The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
Meet the Huskies
2 — Andra Espinoza-Hunter, 5-11 Fr. G: One-time teammate of former UConn guard Saniya Chong, Espinoza-Hunter could add a 3-point threat off the bench.
3 — Megan Walker, 6-1, Fr. G/F: National high school player of the year is gifted offensive player who should see significant minutes off the bench.
4 — Mikayla Coombs, 5-8, Fr., G: Drew comparisons to Kia Nurse for work ethic. If she practices with confidence, could earn valuable minutes.
5 — Crystal Dangerfield, 5-5, So., G: Coming off an inconsistent freshman season, speedy Dangerfield primed for breakout season as starting point guard.
10 — Molly Bent, 5-9, So., G: Incredibly hard worker who struggled with her confidence as a freshman. Minutes are there to be earned if she trusts her ability.
11 — Kia Nurse, 6-0, Sr. G: Some view starter on Canada’s national team as fourth scoring option, but if preseason any indication, an All-American season could be on the horizon.
15 — Gabby Williams, 5-11, Sr., F: Reigning National Defensive Player of the Year is as talented an athlete as UConn has ever had. She is looking to display more offensive versatility as a senior.
23 — Azurá Stevens, 6-6, Jr., F: Duke transfer can score from inside or outside, be an elite rebounder and a rim protector in her role as one of the top reserves.
24 — Napheesa Collier, 6-1, Jr., F: On a team chock-full of stars, the relentless and dynamic Collier was voted the American Athletic Conference Preseason Player of the Year.
25 — Kyla Irwin, 6-2, So., F: Earned praise from Geno Auriemma for transforming her body. Earning minutes in crowded frontcourt won’t be easy, but she certainly looks like a much improved player.32 — Batouly Camara, 6-2, So. F:
Kentucky transfer has been sidelined for much of preseason with knee injury, but when she returns, Camara will provide a physical presence off the bench.
33 — Katie Lou Samuelson, 6-3, Jr., G/F: Already with 197 career 3-pointers, she could become the first women’s collegiate player with more than 400 treys in her career. However, she is determined to show that she is more than just a sensational shooter.
34 — Lexi Gordon, 6-0, Fr., G/F: Praised by coaching staff for high basketball IQ, Gordon has been trying to adjust to speed of college game during practices.