConn guard tore both the MCL and ACL in the same knee. With the Huskies falling short of winning a National Title against South Carolina in 2022, the program has not had a fair chance due to injuries since then.

Many may wonder if this signifies the end of the UConn Women’s basketball dynasty. As a fellow student and graduate of the University of Connecticut, it certainly feels that way at the moment. However, this is a team that has overcome numerous obstacles and is one of the most successful programs in NCAA history. Also, with the NIL deals, several athletes are not following the traditional paths of those before them. Furthermore, I would like to think that one injury does not determine the outcome of the season. For instance, the Las Vegas Aces clinched a WNBA Championship Title despite multiple injuries to star players.

Perhaps there is a glimmer of hope in all of this. Having previously experienced this injury, Fudd also has the support of Bueckers, who spent 369 days rehabbing her torn ACL. If there is one aspect this UConn team possesses, it is the ability to overcome adversity and display resilience.

In her third year with the program, Fudd has missed several games in her UConn career. Limited to 25 games due to a foot injury in her freshman year, the guard also missed time with various knee injuries in her sophomore year. In total, she has missed 33 games in her collegiate career.

There was much optimism for head coach Geno Auriemma and the Huskies after the return of Bueckers this season. After succumbing to Ohio State in the Sweet Sixteen, Connecticut was poised for a big year as they were initially ranked the No.2 seed behind LSU. Having already lost Jana El Alfy to an Achilles injury, coach Auriemma and the Huskies find themselves in a familiar predicament once again.

With a record of 3-2 this season, Connecticut will now have to depend on their star players Aaliyah Edwards and Paige Bueckers, both of whom are future WNBA draft picks. While irreplaceable, Fudd, who averaged over 11 points per game, will likely be substituted by Aubrey Griffen and Qadence Samuels. Just a month into the season, the Huskies now have the opportunity to have a fully healthy version of Bueckers. At this critical juncture in leading the team, Connecticut and Bueckers will once again have to draw upon their inner strength.

Having previously announced her intention to “stay” in Storrs beyond this season, should give Connecticut fans hope for Fudd. It is possible for UConn to make a run for an NCAA title, although it will be challenging both mentally and physically. A renowned shooter and a generational talent, this team will face its share of challenges without the guard.

If Paige Bueckers decides not to enter the WNBA draft, perhaps we will witness one full healthy season of stardom and partnership between these two incredibly talented women next season. As coach Auriemma stated, Fudd “loves the game and works tirelessly.”

We wish Azzi Fudd a healthy and speedy recovery.

The UConn Huskies, holding the 4th seed and boasting a record of 29-8 (13-7 Big East), the Miami Hurricanes, seeded 5th with a 29-7 record (15-5 ACC), the San Diego State Aztecs also seeded 5th with a 31-6 record (15-3 Mountain West), and the Florida Atlantic Owls, seeded 9th with a remarkable 35-3 record (18-2, Conference USA), are all in contention for the NCAA National Championship this weekend.

For the first time since 2011, no number 1 seed will make a Final Four Appearance. It marks the first-ever Final Four Appearances for the Aztecs, Hurricanes, and Owls. Despite UConn being the top choice, any of these four teams could spring a surprise. If you seek the prime betting odds for the Final Four, crucial information awaits:

UConn Huskies: -125 (Leading favorites according to online betting sites)

Miami Hurricanes: +450

San Diego State Aztecs: +400

Florida Atlantic Owls: +650

UConn Huskies: +2500

Miami Hurricanes: +7500

San Diego State Aztecs: +10000

Florida Atlantic Owls: +13000

Connecticut Huskies (UConn)

The last time the Connecticut Huskies reached the final four was in 2014 when they triumphed in the NCAA National Championship against Kentucky. Connecticut has made 36 tournament appearances, secured 6 Final Fours, and clinched 4 Championships. Starting the tournament at +2500, they impressed with a resounding victory against The Gonzaga Bulldogs, 82-54. UConn has covered the spread and the money line in all four games of the NCAA Tournament. UConn effectively held Saint Mary’s and Gonzaga to under 56 points each, hitting the under in those games.

Pros

The UConn Huskies rank 7th in the nation in rebounds per game, totaling 29.9 per game. Led by Forward Adama Sanogo, Connecticut excels as a defensive unit. The Huskies restricted Gonzaga to 54 points, a team that ranked 1st in points scored. Additionally, they limited Saint Mary’s to 55 points and are maintaining an average of 59.3 opponents’ points per game in this year’s NCAA Tournament. Sanogo is an exceptional glass cleaner, displaying relentless prowess on both ends of the court. This team is multifaceted, ranking 7th in the nation with an offensive rating of 116.7. UConn is a dominant force in the second half.

