A New Chapter in a storied rivalry
Ohio State’s women’s basketball program is preparing to welcome Connecticut to the Schottenstein Center on November 12, marking the first game of a planned home‑and‑home series for the 2025‑26 season. The matchup will be more than a early‑season test; it will be a continuation of a rivalry that has seen the Huskies hold a decisive edge in recent years.
Last season the Buckeyes fell 100‑68 to the Huskies on November 16, a game in which UConn guard Azzi Fudd contributed 19 points and seven assists while teammate Sarah Strong poured in 29 points with 13 rebounds, seven assists and five steals. That loss added to a 10‑1 all‑time deficit, the only Buckeye victory coming in a 73‑61 upset on March 25, 2023.
What’s at stake for both programs
Both teams return substantial portions of their rosters, with Ohio State retaining eight players from the previous campaign and UConn bringing back ten. The return of top recruits adds extra intrigue: Olivia Vukosa, a 6‑foot‑4 center ranked fourth by 247Sports, will anchor UConn’s frontcourt, while Ohio State’s guard Atlee Vanesko, rated No. 68 nationally, looks to provide a spark for the Buckeyes. The series offers each program a chance to gauge progress early in the season and to build momentum heading into conference play.