10. Baylor Bears
12. Auburn Tigers
16. Texas A&M Aggies
19. Indiana Hoosiers
22. Texas Longhorns
25. Miami Hurricanes
28. BYU Cougars
29. Maryland Terps
31. UCLA Bruins
32. Oregon Ducks
34. Florida Gators
35. Ole Miss
36. USC Trojans
39. Mississippi State Bulldogs
41. Memphis Tigers
42. McNeese Cowboys
45. VCU Rams
46. Dayton Flyers
47. St Mary’s Gaels
49. UCF Knights
52. Clemson Tigers
53. New Mexico Lobos
58. SMU Mustangs
60. Nevada Wolfpack
61. TCU Horned Frogs
63. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
65. Syracuse Orange
68. Iowa Hawkeyes
70. Butler Bulldogs
71. Princeton Tigers
74. Oklahoma Sooners
75. West Virginia Mountaineers
76. Georgia Bulldogs
77. UAB Blazers
80. Missouri Tigers
Here’s where our TCH analysts have the Huskies ranked:
| Steven | Maxwell | Kam | Cody |
| 9 | 2 | 5 | 1 |
UConn Men’s Basketball: 2022-2023 Season Overview
The UConn Huskies enjoyed a remarkable 2022-2023 season, finishing with an impressive 31-8 overall record and a strong 13-7 mark in the Big East Conference. UConn showcased its depth and talent throughout the season, emerging as one of the elite teams in college basketball. They secured a spot in the NCAA Tournament, where they aimed to reclaim their status among the nation’s best. Key victories included decisive wins over Marquette and a thrilling showdown against Xavier, solidifying UConn’s reputation as a formidable contender.
Offensive Philosophy
UConn’s offensive approach was characterized by high-paced play and dynamic scoring options. Averaging 78.6 points per game, the Huskies emphasized ball movement and shooting efficiency. With a focus on both perimeter shooting and aggressive drives to the basket, UConn effectively exploited defensive mismatches. Key players like Adama Sanogo and Jordan Hawkins were pivotal, with Sanogo averaging 17.2 points and 7.7 rebounds per game, while Hawkins contributed essential scoring and spacing with his outside shooting. The team’s offensive strategy prioritized creating open looks and maintaining aggressive ball movement.
Defensive Philosophy
Defensively, UConn established itself as a powerhouse with a disciplined and aggressive style. Under head coach Dan Hurley, the Huskies limited opponents to just 64.1 points per game. Their tough man-to-man defense was complemented by a strong rebounding presence, with UConn averaging 39.3 rebounds per game. The defensive unit was anchored by versatile players like Andre Jackson, who excelled in disrupting opposing offenses and guarding multiple positions. This defensive intensity was crucial in securing many of UConn’s key victories.
Key Players
- Adama Sanogo: The standout center was a dominant force, averaging 17.2 points and 7.7 rebounds per game. His scoring in the post and ability to stretch the floor made him a central figure in UConn’s offensive scheme.
- Jordan Hawkins: A crucial scorer and perimeter threat, Hawkins averaged 16.2 points per game, utilizing his shooting prowess to stretch defenses and create opportunities for his teammates.
- Andre Jackson: A versatile forward, Jackson contributed significantly on both ends of the floor, averaging 6.7 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists. His defensive efforts were integral to UConn’s overall success.
Postseason Success and Looking Forward
UConn entered the NCAA Tournament as a 4-seed, generating excitement among fans and analysts alike. They made an impressive run, advancing all the way to the Final Four and ultimately capturing the national championship, solidifying their place in college basketball history. This championship run not only marked a triumphant end to the season but also laid the groundwork for a bright future. With a strong core returning and a talented recruiting class on the horizon, UConn basketball is poised for continued success in the 2023-2024 season.
UConn Men’s Basketball: 2023-2024 Season Overview
The UConn Huskies are entering the 2023-2024 season with renewed enthusiasm following their triumphant national championship run last year. With an overall record of 37-3 and an 18-2 finish in the Big East Conference, UConn has established itself as a premier program in college basketball. The Huskies aim to build on their success and continue their ascent in the national rankings, fueled by a combination of returning talent and exciting new recruits.
Offensive Philosophy
UConn’s offensive strategy remains focused on high tempo and versatility. The Huskies averaged 81.4 points per game last season and look to maintain this pace by enhancing ball movement and shooting accuracy. Key returning players, along with promising newcomers, are expected to drive the offense. Look for an emphasis on perimeter shooting and an aggressive inside game, creating opportunities for transition scoring. With the return of dynamic scorers, UConn aims to keep defenses guessing and exploit mismatches effectively.