Cons

The UConn Huskies display frequent turnovers, with 48 turnovers in the NCAA Tournament. Dan Hurley and the Huskies need to find ways to minimize turnovers and reduce opponents’ free throw opportunities. UConn ranks 317th in the league, conceding an average of 15 points per game from free throws.

Miami Hurricanes

This marks the Miami Hurricanes’ maiden trip to the NCAA Tournament Final Four. Starting the NCAA Tournament at +7500, they registered an 88-81 victory over Texas. Under the guidance of Head Coach Jim Larranaga, the Hurricanes have covered the spread and money line in all four games of the NCAA Tournament. Moreover, three of their last four games have surpassed the Over. The Hurricanes are averaging 81.3 points per game and exhibit exceptional efficiency on the offensive end.

Pros

The Miami Hurricanes rank 21st in the nation in points per game, amassing 79.6. This is a team capable of efficient scoring from any position on the court. Miami ranks 42nd in three-point percentage, standing at 36.9. Spearheaded by Guards Isaiah Wong, Jordan Miller, Nijel Pack, and Norchad Omier, the Hurricanes are positioned 14th in field goal percentage, boasting 48.4. Miami showcases a remarkable 78 percent free throw success rate, ranking in the top 12 in the Nation. This team demonstrates adeptness in three-point shooting, inside attacks, and versatile scoring techniques. The upcoming matchup against the Huskies’ defense is eagerly anticipated. Notably, this team defeated #1 seed Houston and #2 seed Texas.

Cons

While Miami is an offensive powerhouse, their defensive capabilities fall short in comparison to teams like UConn and San Diego State. They have conceded an average of 70.3 points per game to opponents in the NCAA Tournament, positioning them at 236th in the Nation for points allowed (71.9). It is essential to note that statistics can be deceptive. The Hurricanes displayed strong defensive performances against Drake, limiting the Bulldogs to 29.2 percent shooting from three-point range. Furthermore, Miami restricted Indiana to 69 points and recorded 32 percent three-point shooting and 41.3 percent field goal success.

San Diego State Aztecs

This signals the San Diego State Aztecs’ inaugural entry into the NCAA Tournament Final Four. Despite being the first trip, San Diego State faced early exits in the last two NCAA Tournaments. Commencing the NCAA Tournament at +10000, they emerged triumphant against Creighton with a score of 57-56. Additionally, the Aztecs have successfully covered the spread and money line in all four games of the NCAA Tournament.

Pros

San Diego is a 5th seed that potentially went unnoticed in this tournament. The Aztecs rank 25th in the nation, conceding an average of 62.9 points per game. They exhibit physical toughness and have limited opponents to an average of 57.3 points per game in this year’s March Madness Tournament. Furthermore, they restricted Creighton, an outstanding offensive team, to 63 points per game, and Alabama to 64 points per game. It is noteworthy that this Aztecs team vanquished the #1 seed Alabama, regarded as one of the favorites to win this year’s NCAA Tournament. San Diego State has consecutively hit the under in their last 10 games.

Cons

Despite possessing a formidable defense, the Aztecs stand positioned at 183rd in points per game, with a figure of 71.5, and 153rd in three-point shooting at 34.7 percent. Guard Matt Bradley is the sole player averaging double digits in points, and the team’s field goal success rate stands at 44.1 percent. Their rebounding ranks 86th in the Nation, placing substantial reliance on their defensive prowess.

Florida Atlantic Owls

The Florida Atlantic Owls set foot in the NCAA Tournament Final Four for the very first time. Their sole NCAA Tournament appearance occurred in the 2001-2002 season, where they were eliminated in the opening round. Commencing the tournament with a March Madness betting line of +13000, they achieved an exhilarating win against Kansas State, securing a 79-76 victory. Additionally, the Owls covered the spread in three of their four Tournament games and clinched the money line in all four. Notably, FAU defeated one of the top defensive teams, Tennessee, with a scoreline of 62-55 in the Sweet 16.

Pros

Do not be deceived by the 9th seed status. FAU has demonstrated their worthiness of featuring in the Final Four. This team exhibits exceptional prowess, predominantly from an offensive perspective. The Owls rank 37th in the nation in points per game, accumulating 78. Furthermore, they exhibit adept passing abilities, especially with incisive cuts. Although not the leading team from beyond the arc, they display accuracy in crucial moments of three-point shooting. In terms of defense, FAU positions 45th in the nation for opponents’ points per game (65.1) and ranks 18th in opponent field goal percentage (40.2 percent).

Cons

FAU presents itself as a formidable contender, displaying a well-balanced approach on both ends of the court. Despite securing a point differential of +12.8, their largest point differentials were in closely contested matches such as a mere 8 points against Fairleigh Dickinson. Both triumphs against Memphis and Kansas State were won by a margin of fewer than 5 points.