The University of Connecticut (UConn) women’s basketball team has officially signed forward Blanca Quiñonez, a standout talent from Milagro, Ecuador, to its 2025 recruiting class. Standing at 6-foot-2, Quiñonez becomes the first South American player in the program’s illustrious history.
Quiñonez’s journey to UConn is marked by international experience and a commitment to excellence. She has been competing professionally in Italy’s Serie A1 league with Magnolia Basket Campobasso since 2020, where she has showcased her versatility and skill. Her decision to transition to U.S. college basketball was influenced by the sport’s growth and the opportunities it presents. In July, Quiñonez met UConn’s head coach, Geno Auriemma, at the NBA’s Basketball Without Borders Camp, where she felt an immediate connection with the team. She made her official visit to UConn in early February and expressed confidence in her choice, stating, “I felt like I was home.”
Coach Auriemma has expressed enthusiasm about Quiñonez joining the Huskies, highlighting her extensive professional experience and dynamic playing style. He noted that her maturity and versatility would be valuable assets to the team.
Quiñonez joins a strong 2025 recruiting class for UConn, which includes point guard Kelis Fisher from Maryland and forward Gandy Malou-Mamel from Ireland. Fisher is ranked No. 27, and Malou-Mamel is ranked No. 73 in the class. Quiñonez, due to her international status, is not ranked, but her addition has bolstered UConn’s recruiting efforts. ESPN has ranked UConn’s Class of 2025 as the fifth-best recruiting class in the country.
The signing of Quiñonez reflects UConn’s commitment to diversifying its roster and tapping into global talent. Her unique background and international experience are expected to bring a fresh perspective to the team. As the Huskies continue to build for the future, the addition of Quiñonez signifies a strategic move to maintain their competitive edge on both national and international stages.
UConn’s women’s basketball program has a storied history of success, and the inclusion of players like Quiñonez ensures that the team remains at the forefront of collegiate basketball. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how her international experience will translate to the NCAA and contribute to the Huskies’ pursuit of excellence.
With Quiñonez set to join the team, UConn’s future looks promising, and her signing marks an exciting chapter in the program’s ongoing narrative of success and
innovation.
Leave a Reply