There is a bit of Italy re-emerging in the high-major women’s basketball scene after Elisa Pinzan and especially Lorela Cubaj and Francesca Pan, who recently won a historic bronze at the European Championships, even though this new face will not be able to wear our Azzurri jersey. She still deserves to be cheered for, for several reasons. It is not easy, in fact, to leave everything behind at 13 years old. Family, friends, home. Blanca Quiñonez, a forward born in 2006, did just that to chase a basketball dream, finding in Campobasso her second home. Today, that courage and determination have brought her all the way to Storrs, Connecticut, where she will wear the jersey of the reigning champions, UConn. Here is her exclusive interview.
Blanca, you were recruited by one of the most prestigious universities in the American basketball scene. Tell us how your first contact with UConn came about.
In past years, I had attended several summer camps with the NBA Academy, and during one of these, in 2022, the first contact arrived. Then they called my agency in April 2024, and we arranged another screening in the USA during a Basketball Without Borders camp. When they asked me if I wanted to confirm my commitment, I didn’t hesitate and accepted. Coach Auriemma and his assistants came back to watch me in the summer, but we didn’t get a chance to talk since it’s not allowed.
Had you received other offers as well?
Yes, and there were really many, including Iowa, Tennessee, Kentucky. After that meeting, rumors had already spread that I had signed with UConn, but in reality, at that moment I had not yet received any concrete offer from them.
When did you realize that Geno Auriemma and his staff were serious?
In September 2024, when he and his assistant came in person to Campobasso. At that moment, I understood that things were getting serious. We talked at length and found common ground on many goals, both personal and team-related. He conveyed great reassurance to me, and from that moment I knew that UConn was my path. Together with the staff supporting me, we also considered other offers, but in the end, you have to follow your heart. And mine was there.
But did Geno convince you by speaking Italian or English?
Let’s say a mix of English and the Campanian dialect (Geno is originally from Montella, Italy.). From that point of view, he is truly unique.
Do you remember where you were when you received the news that you had become a new Husky?
I was in front of the computer studying. I couldn’t believe it and I even got emotional at that news.
Have you already had the chance to meet your future teammates?
I went to Storrs in February while the team was deep into the March Madness run. I met Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd, Sarah Strong, and all the girls from last season — fantastic girls with whom I believe we will write more important chapters.
What impression did you get seeing the team up close?
I haven’t had the chance to see them live, but watching the games I noticed they run up and down the court for 40 minutes, always at a very high pace. It’s a team that likes to run, but above all defends very physically and aggressively. It’s the same spirit I experienced in Campobasso with La Molisana Magnolia Basket, and it’s also my way of playing. I’m convinced I will fit well into their schemes.
You, compared to your future teammates, already have professional experience. How do you think this will influence your role within the group?
In these four years in Campobasso, I have gained a lot of experience, both in Serie A and at the international level. I feel I can be a point of reference, especially in the most difficult moments. I want to be the one who brings the team together and leads them to victory. This is one of my personal goals, and it means a lot to me.
You left Ecuador very young to chase a dream. What impact did this choice have on your growth?
I left at 13, a crucial age for anyone dreaming of becoming a professional. Campobasso welcomed me immediately, and by 14 I was already playing in Serie A. But it was also tough because I had to grow up on my own, without my family. It was a continuous challenge, but it made me stronger.
How did you get into basketball? What did you like most about this sport?
Actually, at first I played soccer like my twin brother. Then, at a summer camp, they put a basketball in my hands, and I never stopped. Athletically, it was the sport that made me run the most, and I have been unstoppable since I was little. Also, my mother played basketball: you could say it’s a matter of “destiny.” What I love most about basketball now is the calm it gives me and especially the fact that it helps me understand myself better. I can’t do without it: if you take basketball away from me, it’s like erasing a part of me.
How did you end up in Campobasso and with Magnolia?
Actually, I had offers from Spain and Canada as well, but Magnolia gave me the chance to play immediately in Serie A. My mother was against me leaving for another country, but when we arrived in Campobasso, we both realized it was a special place. It’s no coincidence that I stayed for six years.
Your most beautiful memory so far?
The first and the last youth championship titles. I consider them important because they mark both the beginning and the end of a journey at the youth level, which obviously includes all the ups and downs, all the happy moments, all the tears, and all the friendships I have been able to build through this sport.
In the United States, women’s sports have a lot of visibility, unlike in Italy. How do you experience this transition?
Unfortunately, Italian women’s basketball is not very followed and, even worse, it is poorly supported by institutions. In America, I know it will be different, and I will have to get used to having all eyes on me. It’s not easy to go from “nothing” to “everything,” but I think this new challenge will be an opportunity and an extra motivation to grow. Moreover, this American experience could also help me if I return to Europe or Italy to play: having seen how things work overseas, I could contribute to growing the movement.
So, is it possible that you might return to our league after the NCAA?
My dream has always been to play in the WNBA: I’m fine with any team, but that remains my goal. However, this does not exclude the possibility of returning to Europe because obviously, you cannot predict what will happen in four or five years, so I keep all doors open.
What advice would you give to a girl who dreams of reaching where you have arrived?
My advice is to never give up. Dreams can come true, but it depends on how much we are willing to fight for them. It requires awareness, clarity in your goals, and a lot of sacrifice. Living as an athlete means giving up many things, like going out at night or having free weekends. But if you know what you want, none of this feels like a burden. Perseverance is the key.