Bridgeport Region Elite Eight Game Breakdown
#1 Connecticut vs. #10 Oregon
Oregon pulled off another big upset, this time handing Maryland a 77-63 loss. Freshman Sabrina Ionescu led five double digit scorers with 21 points. It was her ability to knock down three-pointers that opened up the Ducks offense and gave Ruthy Hebard space to operate in the paint. When Maryland attempted to make a third quarter rally, it was junior Lexi Bando that made the big shots that kept the Ducks out in front. The Ducks advance to their first Elite Eight ever, but their magical run in the NCAA Tournament will turn into something completely different if they can manage to find a way to beat Connecticut. The Huskies cruised into the Elite Eight with a relatively easy win over UCLA by a score of 86-71.
This is probably where Oregon’s run comes to an end. Against any other #1 seed, the Ducks momentum could carry this team to another win. However, the Huskies are not going to let that happen. Oregon needs to play a near perfect game. Ionescu and Bando must make shots and provide Hebard space in the paint. Of course, slowing down the Connecticut offense is another story. The Huskies have a loaded starting five that can hurt Oregon from everywhere on the floor. Naphessa Collier is coming off another dominating performance against UCLA where she scored 27 points and added 14 rebounds. With Gabby Williams and Katie Lou Samuelson, the Ducks will have trouble defending the Huskies size and shooting ability. If somebody is having an off night, Connecticut still has the talent to simply outscore the Ducks and their winning streak should continue with a trip to the Final Four on the line.
