3 key storylines for UConn vs Arizona in 2021 Women’s Final 4 matchup
By Ian Mumm
Arizona Needs to Find Offensive Balance
Aari McDonald’s scoring performance in the Elite 8 definitively makes her THE offensive threat for the Wildcats against UConn. McDonald has amassed four 30-point games on the season, including in each of her last two games, however, there is only one other player on Arizona’s roster averaging double-digits. The drop-off to the rest of the roster is fairly significant, and for this team to remain competitive in this game they will need input from everyone who steps foot on the floor.
Utilizing McDonald’s speed to create penetration and opportunities to collapse the defense is going to be crucial towards creating space for the Wildcats perimeter shooters. Despite this plan working late against the Hoosiers, only one other player managed to score double-digits. This needs to be an earlier priority for Arizona to create momentum and make UConn uncomfortable.
Likewise, this strategy will help to correct a glaring issue the Wildcats have faced throughout the tournament. Averaging only 12 free throw attempts per game, Arizona is struggling to get extra opportunities from the charity stripe and creating foul trouble for their opponents. Arizona’s offense is not the most efficient and they will have to find ways to increase their point total against a strong Connecticut team.