“Kid can’t catch a break”: Geno Auriemma provides update about UConn star’s potential season-ending injury

It looks like UConn coach Geno Auriemma's struggles with an injury-ridden roster will continue this season as well. After losing nearly half a squad last season, the Huskies were confident of a full roster for this campaign. However, just one month into the 2024-25 season coach Auriemma is losing players to injury.

While talking to the press on Tuesday afternoon, Geno Auriemma provided an update on Ayanna Patterson. The forward hurt her shoulder during the pre-season practices in October. She recovered enough to return to practices in November but aggravated her injury during UConn's games in the Bahamas.

During a radio show appearance last week, coach Auriemma had hinted that Patterson could get surgery soon. On Tuesday, he confirmed it, saying (1:20):

"Yeah, yeah. That decision is going to be made soon and if it does happen, it's going to happen soon, we just don't have a date.

He also said that it will be a season-ending injury, adding:

"Kid can't catch a break right."

Ayanna Patterson missed the 2023-24 season with knee tendinitis and underwent surgery in December. During her freshman year, the class of 2022 prospect averaged 2.2 points, 2.2 rebounds and 0.6 assists.

“She’s such a difference maker when she’s on the court at practice because we don’t have anybody like her,” Auriemma said (via The UConn Blog). “None of our other post players are like her.”

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Geno Auriemma shares updates on Azzi Fudd, Ashley Griffin and more

Azzi Fudd missed last season with an ACL tear but made a healthy return this season. However, she hurt her knee during Saturday's game against Louisville. Geno Auriemma updated that it was not a serious injury, but she is unlikely to return soon.

Aubrey Griffin, who missed half of last season with an ACL tear, is progressing well and will return to the court soon.

"She's playing a lot of simulated games, doing more and more every day in practice," Geno Auriemma said. "Now, it's more of how is her body responding the day after practice. And as that gets better and better and better over time, then obviously, the closer she gets."

Caroline Ducharme, who was out last year with head and neck issues, is yet to participate in practice for this season and her return is being evaluated day-to-day basis.

"I know she wants to play so bad," he said. "She gets so pissed when we take her off the court (because) she wants to play so bad."

The UConn Huskies have a big game ahead as they take on Notre Dame on Thursday.