Huskies win first title in ’95

The UConn men and women have created countless memories through the madness of March and onto the championships won in April. Each day between now and the men’s and women’s Final Fours next month, The Courant will look back through our archives and highlight a memorable men’s and/or women’s game that occurred on that date. Today:

April 2, 1995: UConn 70, Tennessee 64

This day will be remembered forever in Huskies lore, as the women took home the school’s first-ever basketball national championship with a win over Tennessee to cap an undefeated 35-0 season. Rebecca Lobo scored a game-high 17 points and grabbed 8 rebounds, Jen Rizzotti had 15 points and Jamelle Elliott had 13 and 7 boards. It was the first major step towards Connecticut becoming the Basketball Capital of the World.

Also on this date:  2000, UConn women defeat Tennessee in Geno’s hometown of Philadelphia, for second national championship. … 2011 Men outlast Kentucky, 55-54, to get to national title game. Kemba Walker and Co. would win it over Butler two days later.

Our readers weigh in

1995, at your service: “Headed back to our hotel in Minneapolis after UConn won the championship. Team parents were staying at our hotel where there was a commotion in the lobby. Kara Wolter’s mother and sister were distraught as they missed their ride to the team celebration dinner at the team hotel. We had just parked our rental car so we said, ‘Come on, we’ll bring you.’ It was our privilege to be able to deliver those two lovely ladies to a much deserved celebration.”

— Peggy Matava, East Hartford

Share a memory

What’s your favorite UConn March Madness memory? Whether you were in the stands or on your couch, tell us the Husky hoops story that you’re always sharing with your friends and family. We’ll take a look at our responses and run some of the best in print and online. Remember, brevity is always best, so keep it short and sweet. Send your thoughts to sports@courant.com and be sure to include your name and town.