PHOENIX ? UConn sophomore Sarah Strong was named The Associated Press women's basketball Player of the Year on Thursday after a season that established her as the centerpiece of another dominant Huskies run.

In its award report, The Associated Press said Strong became just the fifth sophomore to win the honor after averaging 18.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.4 steals and 1.6 blocks while leading UConn to an unbeaten season entering the Final Four.

The award came just before the national semifinals, where AP later reported that Strong and UConn were held in check by South Carolina in a physical Final Four loss that snapped the Huskies' 54-game winning streak.

Strong's broader season profile was also reflected on ESPN's player page, which tracked her rise into one of the most efficient and versatile stars in the sport.

Even with the season ending short of a title, the award made clear that UConn's next era is already centered on Strong.