On this episode of Locked On UConn, we welcome Tee Baker, writer for The Next Hoops and basketball scout for Prep Girls Hoops, to discuss the state of the UConn Women’s Basketball team heading into a marquee matchup against USC. We break down the Huskies’ recent dominance, key injuries, and rising stars who are stepping up to keep the team on track. In addition, we preview the upcoming showdown with USC, focusing on Sarah Strong versus JuJu Watkins and what it will take for UConn to secure a statement win. Finally, we dive into a fun hypothetical draft debate—if underclassmen were eligible, would Sarah Strong go No. 1? Tee weighs in with his picks and thoughts on the future of women’s basketball.

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Segment 1: State of the UConn Women

We kick things off by analyzing UConn’s recent performances, including their record-setting three-point barrage against Iowa State. Tee Baker shares his thoughts on standout players like Sarah Strong, Ashlynn Shade, and Paige Bueckers and how they’ve kept the Huskies rolling despite injuries to Ayanna Patterson and Azzi Fudd. The conversation highlights the depth and adaptability of this UConn team, with contributions from Morgan Cheli, Allie Ziebell, and KK Arnold helping to fill key gaps.

Tee discusses how UConn has handled adversity and offers insight into which player has stepped up the most during this challenging stretch. The segment ends with a discussion on whether UConn’s depth can sustain their success into March.

Segment 2: USC Preview

The spotlight shifts to Saturday’s highly anticipated matchup against USC. Tee and Mark dive into what makes USC such a tough opponent, from the physical play of Kiki Iriafen to the star power of JuJu Watkins. UConn’s shooting efficiency and ability to handle USC’s size in the paint are identified as critical factors in securing a win.

The conversation also focuses on the marquee matchup between Sarah Strong and JuJu Watkins, exploring how this clash could set the tone for the game. Tee provides his predictions for the final score and key players to watch, while discussing how this game could shape UConn’s trajectory for the season.

Segment 3: Hypothetical Fun – Draft Debate

In the final segment, Mark and Tee have some fun debating a hypothetical WNBA Draft where underclassmen are eligible. Mark champions Sarah Strong as the No. 1 pick, citing her versatility, size, and potential to dominate the modern game. Tee weighs in with counterarguments for proven stars like Paige Bueckers and explosive players like JuJu Watkins and Hannah Hidalgo.

The conversation shifts to the evolution of women’s basketball and how players like Sarah Strong represent the future of positionless basketball. The duo also discusses which player from this hypothetical draft class is most likely to have the biggest impact in five years.

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