In today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we discuss the upcoming 2024-25 nonconference schedule for the UConn men’s basketball team under Coach Dan Hurley. We explore the key matchups, the strategic scheduling, and how these games will prepare the Huskies for another successful season. Plus, we talk about the potential impact of key players and the exciting Maui Invitational.

Show Notes:

Segment 1: UConn’s Nonconference Schedule for 2024-25

Intro:

“It’s been an incredible offseason full of celebrations…but let’s turn our attention to whom we are playing. You’re locked on…”

Discussion Points:

• Overview of UConn’s nonconference schedule and its significance.

• The Maui Invitational: Facing top teams like North Carolina, Auburn, Michigan State, and more.

• Key games:

• Dec 8th in Austin vs. Texas

• Dec 4th home game against Baylor

• Dec 14th game against Gonzaga at Madison Square Garden.

Highlights:

• The mix of “buy” games against weaker opponents and challenging games against high-majors.

• Importance of these games for UConn’s NET and KenPom rankings, crucial for NCAA Tournament Selection Sunday.

Insights:

• The strategy behind scheduling these games to balance easy wins with tough competition.

• Preparation for the rigorous Big East schedule and the postseason.

Segment 2: Key Players and Potential Outcomes

Intro:

“Let’s discuss the key players and potential outcomes for UConn’s upcoming season based on their nonconference schedule.”

Discussion Points:

• Expected performances from top players like Samson Johnson, Solomon Ball, and new recruits.

• How these players will match up against top competitors.

• Insights on player development and team chemistry.

Highlights:

• Improvement of Samson Johnson and the addition of Tarris Reed.

• Nonconference matchups against significant bigs from Texas, Gonzaga, and Baylor.

• Impact on overall team performance and preparation for the season.

Segment 3: Coaching Excellence and Future Outlook

Intro:

“Let’s talk about why all of this is great, but I’m not worried because our coaching is so on point. We’ll be fine this season, and I trust them implicitly.”

Discussion Points:

• Hurley’s strategy for maintaining team performance and handling pressure games.

• Building momentum and excellence through consistent effort and improvement.

• Comparisons to legendary coaches and the importance of adapting to new challenges.

Highlights:

• Sustained excellence under Dan Hurley’s leadership.

• Insights on Hurley’s authoritarian but effective coaching style.

• Potential for facing off against top-tier teams in the Maui Invitational and other key matchups.

Advertisements:

FanDuel:

• “I love sports. I love them so much I never want them to stop. But as the playoffs wind down, we get fewer games. And the sports aren’t sporting like I want them to. But FanDuel lets me keep the sports going whenever I want. All I have to do is open the app and dream up bets any time I’m in the mood. And this summer, FanDuel is hooking up ALL CUSTOMERS with a boost or a bonus, DAILY! That’s right, there’s something for everyone, every day, all summer long! So, head over to FanDuel.com and start making the most out of your summer. FanDuel, Official sports betting partner of Major League Baseball.”

Conclusion:

• Recap of the key points discussed in the episode.

• Encouragement to fans to stay engaged and support the team through this exciting schedule.

• Teaser for the next episode and a call to action for listeners to subscribe, follow, and leave reviews.

Outro:

“Locked On has launched the first-ever national sports 24/7 streaming channel on YouTube and now it’s also available on Amazon Fire TV in the free Fire TV Channels app. Locked On Sports Today is here for you 24-7 covering the top sports stories of the day with the local experts of Locked On plus our national shows covering every league. Find Locked On Sports Today now available on the free Fire TV Channels app.”

“This has been another episode of Locked On UConn. I’m your host Mark Zanetto, asking you to stay locked in, stay connected, make sure your toughness meter is always rising, and as always, Go Huskies!”

Hashtags:

#UConn #LockedOnUConn #DanHurley #CollegeBasketball #MauiInvitational #NCAABasketball #UConnBasketball #Huskies #SportsPodcast #BigEast #NCAA