You drafted my heart - Nika Mühl (Eng. version)

Press Conference

Sports Illustrated

UConn's Rising Star: Olivia's Transformation on the Court

By Chris Mannix

Feature of the Week

UConn and Olivia's Evolution: Stronger, More Confident, Unstoppable

By Chris Mannix

UConn, CT – I had the pleasure of attending a recent open practice session of the UConn women's basketball team, and I was thoroughly impressed with what I saw, particularly in the development of Olivia Bennett. As a basketball critic who has followed the sport for years, witnessing such a visible transformation in a player is rare and fascinating.

Observing Olivia on the court, the first thing that struck me was her physical strength. She is noticeably stronger, which is evident in her imposing presence during practice. It's clear she has dedicated significant time to her physical conditioning, and it's paying off in her performance.

"A noticeable change in Olivia's style is her transition from a classic point guard to a shooting guard."

A notable change in Olivia's style is her transition from a classic point guard to a shooting guard. Previously known for her ability to orchestrate plays and distribute the ball with precision, what I saw in practice was a player who now fully trusts her shooting. She is more confident, and her long-range shots are more precise than ever. The now number zero doesn't hesitate to take responsibility for finishing plays, significantly diversifying her game.

"Her long-range shots are more precise than ever."

What truly stands out is how nearly every play runs through Olivia and her court partner, Nika, who, by the way, is also her girlfriend. The synergy between the two is palpable. They read the game with incredible fluidity, making UConn an extremely challenging team to defend against. The chemistry between Bennett and Muhl is undoubtedly the team's beating heart.

"I firmly believe that if Olivia can stay 100% healthy throughout the season, UConn will pose a monumental challenge for any opponent."

I firmly believe that if Olivia can stay 100% healthy throughout the season, UConn will pose a monumental challenge for any opponent. Her renewed confidence in her shooting, coupled with her physical strength and synergy with her teammates, puts the team in a privileged position to achieve great victories.

"In summary, UConn's open practice revealed a reinvented Olivia who is stronger than ever."

In summary, UConn's open practice revealed a reinvented Olivia who is stronger than ever. Her evolution as a shooting guard, along with her growing confidence and finishing ability, makes her an essential piece for UConn's success this season. I am eager to see how she and the team perform when the games truly begin. If they continue like this, they will certainly be among the favorites for the national title.

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Chris Mannix, Senior Writer, Sports Illustrated

On the Eve of the Season Opener, UConn Press Conference Sets the Stage

The atmosphere in the University of Connecticut's press room was charged with anticipation and tension the day before their first game of the season. Olivia and Nika, accompanied by Geno, entered the room where a series of reporters awaited to ask questions ahead of the big day.