What we learned about UConn women’s basketball in three exhibition games

STORRS, CT — UConn couldn't have asked for a better way to end its preseason.

On Sunday, the Huskies defeated Army 86-50 to go undefeated in their three exhibition games. UConn also defeated Syracuse and Texas in blowout fashion, leaving no doubt that it is a contender for a national championship.

Through this three-game stretch, the Huskies have proven they have the potential to be an elite defensive team with a potent offense led by reigning national player of the year Sarah Strong.

While these games don't count, the Huskies have given a peek to what this team could look like going forward.

Here's what we learned about UConn after three exhibition game wins:

See photos of UConn women's basketball vs Army

Jovana Popovic has been even better than advertised.

The Serbian guard has been UConn's second leading scorer this preseason, showcasing her skills to be a shot creator and a spot-up shooter in the backcourt.

Her poise impressed coach Geno Auriemma the most. Teams have tried to pick her up full court, but she hasn't wilted through the pressure. She's turned the ball over just seven times across these three games.

Popovic has played off starting point guard KK Arnold well as she has proven she's just as much of a threat when she's off the ball. When she does get opportunities to create with the ball in her hands, she's been outstanding as a guard who can shoot off the bounce or get to the rim with her strength and quickness.

When forward Blanca Quiñonez returns from her shoulder recovery, she almost certainly will be a starter. But Popovic's spot should be safe after showing she could be one of the top guards in the country this season.

Defense was perhaps UConn's biggest strength in preseason play.

The Huskies held all three of their opponents to 61 points or less with a defense that got better in the second half.

UConn forced turnovers at a high rate, averaging 18 takeaways. Teams have shot an average of 36.77% from the field and 26.69% from the 3-point line.

"I think that we have emphasized a lot on pressuring the ball," sophomore guard Allie Ziebell said. "I think getting in those gaps and taking some things away will really disrupt other teams that we play against."

Still searching for consistent center play

With Strong becoming more perimeter oriented, UConn will almost always have a traditional center on the floor.

Jana El Alfy has gotten the starting nod but has split time with freshman Olivia Vukosa. Auriemma said he's still figuring out how to play both of them next to Strong.

"The fact that Sarah is spending a lot of time on the perimeter, which I like, that leaves a lot of room for those big guys to work," Auriemma said. "But we got to make sure they don't get in the way."

The Huskies aren't even fully healthy yet, but they already have multiple players on the bench that can come in and contribute.

Ziebell has shown that she could be a reliable shooter in the second unit, hitting 3-of-7 shots from beyond the arc against Army.

Kayleigh Heckel has slotted in as the backup point guard this preseason, and Auriemma has said there could be opportunities to find her own shot within the offense this year.

Vukosa is almost certainly going to be the backup center going forward. While she is still adjusting to the college game, her passing and her presence on the offensive glass will make her an important piece to the frontcourt's rotation.

Will the injured players be ready for the season opener?

Three of UConn's players are still questionable to play in next week's opener against Cornell.

Blanca Quiñonez (shoulder) and Marine Dursus (foot) have not seen any action during UConn's three exhibition games. Morgan Cheli (undisclosed) played in UConn's first preseason game against Syracuse but has been absent ever since.

Auriemma said all three players are in "ready-to-play" protocol and all have the possibility to suit up for the opener.

"I've kind of stopped asking because I keep getting the same answer," Auriemma said when asked about the status of his three players.