In a performance that could only be described as “special” (and we mean that because Nika Muhl literally said so), Ashlynn Shade lit up the court as UConn Huskies bulldozed the Iowa State Cyclones in a jaw-dropping 101-68 victory. It wasn’t just a win; it was a basketball masterclass featuring Shade as the star pupil.
The Huskies’ social media team wasted no time hyping Shade’s electric game with a dramatic Instagram post. And guess who couldn’t resist hopping on the bandwagon? None other than former UConn standout and current Seattle Storm bench-warming philosopher, Nika Muhl. Her Instagram story featured the post with a single word: “Special.” Talk about economy of words!
Shade’s Performance: The Spark the Cyclones Couldn’t Douse
Shade wasn’t just good; she was torching the net like it owed her money. The stat line? A cool 27 points, two rebounds, and four assists. While Shade was busy stealing the spotlight, Sarah Strong quietly dropped 29 points, nearly clinching the game’s top scorer badge. Paige Bueckers, UConn’s golden girl, was also in the mix, proving she’s not just here for the post-game photo ops, with her 27-point contribution.
It’s safe to say the Cyclones didn’t see this coming—or maybe they did but just decided to watch the fireworks. Either way, their defense looked like a polite suggestion rather than a barrier.
Muhl: From Defensive Dynamo to Instagram Poet
Let’s take a moment to appreciate Nika Muhl’s journey. She’s not just your average WNBA rookie who spends more time holding water bottles than basketballs. This two-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year holds UConn’s single-season and all-time assists records. Sure, her rookie season with the Seattle Storm had her averaging 3.6 minutes per game (yes, blink and you’d miss her), but her potential is undeniable.
Post-season, Muhl went overseas to Turkey for a stint with Besiktas. Unfortunately, her international debut was cut short after she awkwardly landed during a jump, damaging her ACL. But leave it to Muhl to turn adversity into an Instagram motivational speech. Her recent gym snaps featured her squatting with weights and the caption: “If it don’t hurt, it won’t work.” Is it a workout mantra or the motto of every Huskies opponent facing Shade? You decide.
What’s Next for Shade?
With performances like this, Shade is making it hard for anyone to ignore her star power. And while Muhl’s “special” compliment might sound understated, it carries weight coming from someone who knows a thing or two about big-time basketball.
For now, UConn fans can bask in the glow of this dominant win. And as for Iowa? Well, let’s just say their defensive playbook might need a little Shade-proofing.
Stay tuned, folks—because if Ashlynn Shade keeps playing like this, one-word praises might not be enough. Nika, you might need to start writing essays.
