Why UConn and Paige Bueckers Are Not Taking South Dakota State Lightly in March Madness: A Closer Look at the Upset Potential and Strategic Challenges
March Madness is known for its unpredictability, and the UConn Huskies, led by superstar guard Paige Bueckers, are well aware of the potential dangers of underestimating lower-seeded opponents. One team that presents a serious challenge in this year’s NCAA tournament is South Dakota State (SDSU), a mid-major powerhouse with a history of pulling off upsets. While UConn is a perennial title contender, they recognize that SDSU is not an opponent to be taken lightly.
South Dakota State’s History of Upsets
SDSU has built a reputation as a dangerous team in March, capable of knocking off higher-seeded opponents. The Jackrabbits have consistently been one of the top mid-major programs in women’s college basketball, making deep runs in the NCAA tournament. Their disciplined style of play, strong three-point shooting, and defensive tenacity have allowed them to compete with—and defeat—Power Five programs.
UConn, despite its dominance, has had close calls against tough mid-major teams in past tournaments. Head coach Geno Auriemma knows that teams like SDSU play with a chip on their shoulder, eager to prove they belong among the elite. That makes the Jackrabbits particularly dangerous in a win-or-go-home scenario.
SDSU’s Strengths and Upset Potential
Several factors make SDSU a legitimate threat to UConn:
1. Balanced Scoring and Shooting Ability – The Jackrabbits excel in spreading the floor and knocking down shots from beyond the arc. Their ability to shoot at a high percentage from three-point range can put pressure on UConn’s defense, forcing them to extend their coverage and potentially creating driving lanes.
2. Experienced Leadership – SDSU is led by seasoned upperclassmen who have been in high-pressure situations before. This experience allows them to stay composed even against powerhouse teams like UConn.
3. Physical, Fundamental Defense – While UConn thrives on offensive efficiency and transition play, SDSU is known for disciplined, structured defense. If the Jackrabbits can disrupt UConn’s rhythm, force turnovers, and limit second-chance opportunities, they could put themselves in a position to win.
4. Underdog Mentality – SDSU embraces the role of the underdog, playing with intensity and confidence. They won’t be intimidated by UConn’s history or star power, and that mindset makes them dangerous.
UConn’s Game Plan and Paige Bueckers’ Role
To avoid an upset, UConn will need to approach this game with focus and precision. Paige Bueckers, as the leader of the Huskies, will play a crucial role in ensuring her team doesn’t overlook SDSU.
1. Controlling the Tempo – UConn will look to dictate the pace of the game, using their athleticism and depth to push the tempo while limiting SDSU’s offensive rhythm.
2. Defensive Pressure – Bueckers and her teammates will need to apply full-court pressure, disrupting SDSU’s ball movement and limiting open perimeter shots.
3. Star Power and Execution – Bueckers has the ability to take over games with her scoring and playmaking. If she asserts herself early and gets her teammates involved, UConn can avoid falling into a close, grind-it-out contest that favors SDSU.
Conclusion
While UConn is favored, they know that March Madness is full of surprises. With a well-coached and fundamentally sound opponent in SDSU, the Huskies must bring their best to avoid a potential upset. Paige Bueckers will need to lead by example, ensuring UConn plays with th
e urgency and execution needed to advance.
