STORRS, Connecticut — Balanced scoring from the Huskies led them to an easy victory over Mercer University in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.
UConn rotated nine players throughout most of the game with every player scoring at least three points.
Senior guard Christyn Williams led the way in scoring for UConn with a game-high 13 points.
Sophomore guard Paige Bueckers was not limited in action today logging 25 minutes of play and scoring 12 points on 5-7 shooting. Bueckers' minutes had been limited prior to this game in the Big East Tournament, but she played a full role today.
"I think ever since the end of the Big East Tournament, I've been trying to lock in mentally and physically," said Bueckers. "The preparation has helped me be better on the court."
UConn's defense was also a major factor in this game, recording 14 steals. Williams led UConn with four steals on her own and freshman guard Caroline Ducharme was second with three steals.
The Huskies' defense in the third quarter was especially aggressive not allowing Mercer to score once in the entire quarter launching them into a 20-0 run.
"When our defense is great, our offense is gonna come naturally," said Bueckers.
Head Coach Geno Auriemma sounded off on UConn's effort after the game.
"At halftime, I wasn't too pleased," said Auriemma. "But I thought we came out with a different attitude in the third."
In the fourth, sophomore forward Piath Gabriel got involved in the scoring with two layups underneath the basket.
The final score of the game was 83-38.
UConn's next game is on Monday against UCF at 9 p.m.
Daniel Dashefsky is a digital content producer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at ddashefsky@fox61.com.
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