Huskies Dominance too much for Pirates in 84-48 Road Loss

Published: Saturday, January 3, 2026

by Oren Mouton

HARTFORD, Conn. -- The Seton Hall Pirates (10-5, 4-2) were tested by one of the nation’s elite programs on Saturday, falling to the #1 UConn Huskies (15-0, 6-0) in BIG EAST action 84-48.

UConn wasted no time asserting itself to start the game, jumping out to a 6-0 lead behind early offensive rebounds and aggressive interior play. Seton Hall struggled to find a rhythm in the opening minutes, committing multiple turnovers and missing early perimeter looks.

The Huskies capitalized on those mistakes, as their ball pressure generated steals and transition opportunities that quickly widened the gap. Azzi Fudd knocked down a pair of deep threes in the first quarter, helping UConn build momentum while the Pirates searched for answers offensively.

By the end of the opening quarter, the Huskies were up 19-11 largely due to their dominance on the glass and ability to turn defense into offense. 

The second quarter followed a similar script. UConn opened the frame on a scoring surge with a disciplined pace. Sarah Strong made her presence felt on both ends of the floor, finishing inside while also recording multiple blocks and steals that would halt Pirate possessions, which was the tale of the tape for this game.

Still, the Pirates continued to compete. Valenzuela buried a deep three, and Shailyn Pinkney knocked down a mid-range jump shot to stop the bleeding for a bit. However, every Pirate basket was quickly answered.

UConn maintained control, including a late second quarter spark that ballooned the lead to 20 points. At the break, the Huskies held a 38-18 lead, firmly in control.

The third quarter continued to tilt in favor of the Huskies, as the pressure overwhelmed the Pirates coming out of the locker room. UConn opened the half with the same gameplan, forcing turnovers and stringing together stops.

The Pirates continued to compete. Jordana Codio found some offensive footing, scoring inside and knocking down free throws. Each Pirate bucket was quickly answered by UConn as the third quarter ended 67-26.

Seton Hall continued to battle through the fourth quarter, as Savannah Catalon’s three capped a 12-2 Seton Hall run. The story of the night and main issue for the Pirates were turnovers, as the Huskies forced a whopping 36. 

The Pirates will be back at it on Thursday, January 8 in Providence, Rhode Island as they take on the Friars where Ryder Nuesell and Lauren Reese will have the call for 89.5 FM WSOU.

Oren Mouton can be reached at oren.mouton@student.shu.edu 

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