UNCASVILLE, Conn. (AP) — Paige Bueckers led No. 3 UConn with 20 points in a dominant 71-40 victory over St. John’s in the Big East women’s basketball tournament quarterfinals on Saturday. Sarah Strong contributed 10 points and 14 rebounds, while Azzi Fudd added 11 points for UConn (29-3), extending their winning streak to 34 games in conference tournaments. This marked the Huskies’ 13th consecutive win in the Big East tournament.
Ariana Vanderhoop and Kylie Lavelle each chipped in 11 points with three 3-pointers apiece. Lashae Dwyer scored 10 points for the Red Storm (16-15). UConn seized control with a 22-0 run after St. John’s scored the first two points.
Despite a brief comeback from St. John’s, UConn maintained a comfortable lead at halftime, leading 34-17. St. John’s managed to hit four 3-pointers in the second half, one short of their total in each regular-season game against UConn.
UConn continued their dominance in conference tournaments, advancing to the semifinals for the 37th consecutive season. The last time the Huskies missed the semifinals was in 1988.
In a critical moment, UConn held St. John’s scoreless for almost nine minutes, turning the game in their favor. UConn did not commit a turnover until late in the third quarter, showcasing their strong ball control. The Red Storm, known for their defensive steals, only managed one steal in the first three quarters.
UConn will face either Marquette or Villanova in the Big East tournament semifinals on Sunday.
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