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UConn’s Geno Auriemma Sends Exciting Message on Incoming Player

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Rodney Knuppel | Last updated May 26, 2025 3:34 PM ET

Geno Auriemma and the UConn Huskies face a big challenge heading into the 2025-26 season. The legendary head coach, who turned 71 in March, is looking to lead his team to another NCAA Tournament title and possibly repeat as national champions.

That goal won’t come easily, especially with the departure of superstar Paige Bueckers and several other key contributors. UConn boasts 12 NCAA Tournament titles, but the program hasn’t won back-to-back championships since the 2014-15 and 2015-16 seasons.

Still, the Huskies took a step forward last week with the addition of a key player. Auriemma opened up about newcomer Kayleigh Heckel, and his comments reflect just how thrilled he is to have her in Storrs.

According to Storrs Central, Auriemma said:

“Kayleigh has a passion for the game. She plays at a quick pace and can impact both ends of the court. She's a great teammate and someone who wants to grow on and off the court. We're excited to have her at Connecticut.”

UConn WBB coach Geno Auriemma on the acquisition of Kayleigh Heckel: pic.twitter.com/cn9LK2LGNm
— Storrs Central (@StorrsCentral) May 26, 2025

Heckel joins UConn via the transfer portal after she spent her freshman season with the USC Trojans, now a member of the Big Ten. She appeared in 34 games and averaged 6.1 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists per contest.

In USC’s Elite Eight matchup against UConn on March 31, Heckel scored five points in 18 minutes. The Huskies eliminated the Trojans with a 78-64 win.

Auriemma will certainly miss the star power he lost in the off-season, particularly Bueckers, who averaged 19.8 points per game and was the centerpiece of UConn’s offense.

Heckel joins another portal transfer, Serah Williams (Wisconsin), while incoming freshmen Kelis Fisher, Gandy Malou-Mamel and Blanca Quinonez round out the new class. With these additions, UConn hopes to maintain its status as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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