UConn Huskies

UConn’s Dominance: A Look at the Huskies’ Unstoppable Run and the State of Women’s College Basketball

As of February 19, 2026, No. 1 UConn stands as the lone undefeated team in women’s college basketball. The Huskies have been on a tear, extending their win streak to 44 games – tied for the seventh-longest in Division I history. Their recent victories include a 50-point win over Creighton (94-44 on February 11), a 71-56 defeat of Marquette on Valentine’s Day, and an 83-69 win against Villanova on February 18.

The Huskies’ Path to Perfection

UConn’s success isn’t happening against weak competition. Their schedule is ranked as the 11th-toughest in the nation according to the NET ranking system. A key moment came against No. 15 Tennessee, a team that handed UConn their last loss in February 2025. This time, the Huskies secured a dominant 30-point victory, signaling a shift in momentum.

Challenges Ahead: A Grueling Stretch

Despite their current form, UConn faces a challenging stretch of games. They have four games scheduled in 12 days and five in 16, including road trips to Marquette and Villanova, and a home game against Providence. The road presents a significant hurdle, testing the Huskies’ endurance, and consistency.

The Other Side of the Spectrum: Teams Still Searching for a Win

While UConn thrives, several teams are still striving for their first win of the season. The article does not specify which teams are currently winless.

What UConn’s Success Means for the Future of the Game

UConn’s continued dominance raises questions about the competitive balance in women’s college basketball. Their ability to consistently recruit top talent and develop players is a major factor. The Huskies’ current streak highlights the challenges other programs face in closing the gap.

The Impact of Scheduling

The NET ranking system demonstrates the importance of strength of schedule. UConn’s willingness to play tough opponents has seemingly prepared them for success. Other programs may demand to prioritize challenging non-conference matchups to improve their postseason prospects.

The Big East Conference’s Rising Profile

UConn’s presence elevates the profile of the Big East Conference. Their success draws attention to the league and its other competitive programs, like Villanova and Marquette. A strong Big East benefits all its members in terms of recruiting and national recognition.

FAQ

Q: How many games has UConn won in a row?
A: 44 games as of February 19, 2026.

Q: What is UConn’s NET ranking?
A: Their schedule is ranked as the 11th-toughest in the nation.

Q: Who did UConn defeat on February 18, 2026?
A: Villanova, with a score of 83-69.

Q: What conference does UConn play in?
A: The Big East.

Did you know? UConn’s 44-game win streak is tied for the seventh-longest in Division I women’s college basketball history.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on UConn’s road games. Their ability to perform well away from home will be crucial to maintaining their undefeated record.

What do you think about UConn’s chances of completing an undefeated season? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to explore other articles on our site for more in-depth coverage of women’s college basketball.

St. John’s Upset of UConn: A Rivalry Reborn and What It Means for the Big East

Madison Square Garden roared Friday night, not with the familiar cheers for UConn, but with a fervent energy backing St. John’s as they defeated No. 3 UConn 81-72. The victory wasn’t just a win; it was a statement, snapping the Huskies’ 18-game winning streak and injecting new life into the Big East race. But beyond the immediate implications, this game signaled a shift in the conference’s power dynamics and offered a glimpse into potential future trends.

The Return of a Classic Rivalry

For years, UConn’s dominance in the Big East transformed Madison Square Garden into “Storrs South,” a home away from home for Husky fans. Still, the arrival of Rick Pitino at St. John’s has dramatically altered that landscape. Pitino has revitalized the Red Storm, attracting fans and creating a palpable home-court advantage. The atmosphere on Friday, described as “90-10” in favor of St. John’s by Pitino himself, demonstrated a clear reversal of fortune. This isn’t just about basketball; it’s about reclaiming a local rivalry and restoring pride to a program that had been dormant for too long.

The Impact of Transfer Portal Success

St. John’s success is directly linked to its aggressive use of the transfer portal. Players like Dylan Darling, initially overlooked in the portal rankings, have become key contributors. Darling’s defensive pressure on UConn’s Silas Demary Jr., forcing nine turnovers, was a game-changer. This highlights a growing trend in college basketball: the ability to quickly build a competitive roster through strategic transfer acquisitions. Programs that excel at identifying and integrating transfer talent will likely see increased success in the coming years.

Zuby Ejiofor: The Rise of Dominant Big Men

Zuby Ejiofor’s performance – 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists – underscored the value of a dominant center. In an era often focused on perimeter play, Ejiofor’s physicality and versatility proved crucial. UConn struggled to contain him, committing numerous fouls in the process. This suggests a potential shift back towards prioritizing strong interior play, particularly in conferences like the Big East known for their physical style. Teams with a dominant post presence will have a significant advantage.

Foul Trouble: A Growing Concern for Top Teams

UConn’s 23 fouls, leading to 22 points for St. John’s, exposed a vulnerability. The Huskies’ inability to defend without fouling is a concerning trend. As the game becomes increasingly athletic and physical, teams will need to develop strategies to avoid unnecessary fouls and maintain defensive intensity. This could involve refining defensive techniques, improving player discipline, or adjusting officiating standards.

The Pitino Effect: Coaching Matters

Rick Pitino’s impact on St. John’s is undeniable. His arrival has not only transformed the program’s on-court performance but likewise its overall culture and fan engagement. This reinforces the importance of coaching in college basketball. Experienced, successful coaches with a proven track record can quickly elevate a program, attract talent, and create a winning atmosphere. Pitino’s success is a testament to the enduring value of strong leadership.

Looking Ahead: The Big East Race is Wide Open

The upset victory has thrown the Big East race wide open. UConn still has a strong team, but their vulnerability has been exposed. St. John’s, now tied with UConn in the loss column, has a favorable schedule down the stretch. The rematch between these two teams will be a pivotal moment, potentially deciding the regular-season champion. The Big East is once again a multi-team conference, promising a thrilling finish.

FAQ

Q: What was the final score of the UConn vs. St. John’s game?
A: St. John’s defeated UConn 81-72.

Q: Who is Rick Pitino?
A: Rick Pitino is the head coach of the St. John’s Red Storm.

Q: What impact did Zuby Ejiofor have on the game?
A: Ejiofor had a dominant performance with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists.

Q: What is the significance of this win for St. John’s?
A: It was St. John’s first victory over a top-three team since 2021 and a key win in the Big East race.

Did you know? Rick Pitino now has 903 career wins, tied for third-most all time.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on St. John’s transfer portal additions – they’ve proven to be game-changers.

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