In a significant announcement for the UConn Huskies, point guard Nika Muhl has declared that she will not take up her additional year of eligibility and will instead leave the team post this season. The revelation was made through her social media on Friday.
A pivotal player from Croatia, Muhl displayed her decision by sharing pictures alongside coach Geno Auriemma riding in a convertible, appended with a caption expressing her farewell to the UConn community, saying, “Peace out UConn nation. I will miss you so much!”
Muhl’s influence as the two-time Big East defensive player of the year is underscored by her season averages of 7.2 points and 6.8 assists per game.
Her announcement comes against the backdrop of teammates Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd, and Aubrey Griffin—all of whom could have also concluded their college basketball tenures after the current season—expressing earlier their decisions to stay with the Huskies.
While senior forward Aaliyah Edwards also possesses the option to extend her college career, any decisions regarding her future involvement remain undisclosed.
Bueckers disclosed her light-hearted efforts to persuade both Muhl and Edwards to join her for a further season, with an emphasis on wanting only what is best for the pair.
As the team prepares for upcoming challenges, Bueckers stresses the importance of treasuring every moment together. The Huskies, currently ranked 9th, prepare to square off against Providence in the Big East tournament, entering as the dominant top seed.
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FAQ
- What statistics has Nika Muhl been averaging this season?
Nika Muhl has been averaging 7.2 points and 6.8 assists this season. - Which players have announced their return to UConn for another season?
Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd, and Aubrey Griffin have all announced they will return for another season. - Has Aaliyah Edwards decided on using her extra year of eligibility at UConn?
As of now, Aaliyah Edwards has not publicly announced her plans regarding her extra year of eligibility.
Conclusion
Nika Muhl’s decision to forgo her extra year of eligibility marks a bittersweet moment for UConn fans and the women’s college basketball community. As she bids a heartfelt goodbye to UConn nation, the legacy of her defensive prowess and leadership will remain a fixture in the annals of the program. The Huskies, now gearing up for the Big East tournament, will look to their remaining talent to continue their basketball excellence. Muhl’s contributions, both on and off the court, have indisputably left an indelible mark on UConn women’s basketball.