The national security officer who guided Connecticut to their first women’s basketball championship in nine years on Sunday mentioned that he depended on faith in God throughout his journey, which included injuries and doubts about whether the Huskies could reclaim their former glory. Connecticut’s Page Bueckers contributed 17 points in the NCAA Championship, leading her team to an 82-59 win against South Carolinaa The impressive win that marked Bueckers’ first title School The first championship since 2016.
This marks the 12th championship for the Huskies, a consistent contender under iconic coach Geno Auriemma.
Bueckers played a significant role in leading the Huskies to the 2021 Final Four and in 2024, but didn’t clinch the title until Sunday. She sat out the entire 2022-23 season due to a knee injury.
Her faith, she noted, provided her comfort in times of uncertainty.
“If there’s one thing I can emphasize, it’s about embracing who you are,” she stated to ESPN in a post-game interview. “Many people will interact with you. there is much of That narrative … Attempting to categorize it. [They] often tell me [that] you must follow this path, you must emulate this player, you must imitate that player. Make sure to represent who you genuinely are.
“there is individuals that They cast doubt because they believe you are relying solely on your strength. We are relying on God’s strength here, And through God’s power for his purposes – we are not doing this alone. just do this for those who have faith in you And always remain true to yourself. ”
“We are relying on God's strength here.”
A highlight from Page Bueckers after assisting UCONN in securing the Women’s College Basketball National Championship pic.twitter.com/ikizhkljny
– Sports Spectrum (@sports_spectrum) April 6, 2025
Referencing Bueckers Proverbs 3:5-6 Regarding her background, she has frequently expressed her faith. Following a knee injury during a pickup basketball game in August 2022 that ended her season, she posted on Instagram:
Her career average of 19.9 points per game is the highest in Connecticut’s history. She also ranks third in career points in NCAA Women’s Tournament history and was recognized as the consensus national player of the year in her freshman year in 2021.
On Sunday, she spoke once again about her faith when questioned about preparing mentally for a high-stakes game.
“Our preparation in the gym, our regimen — from nutrition to rest — you’re simply leaning towards it,” she explained. “And I have faith in God. I believe everything occurs for a purpose, and I trust that everything is already within his control. Hence, I rely on it, leaning on his strength, leaning on his comfort, embracing his preparation.”
Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Maddie Meyer/staff
Michael Foot For two decades, I have focused on the intersection of faith and news. His articles are featured in the Baptist Press, Christianity Today, Christian Post, Leaf Leaf, Toronto Star, Knoxville News Sentinel.
Check out Michael’s podcast! He hosts Cross Walk Talk, a podcast featuring interviews with Christian filmmakers, artists, directors, and more. Listen to notable Christian personalities emphasize their faith in the entertainment industry and uncover the best Christian movies, literature, television, and other media. You can find Cross Walk Talk Above lifeaudio.comor subscribe apple or Spotify to ensure you won’t miss an inspiring interview.
Originally published on April 7, 2025.
