UConn's Sarah Strong wins Naismith Player of the Year

Sophomore forward led Huskies to undefeated season and Final Four bid

Apr. 2, 2026 at 12:38am

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UConn sophomore forward Sarah Strong has been named the 2026 Naismith Trophy winner, which honors the top women's basketball player in the country. Strong averaged 18.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 3.4 steals and 1.6 blocks in leading the Huskies to a 38-0 record and a Final Four appearance.

Why it matters

Strong's Naismith Trophy win continues UConn's dominance in women's college basketball, as she becomes the eighth Husky player to earn the prestigious award. Her all-around statistical production and leadership have been instrumental in the team's undefeated season and deep NCAA Tournament run.

The details

Strong shot 59.4% from the field, 40.4% from 3-point range and 84.8% at the free throw line this season. She led the country in defensive rating and defensive win shares, showcasing her two-way impact. The sophomore was also named the U.S. Basketball Writers Association's national player of the year and is a finalist for the Wooden Award.

  • Sarah Strong won the 2026 Naismith Trophy on April 2, 2026.
  • Strong led UConn to an undefeated 38-0 record during the 2025-26 season.

The players

Sarah Strong

A sophomore forward at the University of Connecticut who was named the 2026 Naismith Trophy winner as the top women's basketball player in the country.

Geno Auriemma

The head coach of the University of Connecticut women's basketball team, who has praised Strong as the best player in the country.

Rebecca Lobo

A former UConn player who won the Naismith Trophy in 1995.

Sue Bird

A former UConn player who won the Naismith Trophy in 2002.

Diana Taurasi

A former UConn player who won the Naismith Trophy in 2003 and 2004.

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What they’re saying

“Sarah's one of those high-level players who looks you right in the eye every time you're talking to her and gets every single word you're saying. And if she has a question, she's not afraid to ask it because to her, 'I don't want to miss anything when I'm on the court.'”

— Geno Auriemma, UConn Head Coach

What’s next

Strong will look to lead UConn to a national championship in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

Sarah Strong's Naismith Trophy win solidifies her status as one of the top players in women's college basketball and continues UConn's legacy of producing elite talent. Her all-around game and leadership have been instrumental in the Huskies' undefeated season and run to the Final Four.