ENFIELD, CT — UConn basketball fans braved the cold and packed the Raising Cane’s parking lot in Enfield on Wednesday for a chance to meet two of their championship heroes, Azzi Fudd and KK Arnold.
The Huskies are fresh off their 12th national title, defeating South Carolina on Sunday, and excitement across Connecticut hasn’t slowed.
“We’re in the Basketball Capitol of the World, and it shows,” Fudd said, standing alongside Arnold as the crowd swelled around the fast-food lot.
Supporters of all ages, some traveling across state lines, came to show their admiration for the players who brought another championship home to Storrs.
Skylar Leone, an aspiring Husky herself, said meeting the duo was unforgettable.
“Azzi and KK are definitely two of my favorites. And just knowing we have a chance to see them or talk to them is really cool.”
Alyssa Eisele didn’t attend many games this season but made sure she didn’t miss Wednesday’s appearance.
“I’m a huge UConn basketball fan. I’m really proud of them for winning. So I just want to be here to support.”
Some fans made even longer journeys. Hannah Shamgochian drove in from Ware, Massachusetts, just to see Arnold.
“I love her social media presence, and she is so funny. I saw them at the Big East Tournament and just love their dynamic.”
That dynamic was on full display both during the season and again in the parking lot, as the players laughed, embraced, and signed autographs for fans.
“She always comes up to me and makes sure I’m all good and straight because I had a couple of moments this year, and she always talked me out of it,” Arnold said of Fudd. “So she’s a great teammate, and I’m grateful to have one more year with her.”
Fudd returned the praise.
“You see it on the court when she comes in the game, like everything changes. The energy is there. Like, it just, it rises. So having someone like KK on your side is what you need. And I love this girl.”
Both players expressed gratitude for Husky Nation’s support. “This is my dream school, so I’m just kind of living out my dream,” Arnold said.
“To show up here today, not basketball-related, and just feel the love already, see people waiting outside like it’s cold outside. I was cold,” Fudd added. “So to have that, it’s amazing. And I can’t wait to serve them some chicken.”
With their championship momentum and unmatched fanbase, Fudd and Arnold reminded Enfield why Connecticut still owns the title of basketball capital.
