UConn powers USA

Associated Press

BRIDGEPORT, Conn.

Just after the United States routed Canada by 40 points, Geno Auriemma and his UConn greats posed for a group photo on the court.

The five UConn players, who helped the Huskies win 10 of their 11 national championships, received one last rousing ovation from the crowd. A fitting send off for the team from their adoring Connecticut fans.

Auriemma gave those same fans an opportunity to cheer on their former UConn greats early on, starting the five of them in the 83-43 romp.

It was virtual the same starting lineup he used in a win over France on Wednesday. The only change was putting Breanna Stewart into the group instead of Elena Delle Donne.

The Hall of Fame coach said it was the right thing to do.

That UConn five set the tone early defensively.

After struggling in their first two exhibition games in the first half, the Americans jumped all over their neighbors to the north.