Sarah Strong - A Generational Talent

[oldude]

It is fair to say that the term “generational talent” is overused, particularly when you consider that a generation is typically considered to come around every 20 years or so. A more liberal interpretation of generational talent in sports would be that an athlete is doing remarkable things at a level we’ve never quite seen before. By either definition, UConn WBB has had more than their share of generational talents. While some may disagree, I respectfully suggest that UConn has had 5 generational talents in the storied history of the program.

Diana Taurasi – The Italian-American kid from CA practically invented the Combo-Guard position. She was a 3-level scorer, outstanding rebounder and dime-dropping passer extraordinaire who stands as the most decorated player in the history of WBB.

Maya Moore – One of the most physically gifted players ever, who could guard or score against any player, regardless of position. In addition to the many team and individual honors that Maya has earned through the years, she continues to hold the top spot as UConn’s all-time leading scorer.

Breanna Stewart – Stewie is a unicorn; a 6’4” athlete with a 7’ wingspan who could protect the rim and score in the low post, equipped with a guard’s handle and the ability to knock down shots from the arc. Stewie, along with her 2 classmates (Mo & Tuck) lead the Huskies to an unprecedented 4 straight national championships, a record that will never be surpassed.

Paige Bueckers - One of the most efficient players in WBB history, Paige was the first freshman to ever earn NPOY honors. While her on court talent and achievements are the stuff of legends, Paige stands out for her perseverance, her selfless leadership and, perhaps as the very best teammate I have ever seen, someone who elevated everyone around her to achieve greatness.

Sarah Strong – The more that I watched Sarah play this past season, the more I was mesmerized by all the things she does really well on the court. Her calm demeanor and advanced skillset belie the fact that she is a freshman who just turned 19.

She is the best rebounder I have ever seen at UConn. All the little things she does to establish position, explode of the floor and come down with rebounds in traffic are next level. Her baby hook is a thing of beauty. She can knock down 3’s with defenders closing on her. Her hand quickness and anticipation make her a defensive nightmare whether she’s blocking your shot or picking your pocket. Sarah is also an outstanding passer who got better as the season progressed. Watching her and Paige carve up opponents in the 2-man game was exhilarating.

There were so many Sarah Strong highlights from this year. My personal favorite was during the Elite 8 game vs USC, when Sarah put Kiki Iriafen in the spin cycle with one of the prettiest layups that I’ve seen in WBB. The numbers she posted this year are Maya-esque for a freshman, and who knows, before she’s done at UConn, maybe Stewie, Mo and Tuck will have company from Sarah and her classmates with 4 national championships.

The very best thing about UConn’s latest generational talent is summed up by a remark that we’ve all heard Geno make on a number of occasions, “Right now, Sarah is the worst she’ll ever be.” That is a fact that should terrify the rest of WBB.

 

[Bone Dog]

The very best thing about UConn’s latest generational talent is summed up by a remark that we’ve all heard Geno make on a number of occasions, “Right now, Sarah is the worst she’ll ever be.” That is a fact that should terrify the rest of WBB.

My exact sentiment. And for the folks worried about where the points will come from next season without Paige, Sarah averaged 16 pts and 9 rebounds this season. I suspect those numbers will go up.

 

[jazz]

Her last 4 games against top competition, she averaged 20 and 13, and that includes 'only' 11 and 11 against Oklahoma. She also had a good number of blocks, steals and assists. IMHO, no disrespect to Azzi, she was by far, the best player in the Final 4. She was dominate!

2 games against SC, she averaged 20 and 14, two games at USC, she averaged 22 and 15.

These will be the minimum numbers she has in big games next year. I think she will essentially become unstoppable by next year. When I see Sarah, I think Charles Barkley.

 

[Kaizen]

Sarah is the #1 and Azzi may be the top 5 of the 2025-2026 women college basketball players.

 

[hoopsfan22]

Her numbers this season were helped by defenses sending 2-3 people at Bueckers, or 2 at Fudd. Next year defenses will focus on her, so her numbers will go up, but I'm not expecting a huge jump.

 

[cgshuskie]

Unfortunately or fortunately, hoopsfan22 doesn't account for Blanca Q next year. Because of Blanca, defenses won't be able to concentrate on Sarah alone. Sarah and Blanca and Azzi are going to bring havoc on WBB next year. Maybe #13. Also, there's Morgan, who may come into here own next year!

 

[Zonepress]

Her last 4 games against top competition, she averaged 20 and 13, and that includes 'only' 11 and 11 against Oklahoma. She also had a good number of blocks, steals and assists. IMHO, no disrespect to Azzi, she was by far, the best player in the Final 4. She was dominate!

