The University of Connecticut women’s basketball team has been a dominant force in the sport for decades, with an impressive streak of 111 straight wins from 2014-2017. With such a remarkable record, it’s natural to wonder what sets the UConn players apart from their competitors. Recently, several players shared their secrets to the team’s winning streak.
One of the biggest factors cited by the UConn players is their relentless work ethic. As senior guard Christyn Williams explained, “We’re always putting in extra work, whether it’s in the gym or watching film or doing recovery. We all just have that drive to be better every day.” This focus on constant improvement is backed up by the team’s grueling practice schedule; they practice six days a week, with two practices on some days.
Another key element of UConn’s success is the team’s strong sense of camaraderie and mutual support. Senior guard Evina Westbrook noted that “We all genuinely care about each other and we all want to see each other succeed.” This supportive atmosphere has helped to build a team culture where individual egos are set aside for the greater good of the team.
Teamwork also plays a crucial role in UConn’s success. Sophomore guard Anna Makurat explained that “We all know our roles and we all know what we need to do to help the team win.” This includes everything from providing strong defense to making smart passes to hitting clutch shots. By working together and trusting in each other’s abilities, the UConn players are able to consistently execute their game plan.
Finally, the UConn players emphasize the importance of mental toughness and resilience. As senior forward Olivia Nelson-Ododa put it, “We face adversity just like every other team, but we don’t let it break us.” The ability to stay focused and composed under pressure is a crucial asset in the high-stakes world of women’s college basketball.
While there may be no magic formula for UConn’s winning streak, these players have proven that hard work, teamwork, and mental toughness can go a long way in achieving success. As they continue to dominate on the court year after year, these lessons are sure to inspire future generations of basketball players.