Ashlynn Shade is an unsung hero for UConn women's basketball: 'She is the heart of this team'

[Jonathan14]

Neither KK or Shade are going up on the wall. Either of them could throw on a Wisconsin uniform or Indiana uniform and they wouldn’t look out of place in my opinion.

But they are two incredibly important signings that occurred in the last few years. UConn was devastated by injuries. Every single player they signed was missing time. And then UConn signed these two and they gave UConn exactly what they needed. Two reliable and more importantly durable players that UConn could plug in for every single game. KK and Shade have been incredibly durable and are always available. They are not the superstars of this team. They are not the ones that deserve the lion’s share of the credit. But they are unsung heroes that all UConn fans should appreciate.

I think Ashlynn and KK are our two most important culture players because they serve as the connective tissue between Nika and Aaliyah and the post-Azzi era. Both were thrown into the deep end as freshmen and have responded with resilience, passion, hard work, and a relentless will to win and improve. In an age when so many players are chasing more money and more spotlight, they have always put the team first. They set the tone for the younger players and model what it takes to wear a UConn uniform.

 

[FanSince17]

I think Ashlynn and KK are our two most important culture players because they serve as the connective tissue between Nika and Aaliyah and the post-Azzi era. Both were thrown into the deep end as freshmen and have responded with resilience, passion, hard work, and a relentless will to win and improve. In an age when so many players are chasing more money and more spotlight, they have always put the team first. They set the tone for the younger players and model what it takes to wear a UConn uniform.

100% When this time period is partitioned off and written about, I agree with you, it starts with the 2023-2024 season. I love that team. So much came out of that. KK and Ash for sure. How about Paige having to play the 4. So, when she blocks a shot now, do you ever think back to that team. Definition of an underrated defender. Like Larry?

 

[Bigboote]

I think Ashlynn and KK are our two most important culture players because they serve as the connective tissue between Nika and Aaliyah and the post-Azzi era. Both were thrown into the deep end as freshmen and have responded with resilience, passion, hard work, and a relentless will to win and improve. In an age when so many players are chasing more money and more spotlight, they have always put the team first. They set the tone for the younger players and model what it takes to wear a UConn uniform.

I like the bit about culture. Two things: Ash and KK bring such different personalities, both of which have positive effects on the culture. KK is so ebullient, so in your face, always chattering. Ash is so steady, positive, and team-oriented. Both are necessary. It's like KK is the spinnaker and Ash is the keel, both necessary to win races. Geno is the rudder.

And almost every interview or Q&A, a player mentions how much everyone loves each other, how they love spending time together on and off the court. That doesn't happen without there being examples. KK and Ash are helping provide the environment/culture that's allowing this team to enjoy each other. CD provides some things for the players to do and enjoy, but it's up to the players to make it all happen.

 

[Pharos]

All of the above! Ashlynn is fun to watch. Love to watch her cutting and getting a perfect pass to lay in. Kayleigh also fun cutting to the hoop... : )