2 games against SC, she averaged 20 and 14, two games at USC, she averaged 22 and 15.

These will be the minimum numbers she has in big games next year. I think she will essentially become unstoppable by next year. When I see Sarah, I think Charles Barkley.

i see little to
no comparison to Barkley

 

[Roundball fan]

How could you not love the smile. Priceless

 

[hoopsfan22]

Unfortunately or fortunately, hoopsfan22 doesn't account for Blanca Q next year. Because of Blanca, defenses won't be able to concentrate on Sarah alone. Sarah and Blanca and Azzi are going to bring havoc on WBB next year. Maybe #13. Also, there's Morgan, who may come into here own next year!

How many points per game does Blanca Q have against D-I competition?

 

[oldude]

How many points per game does Blanca Q have against D-I competition?

The same number of points that Sarah had before she showed up at UConn this past season.

 

[Geesworld]

Sarah is a one of a kind different. She is in the mold of a Maya Moore, do a little of everything well.

UCONN hasn't had a small ball lineup this good, since the days of Gabby Williams. Her ability too shoot, dribble and pass as a freshman Post/Wing player is second to none (Cheryl Miller) in all of basketball. Then her ability to block shots and play passing lanes on defense to create steals, along with the ability to guard all positions as Post/Wing. The most incredible part is her want to on the defensive Boards. She was a double digit rebounder against some of the best frontlines in the country as a freshman. She is a generational talent and she has done it without having the ball in her hands and not being the go to player.

Sky's limit for the young phenom .

 

[Sluconn Husky]

Her numbers this season were helped by defenses sending 2-3 people at Bueckers, or 2 at Fudd.

They were? I don't recall people sending two defenders on Azzi. The pick-and-roll game Strong and Bueckers all but perfected will be missed, however.

 

[AidanFan20]

I agree that Strong is incredible... During a game chat earlier in the season, I floated the possibility that Sarah might be better than Paige eventually, maybe even then (this was early in the conference season, before Paige became more aggressive with her offense; Geno was still trying to get her to take more shots).

Someone else in the chat ragged on me, with something like "How many games have you seen?" I said nothing at the time (btw, I've seen THOUSANDS of live high-school games, including most of Jason Kidd's).

Of course, Paige became the Paige we wanted to see a bit later... But I still stick to my opinion that Sarah was at times better than Paige... But not now.

Sarah might end up being The One, but the jury is still out.

 

[Bone Dog]

They were? I don't recall people sending two defenders on Azzi. The pick-and-roll game Strong and Bueckers all but perfected will be missed, however.

Indeed it will. Though I noticed Geno had KK making a few of those passes in to Sarah during the tournament. We'll see how good they get at it next season.

 

[NYCHUSKIES]

To me it's her maturity. The ability to be in games and one would never ever guess that she is a freshman. This is why Uconn doesn't recruit just any player just because they averaged 32 ppg in high school. What's more diabolic is that Sara hasn't even scratched the surface of her true potential. It's hard to pick if she is a better defensive player or offensive player. Her passing skills is top 3 in college basketball right now. She can score 26 points in a game and you won't even notice it because she operates like a thief in the night. A complete silent assassin just like Maya. How lucky are we to witness her greatness for another 3 years.

 

[hookshot]

i see little to
no comparison to Barkley

Sarah has better hands and perimeter shot, Charles better hops, but otherwise pretty close . They both a size 12

 

[Spaceman213J]

The funny thing is that during her senior in high school, some of her critics said she wasn't a 'real' number 1 prospect and that she wasn't a generational talent. And then she does things at the great program in women's collegiate basketball that some of the best women's players who have gone through that program never did.
Progression from Jana, Shade, K.K., Cheli and Ziebell may also help dictate how often she is double-teamed next year.

 

[Bone Dog]

I’m watching the Butler game from January 2023 — thank you @MJL243. It helps me think about Sarah (and generally what Geno looks for in bigs). This was an injury marred season with only one legit perimeter threat in Lou, but Geno had the luxury of a two-bigs frontcourt in Aaliyah and Dorka, with one sub in Ayanna. This is the group that almost upset #1 SC a few weeks later.

The Butler game is briefly competitive in the second quarter. But the second half belonged to UConn. What stands out is the type of game Dorka and Aaliyah play. They switch 1-5, they defend shooters on the perimeter, contest 3s, get steals and run the floor on the break. Aaliyah is so athletic that it isn’t really surprising to see her run the floor in transition. But Dorka is equally impressive in getting steals from smaller players and taking the ball the length of the floor with it.

