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Message: [QUOTE="Surly1, post: 5237523, member: 11599"] Sarah Strong is the most complete freshman in the country, and one of the best players in WCBB. Her performance on the court has been spectacular, but I would be remiss not to point out her transition was made easier playing alongside Paige and Azzi. Think back 4 seasons ago when the Paige Bueckers show arrived in Storrs. Geno handed her the keys to the engine. Along with the keys came exceedingly high expectations. Fortunately, the upperclassmen recognized Paige's talent and helped facilitate her leadership on the court, and accept her as the face of the program. NIL just started and its impact on the game has loomed larger year by year. While it has been beneficial to the players financially, it also comes with more requests and impositions on free time. I read an article in which Allison Feaster, Sarah's mother, stated she was grateful Sarah could play alongside Paige and Azzi, taking the weight of expectations off her daughter's shoulders. Sarah is shy, humble, blessed with amazing talent, content in the background. She didn't face the added strain of being the face of the program like Paige as a freshman. Recently, Azzi commented on the demands placed on Paige throughout her career both on and off the court. Part of Azzi returning next season is learning to assume more of a leadership role. Although Sarah came to UConn as the #1 recruit, media focus mostly centered on Paige entering the season. Most discussions began with the question if this is the year the "drought" ends. Talk about a pressure cooker opening. Fast forward to the Sweet 16, Sarah has largely been able to focus on basketball, while receiving a master class in handling PR duties & other off court responsibilities. As the season progressed, Paige and Sarah's chemistry evolved to a telepathic level as great recognizes great. While expectations for a NC rest on Paige's shoulders (per the national media), Sarah's role and performance is as vital as Paige and Azzi's in making it happen. [/QUOTE]

Verification: First name of men's bb coach

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