X-Rays taken last week showed no break in Heather Buck’s right wrist. She underwent an MRI today in an attempt to discover the exact diagnosis of the injury she sustained during a fall in the second half at Baylor Dec. 18.
Buck, a junior post player, has labeled it “an unspecified wrist injury.’’ But all that matters to her right now is when she can return to action after missing UConn’s 72-24 win at the College of Charleston Dec. 21.
Buck, who practiced today for the third straight day, hopes to play Thursday when the Huskies host Fairfield at Gampel Pavilion (CPTV; 7:30 p.m.).
“I don’t really care what it’s called as long as I can play,’’ Buck said. “It’s been feeling a lot better. We’ve been trying out different splints and this is our first day trying this (one) out. And it’s been feeling a lot better. So we’re just seeing how things work, seeing what gives me the most … Not mobility, because it’s not really supposed to be mobile. But what’s the most effective, what is kind of keeping me pain-free but still allowing me to play.
“We don’t know for sure right now (if I’ll play against Fairfield). But I think so. I’ve been practicing, so hopefully. Today it’s actually feeling really good. It’s different every day. It just depends on how things go, how I’m catching, how I’m doing things. Like they say `day to day’ and it actually really is day to day. Some days it’s better than others.’’
UConn coach Geno Auriemma said that he expects Buck to play against the Stags.
“She practiced the last couple days so I don’t see why not,’’ Auriemma said. “I would think that provided that the splint that they have on there works and she can function with it I don’t see what she won’t be able to play.’’
Buck is averaging 5.5 rebounds and 14.0 minutes in the last four games for the Huskies. And she played impressive defensively against Baylor’s 6-foot-8 All-American center Brittney Griner.
“Our natural mindset is to not be happy and to always want more,’’ Buck said. “ But knowing that I would say, `Yes, I am happy.’ If I can get in and give good minutes to the team that’s really all I want to do. And if that means playing defense and rebounding then that’s fine.’’
Rich
Buck responded with meaningful minutes against Baylor and hopefully will continue to improve and contribute.Would like to see Stokes and Banks also see more action and the bench solidified with the remaining schedule ahead. Go Huskies!