I think some of this is a bunker mentality brought on with the covid situation. It couldn't have happened for Uconn in a better year than having 6 freshmen and no seniors. Hard not to bond with your teammates. coaches, and support staff when that is all you have. And great for our two foreigners - hard to be homesick when you are completely surrounded by best buddies.
Not discounting the personalities and chemistry which I think would have been great regardless, but add in lock down and it either explodes or it thrives - and it is definitely thriving.