This is exactly the sort of game Sarah is built for. She brings a more diversified offensive skill set than either Dorka or Aaliyah. But she must have seen games like this one before she came to Storrs and recognized immediately how she could fit into Geno’s schemes.

The other thing that really catches my eye in this game is the simple intensity Dorka brings. She dives for loose balls, she guards shooters out past the 3pt line, she runs the floor on the break. When I watch traditional post players like Betts or Beers I see very little of this. They are better low post scorers than Dorka, and probably better shot blockers and rebounders. But in every other way Dorka is the superior player, and the better fit for Geno’s style of play.

Try to picture Betts or Beers defending at the perimeter, or getting a steal on a high hedge, or leading the break. It’s not like they couldn’t do those things. But that’s not where their strengths lie. This is exactly where Sarah’s strengths are, and it’s what Geno wants to see. If Serah is willing to play like Dorka or Aaliyah, then I’d love to see her at Storrs. Otherwise, not so much.

Next season, if Ayanna can return to form, she can be an excellent pairing for Sarah. Same for Caroline. And if Blanca is as good as some of us think she is, she’ll be an awesome partner. And in all likelihood so can Serah, if she wants to be.

 

[Zonepress]

Sarah has better hands and perimeter shot, Charles better hops, but otherwise pretty close . They both a size

I think you’re pretty well made my point!!

 

[hookshot]

I’m watching the Butler game from January 2023 — thank you @MJL243. It helps me think about Sarah (and generally what Geno looks for in bigs). This was an injury marred season with only one legit perimeter threat in Lou, but Geno had the luxury of a two-bigs frontcourt in Aaliyah and Dorka, with one sub in Ayanna. This is the group that almost upset #1 SC a few weeks later.

The Butler game is briefly competitive in the second quarter. But the second half belonged to UConn. What stands out is the type of game Dorka and Aaliyah play. They switch 1-5, they defend shooters on the perimeter, contest 3s, get steals and run the floor on the break. Aaliyah is so athletic that it isn’t really surprising to see her run the floor in transition. But Dorka is equally impressive in getting steals from smaller players and taking the ball the length of the floor with it.

This is exactly the sort of game Sarah is built for. She brings a more diversified offensive skill set than either Dorka or Aaliyah. But she must have seen games like this one before she came to Storrs and recognized immediately how she could fit into Geno’s schemes.

The other thing that really catches my eye in this game is the simple intensity Dorka brings. She dives for loose balls, she guards shooters out past the 3pt line, she runs the floor on the break. When I watch traditional post players like Betts or Beers I see very little of this. They are better low post scorers than Dorka, and probably better shot blockers and rebounders. But in every other way Dorka is the superior player, and the better fit for Geno’s style of play.

Try to picture Betts or Beers defending at the perimeter, or getting a steal on a high hedge, or leading the break. It’s not like they couldn’t do those things. But that’s not where their strengths lie. This is exactly where Sarah’s strengths are, and it’s what Geno wants to see. If Serah is willing to play like Dorka or Aaliyah, then I’d love to see her at Storrs. Otherwise, not so much.

Next season, if Ayanna can return to form, she can be an excellent pairing for Sarah. Same for Caroline. And if Blanca is as good as some of us think she is, she’ll be an awesome partner. And in all likelihood so can Serah, if she wants to be.

Only thing is, Ayanna "form" never had developed an offensive repertoire (beyond rebounding and scrapping) whereas the others have, so her role and usage remains to be seen but valuable depth at the least

 

[my2cents]

If Sarah is not the pre-season consensus Player of the Year, it's only because the media does not want to give any credit to UConn.
I would have liked to be in Geno's office last fall, after a practice when he said to the other coaches, "Holy Shit, Sarah might be the best player in college basketball."
We are totally spoiled as UConn fans that we get to see the best players EVER in college basketball history, in their formative years at UConn.

 

[Bone Dog]

Only thing is, Ayanna "form" never had developed an offensive repertoire (beyond rebounding and scrapping) whereas the others have, so her role and usage remains to be seen but valuable depth at the least

This is more or less true. The problem is we’ve seen so little of her game.

In the games we did get to see, Ayanna was an immovable object in the low post on defense, a fierce rebounder, scored mainly on putbacks, had quick feet and she ran the floor well for a big. And she can finish at the rim in transition.

But she has no midrange game in the halfcourt offense to speak of. She is not an equivalent talent to what Aaliyah was. Or even what Kiah Stokes was, though she might be able to develop similarly over the next couple seasons.

