UConn Women’s Basketball Season opener in Jeopardy Due to Government Shutdown
WASHINGTON, D.C. – October 6, 2023 – The UConn women’s basketball team’s highly anticipated season opener against Louisville, scheduled for November 4 as part of the Armed Forces Classic, may be forced to relocate from Ramstein Air Base in Germany to the U.S.naval Base in Washington, D.C. (Navy Yard) due to the ongoing United States government shutdown.
A source involved in event planning told CT Insider that a resolution to the shutdown is needed by Monday, October 20, to maintain the game’s original location. The event’s potential move stems from interaction disruptions; as of October 6, Ramstein Air Base had ceased communication with ESPN, the event’s host, hindering logistical preparations. ESPN requires sufficient time to transport equipment and configure the base’s aircraft hangar for the game.
This year’s Armed Forces Classic marks the first time the event will feature women’s basketball. Ramstein air Base previously hosted the event in 2012, featuring the UConn men’s basketball team, and again in a subsequent year. The 2023 game represents the 10th edition of the Armed forces Classic.
Louisville head coach Jeff Walz expressed cautious optimism, telling WDRB’s Eric Crawford this week, “Our first game, as you know, is hopefully going to be on the Air Force base - if we open back up. We’re closed right now, our country.”
UConn has declined to comment on the situation.
Originally envisioned as a unique possibility to connect with and honor military personnel, UConn head coach Geno Auriemma stated last November, “We want to do as much as we possibly can, both personally and team-wise, to support our armed forces. I’m glad we’re getting the opportunity to go overseas and have many of our military members see us play in person. I know it’ll be an experience of a lifetime for everyone in our program.”
Despite potential relocation,the game is still scheduled to be played on November 4,pitting the Huskies against the Louisville Cardinals.