Defensive Philosophy
Defensively, UConn aims to uphold its reputation as a formidable force. The Huskies limited opponents to just 63.4 points per game, maintaining a disciplined defensive scheme. Coach Dan Hurley will continue to emphasize aggressive man-to-man defense, complemented by a strong rebounding effort. With versatile defenders and a commitment to pressure, UConn’s defense will focus on creating turnovers and contesting shots, making it difficult for opponents to find their rhythm.
Key Players
- Tristen Newton: A first-team All-American, Newton was a solid force in the Huskies’ backcourt. His veteran presence contributed to winning plays on both ends of the court, averaging 15.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game.
- Alex Karaban: As a key perimeter threat, Karaban returns as a stretch forward, providing crucial scoring and floor spacing. He averaged 13.3 points per game on 49.5% shooting from the field and 37.9% from three-point range.
- Cam Spencer: Partnering with Newton in the backcourt, Spencer offered elite scoring and athleticism. He averaged 14.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, showcasing his two-way ability.
- Donovan Clingan: Known for his defensive prowess, Clingan anchored the Huskies’ second line of defense. In limited minutes, he was one of the most impactful big men in college basketball, averaging 13 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game.
- Stephon Castle: The number 9 recruit in the 2023 class, Castle started slowly but gained momentum by March. He started 30 games as a secondary ball handler and wing, averaging 11.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.9 assists, while showcasing both defensive prowess and offensive potential.
Postseason Success and Looking Forward
UConn entered the NCAA Tournament as a 1-seed, generating excitement among fans and analysts given their recent national championship. They made a dominant run, ultimately capturing the national championship again, solidifying their status in college basketball history as back-to-back champions. This remarkable achievement not only marked a triumphant end to the season but also laid the groundwork for a potential dynasty in the making.
UConn Men’s Basketball: 2024-2025 Season Preview
As the UConn Huskies prepare for the 2024-2025 season, they are looking to cement themselves as the second team in history to achieve a three-peat in consecutive national championships. Accomplishing this feat would place Coach Dan Hurley alongside the legendary John Wooden as one of the few coaches to do so. This challenge will be daunting, especially with only Alex Karaban returning as a starter, while the others have moved on to the NBA. Nonetheless, Coach Hurley has a proven track record of preparing teams for success, and I believe he will have this group of young men ready to embrace the opportunity to make history.
Key Departures and Returning Talent
The Huskies have lost pivotal players, including Tristen Newton, Donovan Clingan, Stephon Castle, and Cam Spencer, but they return several key bench contributors ready to take on larger roles. Alex Karaban, now a junior, steps in as the team leader and will be critical in guiding the offense. His ability to create plays and distribute the ball will be essential as UConn looks to maintain its competitive edge. Returning players like Hassan Diarra, Samson Johnson, Solomon Ball, and Jaylin Stewart are all poised to increase their roles and potentially have breakout seasons.
UConn has consistently demonstrated an ability to acquire depth from the transfer portal, and this offseason is no different. They successfully brought in two talented players: veteran guard Aidan Mahaney from St. Mary’s and big man Tarris Reed from Michigan, both of whom will enhance the roster’s depth and experience. Additionally, this may be the deepest roster Coach Hurley has ever coached, featuring recruits like Liam McNeely, a 6’7″ forward from Montverde Academy who was nationally ranked 11th, and Four-Star recruits Ahmad Nowell and Isaiah Abraham.
Key Players to Watch
- Alex Karaban: As the primary playmaker and team leader, Karaban’s leadership will be essential as he guides the Huskies through this season. After averaging 11.8 points and 6.1 assists last year, he is poised for a breakout campaign.
- Liam McNeely: A highly-touted 6’7 forward from Montverde Academy, McNeely is expected to bring athleticism and scoring ability, making him a key asset as he transitions to the collegiate level.
- Jaylin Stewart: A promising addition with shooting prowess and versatility, Stewart will be crucial in elevating UConn’s offensive game.
- Aidan Mahaney: The veteran guard from St. Mary’s adds a significant scoring threat, having averaged 19.7 points and 4.8 rebounds last season, and is expected to provide valuable experience.
- Tarris Reed: As a veteran big man from Michigan, Reed will bolster UConn’s frontcourt depth, providing a strong inside presence as the team adjusts to the season.
The Road Ahead
With much of the rotational core returning, alongside talented veteran transfers and recruits, UConn is well-positioned to contend in the Big East and pursue another national championship. Coach Hurley’s proven track record of developing talent and utilizing depth will be invaluable as the team faces the challenges of the season.
Goals and Expectations
The Huskies have championship aspirations as they begin the season, aiming to reclaim their position among the top teams in college basketball. They return 43.8% of their minutes from last season and 38.6% of their scoring output. As UConn embarks on this challenging yet promising journey toward a potential three-peat, the focus is not only on building upon their championship legacy but also on developing the next generation of talent. This season promises to be a pivotal moment in their storied history.
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