Which Is the Best UConn Women’s Basketball Team of All Time? Here Are the Top Four
The University of Connecticut (UConn) women’s basketball team has long been a powerhouse in the sport, with a history of dominance and unmatched success. Under the leadership of legendary head coach Geno Auriemma, the Huskies have won an astonishing 11 NCAA championships, setting numerous records along the way. But which of these championship-winning teams stands above the rest as the greatest of all time? While opinions may differ, four teams stand out as the most memorable and accomplished in UConn’s storied history.
1. 2002-2003 UConn Women’s Basketball Team
The 2002-2003 UConn team is often regarded as one of the greatest in NCAA history. This team, led by superstars Diana Taurasi, Sue Bird, and Swin Cash, went 39-0, capping off an undefeated season with a national title. The combination of Taurasi’s scoring ability, Bird’s leadership, and Cash’s versatility made the Huskies nearly unstoppable. UConn’s victory in the national championship game against the University of Tennessee, in a thrilling 73-68 win, cemented their place in history. The team’s dominance throughout the regular season and the NCAA Tournament left little doubt that they were the best team of their era, and many consider them to be the benchmark for excellence in women’s college basketball.
2. 2014-2015 UConn Women’s Basketball Team
The 2014-2015 UConn team is another contender for the title of the greatest of all time. This squad went a perfect 38-0, continuing the Huskies’ legacy of excellence. Led by senior guard Mosqueda-Lewis, freshman phenom Breanna Stewart, and point guard Moriah Jefferson, the team boasted an incredible mix of experience and youthful energy. Their dominance was evident in every aspect of the game: offense, defense, and execution. The 2015 team’s 10th NCAA title was earned with an 81-58 win over Notre Dame in the national championship game. Stewart’s performance in the final, where she earned the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player honors, is one of the most memorable in the program’s history. The team’s flawless season was a testament to their cohesion, work ethic, and sheer talent.
3. 2009-2010 UConn Women’s Basketball Team
The 2009-2010 UConn team, led by future WNBA stars Tina Charles and Maya Moore, is another top contender. The Huskies posted an astounding 39-0 record, dominating their opponents both in the Big East and throughout the NCAA Tournament. UConn’s defense was stifling, while their offense flowed smoothly behind the leadership of Moore and Charles. What set this team apart was their resilience and their ability to handle high-pressure situations. In the national championship game, UConn defeated Stanford 53-47, capturing their seventh NCAA title. The 2009-2010 season is often remembered for its perfect record and the balanced, team-oriented play that defined their run.
4. 2019-2020 UConn Women’s Basketball Team
Though they were unable to finish their season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2019-2020 UConn team was poised to make a strong case for being the best of all time. With a 29-3 record and an NCAA Tournament berth firmly in sight, the Huskies were arguably the most dominant team in the country that year. The squad featured a stellar group of players, including the dynamic sophomore forward Megan Walker, junior point guard Crystal Dangerfield, and freshman Paige Bueckers—who would go on to dominate in the following seasons. This team’s potential was immense, and while they never had the chance to compete for a national title, many fans and analysts still regard them as one of the most talented UConn teams to never win it all.
Conclusion
While all four teams mentioned above are undeniably great, the 2002-2003 UConn team often gets the nod as the best in history due to their undefeated season and the trio of legendary players leading the charge. However, each of these squads has left an indelible mark on UConn’s illustrious history, and opinions will likely continue to vary about which one stands atop the mountain. Regardless of which team is considered the best, one thing is clear: UConn women’s basketball has set a standard of excellence that will be remembered for years to come.
