Dangerfield, Westbrook stay upbeat on surgical rehabs

WEST HARTFORD — The crutches were out Monday at Geno Auriemma’s charity golf event, as UConn guards Crystal Dangerfield and Evina Westbrook limped around among their teammates.

But while Dangerfield (hip) and Westbrook (knee) have been unable to practice as they have recovered from surgery, both said the process has gone smoothly to this point.

“Rehab has been great,” said Westbrook, a transfer from Tennessee whose eligibility for next season remains uncertain as she waits for a potential NCAA waiver. “I’m on schedule with everything.”

Dangerfield said she has struggled being away from the court, especially at a time of year when most players are improving their games.

But she said her summer development would come off the court, where she is expected to provide senior leadership.

“At first, it was really difficult because I obviously want to be out there with my teammates and everything,” Dangerfield said. “But it’s something I have to handle so I can be out there with them at 100 percent.”

Dangerfield underwent hip surgery on May 30, while Westbrook had her knee procedure on June 4. At the time of the surgeries, UConn estimated that both players would miss about four months, leaving them on track to return in plenty of time for the season.

Westbrook said it was strange to prepare for next season without knowing whether the NCAA would allow her to play, but that she has focused on learning what she can from her teammates and coaches. She said she was happy to have landed at UConn, which she chose for its long winning history.

“When you hear women’s basketball, the first thing that pops in your mind is UConn,” she said. “They’re always winning, and