Show Summary

On today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we dive into the Huskies’ 88-52 victory over Holy Cross, a game that highlighted the team’s immense potential and its lingering inconsistency. We examine the standout performances of players like Sarah Strong and Kaitlyn Chen, while also exploring Geno Auriemma’s decision-making as he tightens the rotation ahead of UConn’s toughest stretch of the season. With four ranked opponents in the next five games, the Huskies face a defining moment that will test their depth and resilience.

Show Notes

Opening

Thanks for making Locked On UConn your first listen every day. We’re free and available wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network — Your Team. Every Day.

Before diving in, we want to thank our listeners for your incredible support. Your enthusiasm has made us the only daily podcast covering UConn men’s and women’s basketball—the basketball capital of the world. As a token of our gratitude, we’re giving back. We’re donating 10% of our revenue to the Husky Ticket Project, sending kids to UConn games, and making monthly contributions to Bleeding Blue for Good to support impactful NIL initiatives.

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Segment 1: The Sarah Strong Era Begins

Freshman Sarah Strong stole the show in UConn’s win over Holy Cross, proving why she was the No. 1 recruit in the Class of 2024. After a quiet first quarter, Strong exploded for a personal 10-0 run in the second and finished with 22 points, seven rebounds, and two steals in just 25 minutes.

Strong’s basketball IQ and poise set her apart, earning comparisons to UConn legends like Breanna Stewart and Stefanie Dolson. Through seven games, she’s averaging 15.6 points and a team-high 5.9 rebounds while shooting 54.7% from the field. With a stretch of ranked opponents coming up, Strong’s consistency and versatility will be key to UConn’s success.

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Segment 2: A Tale of Two Halves

UConn’s win over Holy Cross highlighted their potential—and their struggles. A flat first quarter saw the Huskies shoot just 4-for-15, and they only managed a six-point lead at halftime. Geno Auriemma didn’t hold back, pulling starters early and calling out his team’s effort.

The second half was a different story. Sarah Strong dominated, Kaitlyn Chen delivered a career-best performance with 14 points and seven assists, and the team showed the energy and focus needed to pull away. However, the game underscored a season-long issue: the inability to sustain focus for all four quarters. With Louisville, Notre Dame, Iowa State, and USC on the horizon, those lapses need to be addressed.

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Segment 3: Rotation Decisions Ahead

The Holy Cross game wasn’t just about the win—it was about players proving themselves. Geno Auriemma hinted that the rotation would tighten as the schedule gets tougher, and some players seized their chance. Morgan Cheli set a career-high with eight points, KK Arnold showed aggression, and Ice Brady tallied six assists.

Looking ahead, UConn faces four ranked opponents in their next five games, a stretch that will reveal who Auriemma truly trusts in high-pressure situations. The rotation has leaned on stars like Paige Bueckers and Sarah Strong, but bench players like Cheli and Arnold have an opportunity to carve out larger roles.

As Geno put it, “These next three weeks will tell us a lot.”

Closing

Thank you for making Locked On UConn your first listen every day. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with fellow Huskies fans. Follow us on YouTube and social media for more updates and discussions.

Stay tuned—big things are ahead for UConn basketball, and we’ll be here to cover it all. Go Huskies!

Show Summary

On today’s episode of Locked On UConn Live, we’re breaking down the Huskies’ thrilling 76-72 victory over No. 15 Baylor. It was a hard-fought win that showcased UConn’s depth and resilience, even without Alex Karaban. Liam McNeeley and Samson Johnson stepped up in a big way, but it was Aidan Mahaney’s clutch shooting and game-changing threes that gave the Huskies the momentum they needed to pull off this huge victory. We’ll dive into all the key performances, turning points, and what this win means for UConn moving forward.

Show Notes

Introduction:

Recap of UConn’s nail-biting 76-72 victory over Baylor, emphasizing the significance of bouncing back against a tough opponent.

Player Performances:

• Liam McNeeley: Led the way with 17 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks, proving his versatility under pressure.

• Samson Johnson: Strong in the paint with 13 points before fouling out, providing key defensive and offensive contributions.

• Aidan Mahaney: The unsung hero with timely shooting, including back-to-back three-pointers in the first half that turned the tide for the Huskies. His poise and confidence were pivotal in UConn’s comeback and eventual win.

• Solo Ball: Chipped in 11 points, hitting key threes to keep the energy high.

Overcoming Adversity:

How UConn managed to secure this victory despite the absence of Alex Karaban, with younger players like Mahaney and McNeeley stepping up to fill the void.

Game Breakdown:

• First Half: Baylor jumped out to a 17-6 lead, fueled by their aggressive drives and athleticism. Aidan Mahaney’s critical three-pointers during UConn’s 30-18 run brought the Huskies back to within one at halftime.

• Second Half: The Huskies ramped up their defense, with McNeeley’s pivotal blocks and Johnson’s strong finishes in the paint helping to secure the lead. Mahaney’s confidence continued to shine with smooth ball handling and spacing on the floor.