Still, if she merely begins in the same place she did freshman year this fall, but avoids injury, she may provide valuable post depth and maybe even an anchor for the small-ball lineup next to Sarah. Plus, she has some understanding of Geno’s schemes that could be invaluable.

 

[Skeets]

I agree that Strong is incredible... During a game chat earlier in the season, I floated the possibility that Sarah might be better than Paige eventually, maybe even then (this was early in the conference season, before Paige became more aggressive with her offense; Geno was still trying to get her to take more shots).

Someone else in the chat ragged on me, with something like "How many games have you seen?" I said nothing at the time (btw, I've seen THOUSANDS of live high-school games, including most of Jason Kidd's).

Of course, Paige became the Paige we wanted to see a bit later... But I still stick to my opinion that Sarah was at times better than Paige... But not now.

Sarah might end up being The One, but the jury is still out.

3 years from now we could be having an interesting (heated) argument over who the 4 people are on the mountain. Right now the 4th is Paige. But 3 years from now who stays and who goes (if anyone) could be a point of discussion.

 

[HuskyNan]

How many points per game does Blanca Q have against D-I competition?

None. Do you want us to calculate how many points she has vs WNBA players instead?

 

[Calbysdad]

It is fair to say that the term “generational talent” is overused, particularly when you consider that a generation is typically considered to come around every 20 years or so. A more liberal interpretation of generational talent in sports would be that an athlete is doing remarkable things at a level we’ve never quite seen before. By either definition, UConn WBB has had more than their share of generational talents. While some may disagree, I respectfully suggest that UConn has had 5 generational talents in the storied history of the program.

Diana Taurasi – The Italian-American kid from CA practically invented the Combo-Guard position. She was a 3-level scorer, outstanding rebounder and dime-dropping passer extraordinaire who stands as the most decorated player in the history of WBB.

Maya Moore – One of the most physically gifted players ever, who could guard or score against any player, regardless of position. In addition to the many team and individual honors that Maya has earned through the years, she continues to hold the top spot as UConn’s all-time leading scorer.

Breanna Stewart – Stewie is a unicorn; a 6’4” athlete with a 7’ wingspan who could protect the rim and score in the low post, equipped with a guard’s handle and the ability to knock down shots from the arc. Stewie, along with her 2 classmates (Mo & Tuck) lead the Huskies to an unprecedented 4 straight national championships, a record that will never be surpassed.

Paige Bueckers - One of the most efficient players in WBB history, Paige was the first freshman to ever earn NPOY honors. While her on court talent and achievements are the stuff of legends, Paige stands out for her perseverance, her selfless leadership and, perhaps as the very best teammate I have ever seen, someone who elevated everyone around her to achieve greatness.

Sarah Strong – The more that I watched Sarah play this past season, the more I was mesmerized by all the things she does really well on the court. Her calm demeanor and advanced skillset belie the fact that she is a freshman who just turned 19.

She is the best rebounder I have ever seen at UConn. All the little things she does to establish position, explode of the floor and come down with rebounds in traffic are next level. Her baby hook is a thing of beauty. She can knock down 3’s with defenders closing on her. Her hand quickness and anticipation make her a defensive nightmare whether she’s blocking your shot or picking your pocket. Sarah is also an outstanding passer who got better as the season progressed. Watching her and Paige carve up opponents in the 2-man game was exhilarating.

There were so many Sarah Strong highlights from this year. My personal favorite was during the Elite 8 game vs USC, when Sarah put Kiki Iriafen in the spin cycle with one of the prettiest layups that I’ve seen in WBB. The numbers she posted this year are Maya-esque for a freshman, and who knows, before she’s done at UConn, maybe Stewie, Mo and Tuck will have company from Sarah and her classmates with 4 national championships.

The very best thing about UConn’s latest generational talent is summed up by a remark that we’ve all heard Geno make on a number of occasions, “Right now, Sarah is the worst she’ll ever be.” That is a fact that should terrify the rest of WBB.

Nailed it! Unless you get super technical and throw in an Elena Delle Donne - oh, what could have been...

 

[meyers7]

i see little to
no comparison to Barkley

Prolly need to open your eyes a bit more.

I hadn't thought of it, but it's a pretty good comparison. Similar strength and technique. Ability to rebound, finish at the rim and run the floor, defend. Both undersized at PF.

Now 3 pt shooting and personality, yeah they differ there. And of course 40 years apart.

 

[Zonepress]

Prolly need to open your eyes a bit more.

