As I sit here looking at the upcoming UConn women's basketball schedule, I can't help but feel that familiar mix of excitement and anticipation that comes with each new season. Having followed this program for over fifteen years, I've learned that every season brings its own unique narrative, and this year's schedule promises to deliver some truly compelling storylines. The quote from one of the returning players—"Next season I'm gonna show up, do what I do. We'll re-assess when the time comes"—perfectly captures the focused, determined mindset this team carries into what could be another championship run.

Looking at the complete game dates, I'm immediately struck by how the schedule builds toward what could be some truly epic confrontations. The season kicks off on November 6th against Ohio State, and honestly, I think this opening game sets the tone perfectly. The Buckeyes return three starters from last year's team that made the Sweet Sixteen, and facing them right out of the gate will test UConn's readiness immediately. What I particularly love about this schedule is how it gradually increases in difficulty, allowing newer players to find their footing before the really tough matchups arrive. The non-conference slate includes games against Texas on December 1st and South Carolina on February 10th—both potential Final Four previews that I've already circled on my calendar.

Speaking of key matchups, the January 25th showdown with Notre Dame stands out to me as potentially season-defining. These two programs have developed one of the best rivalries in women's basketball over the past decade, with UConn holding a 39-13 all-time record against the Irish. But records don't tell the whole story—last year's game came down to the final possession, and I expect nothing less this time around. Another game that jumps off the page is the February 3rd meeting with Tennessee. The historic significance of this rivalry can't be overstated, and having covered this matchup since the Pat Summitt-Geno Auriemma era, I can tell you the intensity remains palpable even years later. The Lady Vols have recruited exceptionally well, adding the nation's number 2 recruiting class, so this should be a tremendous battle.

The conference schedule presents its own challenges, with back-to-back road games against South Florida and Cincinnati in late January that could prove tricky. South Florida especially has become a consistent threat in the American Athletic Conference, and playing in their arena is never easy. What concerns me slightly is the stretch from January 15th to February 1st where the Huskies play five of seven games on the road. That's a brutal stretch for any team, but particularly for one integrating new players into significant roles. The travel alone—covering over 4,200 miles during that period—could create fatigue issues if not managed properly.

From my perspective, the most intriguing aspect of this schedule is how it sets up UConn for postseason success. The selection committee always weighs quality wins heavily, and with potential matchups against at least six teams currently ranked in the preseason top 25, the Huskies will have ample opportunity to build their resume. The December 8th game at Louisville particularly stands out—the Cardinals return four starters from their Elite Eight team and have added a transfer who averaged 14 points per game at her previous school. That environment will be electric, with over 12,000 fans expected at the KFC Yum Center, providing the kind of postseason-like atmosphere that prepares teams for March.

What really makes this schedule special, in my opinion, is how it balances traditional rivalries with new challenges. The addition of the February 17th game against Oregon gives fans a fresh matchup against one of the nation's most dynamic offensive teams. Having watched Oregon's development over recent years, I'm fascinated to see how UConn's defense handles their up-tempo style. The Ducks averaged 82 points per game last season, and containing their transition offense will require disciplined defensive rotations—something UConn has historically excelled at but will need to demonstrate against this particular opponent.

As the season progresses toward March, I'll be paying close attention to how the team manages the physical and mental toll of this demanding schedule. The quote about showing up and doing what they do suggests a team focused on daily improvement rather than looking too far ahead, which is exactly the right approach. From my experience covering championship teams, the ability to maintain that day-by-day focus while navigating a schedule filled with potential pitfalls often separates good teams from great ones. The February 24th regular season finale against South Carolina could have significant implications for NCAA tournament seeding, and I wouldn't be surprised if both teams enter that game with undefeated conference records.

Ultimately, this schedule represents both a challenge and an opportunity—a chance for UConn to test itself against the nation's best while building toward what everyone hopes will be another deep March run. The blend of veteran leadership and new talent creates fascinating dynamics for each matchup, and as someone who's witnessed countless seasons unfold, I can confidently say this schedule provides all the ingredients for another memorable chapter in UConn women's basketball history. The team's approach of focusing on the present while building for the future seems perfectly suited to navigate these challenges, and I, for one, can't wait to see how it all unfolds.

LIGHTING, LIGHTING, AND MORE LIGHTING
People are typically drawn to bars solely based on their atmosphere. The best way to knock your next commercial bar design out of the park is using the perfect amount and type of lighting. Use standout light fixtures as their very own statement piece, track lighting for adjustable ambiance, hanging pendant lights over tables, and ambient backlighting to display the alcohol. Bartenders need to serve and customers need to order, so make sure it’s just functional as it is attractive. 

CHOOSING YOUR BARTOP
What may seem so obvious, is often so overlooked in commercial bar design- the material of your actual bartop itself. While we realize stone and marble are as classy and elegant-looking as can be, the reality is that they just aren’t your best option for a durable and long lasting bartop. They crack, have no grip, and break way too many glasses. Opt for a high-quality wood bar instead. Oaks, maples, mahoganies, and ashes are sturdy and provide your customers with a firm grip for their glasses. 

THEME 
In a sea of millions upon millions of bars, how can you make your commercial bar design stand apart from the rest? The answer is to pick a unique, centralized theme and run with it. Whether it’s your next sit-down restaurant bar design, or remodeling the small, locally-favorite gem, you have to find out what your clientele wants. Survey the neighborhood of your establishment and find out what the demographics are there. Maybe a gritty, western bar would be a hit. Or maybe a more modern, sleek design is what’s missing in the area. Whatever theme you decide upon, hit it out of the park with the perfect lighting, wall art, music, and furniture. It’s all in the details. 

THE GUIDE TO YOUR NEXT RESTOBAR 
You’ve got the food, you’ve got the restaurant, you’ve got the customers, now all you need is a beautifully designed bar to top it all off.  Small bar designs for restaurants have a tendency to be a little thrown together and incohesive with the rest of the establishment. Stay on brand- create consistency with tying in the same color scheme, furniture, art, and overall ambiance of the pre-existing restaurant. Make sure the placement of your bar makes sense as well, have it in a place where it’s visible and easy to navigate but not in the way of servers and other guests. If the bar is going to serve food, be sure to consider the location of the kitchen to not obstruct traffic flow. Consider all of these small tips as you work through your next restaurant bar design. 

SPACE CONSTRAINT 
It’s no secret that bars have the reputation of being a little cramped, and in some cases- way too cramped. Consider all of the space constraints while designing your next commercial bar design and we can change that bad rap that bars have been holding for far too long. First and foremost, be sure to measure your bar, barstool, cabinet, and equipment height. Generally, a bar is 42” in height while a stool is 30” in height. Also be sure to allow at least 3’ of space between the bar and the alcohol for the bartender’s functionality and efficiency. Consider multiple register and drink-making stations for bartenders as well. Allowing 2’ between patrons is going to give them enough space to eat and drink, and most importantly, simply be comfortable. All of these considerations are especially helpful if it is a restaurant bar design, where the space is even more valuable.