Auriemma Will Guide Strong in 2026-27 Season
The UConn Huskies expect Sarah Strong to lead the team as the new season begins in November.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Basketball
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Coach Geno Auriemma is intensifying training for star player Sarah Strong ahead of the 2026-27 NCAA Division I women's basketball season. The program also added new talent in Jovana Popovic following the departure of Azzi Fudd to the Dallas Wings.
Why it matters
Auriemma aims to diversify the team's scoring options to reduce the reliance on Strong following major roster shifts. These tactical adjustments are central to UConn's goal of securing another national title run after their exit in last season's Final Four.
Sarah Strong averaged 18.4 points per game in 2025-26, while new arrival Jovana Popovic tallied 27.1 points per game in the 2024-25 season. These figures ground the team's offensive potential ahead of the season start in November.
The players
Geno Auriemma
He is the long-time head coach of the UConn women's basketball team and holds 12 NCAA Championship titles.
Sarah Strong
She is the reigning AP Player of the Year, Wooden Award winner, and Naismith College Player of the Year.
Jovana Popovic
She is a recent addition to the UConn roster who previously played for the Serbian National Team.
Azzi Fudd
She is a former UConn standout who moved to the Dallas Wings.
The details
Auriemma is focusing training on rapid shooting techniques and specialized tactical plays to improve Strong's efficiency. The team is integrating Popovic, who previously competed for the Serbian National Team at the 2025 FIBA Women's EuroBasket, to bolster the roster.
Timeline
Jovana Popovic played for ZKK Art Basket during the 2024-25 season.
Jovana Popovic participated in the 2025 FIBA Women's EuroBasket.
The 2025-26 season saw Sarah Strong lead the team in major categories.
The 2026-27 NCAA season begins in November.
Season Trajectory
The UConn Huskies are looking to avenge their 62-48 loss in the 2026 Final Four by integrating new talent and refining existing star performance. This strategic shift is designed to re-establish the program as a primary contender for the upcoming NCAA title.
Sarah Strong's improvement and the integration of Jovana Popovic will determine the team's ability to cover the scoring gap left by Azzi Fudd's departure. These adjustments are critical for fantasy projections and season-long win-loss expectations.
The takeaway
The UConn program is leaning heavily on individual development and international recruitment to maintain its elite status. Fans should watch for how quickly new arrivals adapt to the specific tactical requirements of the NCAA format.
What happens next
The 2026-27 NCAA Division I women's basketball season officially begins in November 2026.
Further reading
For more news on the upcoming season, visit the Basketball section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by EssentiallySports.
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