I hadn't thought of it, but it's a pretty good comparison. Similar strength and technique. Ability to rebound, finish at the rim and run the floor, defend. Both undersized at PF.

Now 3 pt shooting and personality, yeah they differ there. And of course 40 years apart.

my eyes are quite open
i see no comparison in techingue
CB game was solely based on power quickness
and strength
what sets SS apart is her “skills” and “feet”
for the game
the comparison seems to be a lazy take as they
have similar physique

 

[Stagnant]

If Sarah is not the pre-season consensus Player of the Year, it's only because the media does not want to give any credit to UConn.
I would have liked to be in Geno's office last fall, after a practice when he said to the other coaches, "Holy , Sarah might be the best player in college basketball."
We are totally spoiled as UConn fans that we get to see the best players EVER in college basketball history, in their formative years at UConn.

I think it will be Hidalgo or Betts. But Strong should be preseason first team. Those are the only two that should get preseason player of the year votes over her.

 

[oldude]

I think it will be Hidalgo or Betts. But Strong should be preseason first team. Those are the only two that should get preseason player of the year votes over her.

Betts most likely over Sarah. Hidalgo had a rough finish to the season. But if you had to pick one of the 3 to start your team with, it would be Sarah hands down.

 

[MooseJaw]

It is fair to say that the term “generational talent” is overused, particularly when you consider that a generation is typically considered to come around every 20 years or so. A more liberal interpretation of generational talent in sports would be that an athlete is doing remarkable things at a level we’ve never quite seen before. By either definition, UConn WBB has had more than their share of generational talents. While some may disagree, I respectfully suggest that UConn has had 5 generational talents in the storied history of the program.

Diana Taurasi – The Italian-American kid from CA practically invented the Combo-Guard position. She was a 3-level scorer, outstanding rebounder and dime-dropping passer extraordinaire who stands as the most decorated player in the history of WBB.

Maya Moore – One of the most physically gifted players ever, who could guard or score against any player, regardless of position. In addition to the many team and individual honors that Maya has earned through the years, she continues to hold the top spot as UConn’s all-time leading scorer.

Breanna Stewart – Stewie is a unicorn; a 6’4” athlete with a 7’ wingspan who could protect the rim and score in the low post, equipped with a guard’s handle and the ability to knock down shots from the arc. Stewie, along with her 2 classmates (Mo & Tuck) lead the Huskies to an unprecedented 4 straight national championships, a record that will never be surpassed.

Paige Bueckers - One of the most efficient players in WBB history, Paige was the first freshman to ever earn NPOY honors. While her on court talent and achievements are the stuff of legends, Paige stands out for her perseverance, her selfless leadership and, perhaps as the very best teammate I have ever seen, someone who elevated everyone around her to achieve greatness.

Sarah Strong – The more that I watched Sarah play this past season, the more I was mesmerized by all the things she does really well on the court. Her calm demeanor and advanced skillset belie the fact that she is a freshman who just turned 19.

She is the best rebounder I have ever seen at UConn. All the little things she does to establish position, explode of the floor and come down with rebounds in traffic are next level. Her baby hook is a thing of beauty. She can knock down 3’s with defenders closing on her. Her hand quickness and anticipation make her a defensive nightmare whether she’s blocking your shot or picking your pocket. Sarah is also an outstanding passer who got better as the season progressed. Watching her and Paige carve up opponents in the 2-man game was exhilarating.

There were so many Sarah Strong highlights from this year. My personal favorite was during the Elite 8 game vs USC, when Sarah put Kiki Iriafen in the spin cycle with one of the prettiest layups that I’ve seen in WBB. The numbers she posted this year are Maya-esque for a freshman, and who knows, before she’s done at UConn, maybe Stewie, Mo and Tuck will have company from Sarah and her classmates with 4 national championships.

The very best thing about UConn’s latest generational talent is summed up by a remark that we’ve all heard Geno make on a number of occasions, “Right now, Sarah is the worst she’ll ever be.” That is a fact that should terrify the rest of WBB.

As usual Oldude I'm on board with your post. I will hold back just a titch on enshrining her as generational. She has shown every attribute you have mentioned and seems on the brink of super stardom. I however I will wait until at least another year of watching her play before I put her in the class of 5 you have her in. No slight, just a tiny pinch of caution, so many things can happen to derail any train, and it appears the Sarah train is highballing it down the tracks. Yes, Sarah the player with hands like a chameleon's tongue. The player who gets her sticky mitts on the ball and it's hers until she releases it, a three-level scoring machine, a thief on the court. Our shy smiling assassin. I will wait another season before I put her on the mountain, but the young lady is just a nudge away.