ON this episode of Locked ON UConn, host Mark Zanetto discusses the exciting news: Alex Karaban is back! From the suspense surrounding his decision to the implications for the team's future, we cover it all. Plus, a special shout-out to our amazing listeners and some exciting updates on UConn baseball and upcoming games. Tune in for a jam-packed episode filled with UConn love and insight!

There were stages of 'if he comes back,' 'when,' and 'I think he’s gone.' We'll be fine if he does. The contingencies if he takes his chances in the draft. For me, it was a myriad of emotions."

"I really would have liked Alex to go to either a team like the Spurs, Celtics, Blazers, Nuggets, a team that could use a player of his caliber. But with him coming back, I truly believe this makes them the odds-on favorite to be the no 1 team in the country for extended periods."

Discuss how his return allows Coach Dan Hurley and staff to create lineups maximizing speed and three-point shooting without sacrificing size and length.

Fan Reactions

Highlight fan reactions and the significance of Karaban's choice to "run it back."

Mark Zanetto: "Gotta hand it to Penfield for buying a message at Fenway Park for big Red Sox fan Alex Karaban, congratulating him on coming back. Kudos to Penfield for doing that—super thoughtful and something Alex responded to."

Season Outlook

Recap of Alex Karaban’s performance last season: averages, role as a key starter.

Expectations for Karaban: from 13-5 to a potential 17-8 guy.

Key upcoming games: Texas, Baylor, Gonzaga at MSG, and the Maui Invitational.

Mark Zanetto: "My wife doesn’t know it yet, but I’m going... just kidding! I wish. Auburn, Colorado, Dayton, Iowa State, Memphis, Michigan State, and UNC—some heavy hitters there."

Team Dynamics

Importance of Karaban’s leadership with new additions and returners.

Analysis of how Karaban’s return enhances the lineup with players like Liam McNeeley, Jaylin Stewart, and Samson Johnson.

UConn Baseball Update

Mark Zanetto: "We’ll talk HOOK C, UCONN BASEBALL TONIGHT IN NORMAL, OKLAHOMA, coming up after this."

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UConn Baseball Game Preview

Preview of the crucial game against Oklahoma: strategies, key players, and game analysis.

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