No. 2 UConn women upset at unranked NC State, 92-81

In an NCAA Tournament Elite Eight game in 1998, the UConn women’s basketball team suffered a loss to NC State for the first time in more than two decades, sending the late coach Kay Yow to her first and only Final Four.

Fast forward to present day – in a sold-out Reynolds Coliseum, the Wolfpack secured another victory against UConn, disregarding the return of Paige Bueckers and the Huskies’ impressive record. Despite being the No. 2 team in the country, UConn was defeated by unranked NC State with a score of 92-81.

Notably, Saniya Rivers, who previously played for the South Carolina team that secured a national championship, delivered a stellar performance with 33 points, leading NC State to their victory. UConn’s Bueckers and Aaliyah Edwards contributed 27 and 21 points, respectively, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win for the Huskies.

Reflecting on the defeat, UConn coach Geno Auriemma acknowledged the strength of the NC State team and expressed disappointment in UConn’s performance, particularly in terms of rebounding and engagement on the court.

The game saw NC State taking the lead in the second quarter after a series of impressive plays, eventually resulting in a 92-81 victory over UConn. With the crowd rallying behind them, the Wolfpack’s performance on both ends of the court led to a landslide win.

The defeat marked the first time UConn had lost to an unranked team since the Huskies’ loss to St. John’s the previous February. Auriemma highlighted the need for improvement in UConn’s overall game strategy and performance following the unexpected loss to NC State.

Overall, the game showcased the unwavering determination and skill of the Wolfpack, marking a significant milestone in their basketball journey. While UConn faced a setback, the competitive spirit of both teams ignited excitement among fans and players alike.