FAIRFIELD — As soon as the UConn women’s basketball team stepped onto the floor at Sacred Heart’s Pitt Center on Sunday afternoon, the arena vibrated with palpable excitement. Thousands of fans packed into the small gym in Fairfield for the opportunity to get an early look at the reigning national champions as they prepare to begin the 2025-26 season.

UConn wasn’t at complete strength for the open practice, though all 15 members of the roster were in attendance. Sophomore Morgan Cheli was the only player not fully dressed as she continues recovering from season-ending ankle surgery she underwent in late February. Redshirt sophomore Jana El Alfy and freshman Blanca Quinonez also did not participate, though neither had any visible injury. El Alfy was healthy in 2024-25 but redshir

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