Baylor’s Efforts:

• Robert Wright III: A standout with 22 points off the bench, keeping Baylor in the game.

• Langston Love and Norchad Omier: Combined for 30 points but struggled in the closing minutes as UConn’s defense locked in.

Looking Ahead:

This win reinforces UConn’s identity as a deep, resilient team that can adapt under pressure. With Karaban expected to return soon, the Huskies will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming matchups.

Stats Recap

• Liam McNeeley: 17 points, 8 rebounds, 3 blocks

• Samson Johnson: 13 points, 4 rebounds

• Aidan Mahaney: 12 points, 3 assists, 2 clutch three-pointers in the first half

• Solo Ball: 11 points, 2 three-pointers

• Robert Wright III (Baylor): 22 points

• Langston Love (Baylor): 16 points

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Thank you for tuning in to Locked On UConn Live, the only daily podcast covering UConn men’s and women’s basketball. Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and leave a review. Stay locked in, Huskies fans—big things are ahead! Go Huskies!

On today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we’re diving deep into the inspiring story of Gandy Malou Mamel, who is set to become the first Irish-born player in UConn basketball history. From a chance discovery in Ireland to her transformative journey to the United States, Gandy’s path is as remarkable as it is groundbreaking. Joined by special guest Kieran Quinn, who first scouted her and helped guide her stateside, we’ll explore her potential, challenges, and the legacy she’s building for Irish basketball.

Show Notes:

Segment 1: The Discovery and Potential

• Kieran Quinn shares the incredible story of how he first discovered Gandy.

• Insights into what made her stand out as more than just an athletic prospect.

• The process of realizing she could succeed at the highest levels in the U.S.

Segment 2: The Journey to the United States

• The challenges of transitioning Gandy from Ireland to the U.S., both logistically and emotionally.

• How Kieran’s family adapted to hosting her and what they learned through the experience.

• Pivotal moments in her development that cemented her potential as a future UConn player.

Segment 3: Gandy’s Impact and Legacy

• What Gandy’s commitment to UConn means for the future of Irish basketball.

• Kieran’s thoughts on her representing Ireland at such a storied program.

• The broader significance of her story for young athletes and the legacy she’s poised to leave.

n this episode of Locked On UConn, we break down why tonight’s game against Baylor is a must-win for the Huskies. We dive into the challenges Coach Dan Hurley and his team face, including the absence of Alex Karaban and how UConn can respond to adversity against a tough Baylor squad. We also explore the broader college basketball landscape, with the Big East starting hot in the Big East/Big 12 Battle and the ACC reeling after a disastrous ACC/SEC Challenge.

Show Notes

Segment 1: Why Tonight’s Game Against Baylor is a Must-Win

• The significance of the matchup against Baylor and what’s at stake for UConn.

• Coach Hurley needs to adjust his approach, not because of the officiating but because his team requires a new kind of leadership this season.

• The challenges of playing without Alex Karaban and the opportunity for young players like Solo Ball and Liam McNeely to step up.

• Baylor’s potential absence of VJ Edgecombe and how it impacts the game.

• The psychological importance of securing a high-major win to build momentum and quiet the critics.

• Connecting UConn’s season to Joseph Campbell’s The Hero’s Journey, as the team faces adversity and grows into its identity.

Segment 2: What UConn Must Do to Stop Baylor

• Filling the void left by Alex Karaban: How players like Ball, McNeely, and Reed can step up offensively and defensively.

• The importance of containing Baylor’s dribble drives, especially against their lightning-quick guards like Jeremy Roach and Langston Love.

• The battle in the paint: Tarris Reed’s role in containing Baylor’s Norchad Omier and preventing second-chance points.

• Strategic adjustments from Dan Hurley to optimize UConn’s chances against a vulnerable Baylor defense.

• Keys to victory: Balanced offensive contributions, disciplined defense, and staying composed under pressure.

Segment 3: Big East Starts Hot, ACC Struggles in Non-Conference Play

• Recap of the Big East’s strong start in the Big East/Big 12 Battle:

• Providence’s gritty win over BYU, led by Bryce Hopkins.

• Villanova’s thrilling OT victory against Cincinnati, with standout performances from Justin Moore and Eric Dixon.

• The ACC’s disastrous 1-9 record in the ACC/SEC Challenge:

• Highlights and lowlights, including Kentucky’s surprising loss to Clemson and dominant performances by Tennessee, Arkansas, and Georgia.

• The implications for both conferences moving forward, particularly for the ACC as it struggles to establish depth and consistency.

On today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we break down the Huskies’ upcoming matchup against Holy Cross, where experimentation and depth will take center stage. Then, we dive into Azzi Fudd’s inspiring return to the starting lineup after her standout performance against Ole Miss, highlighting her impact on the team’s chemistry and potential. Finally, we look ahead to UConn’s December gauntlet of ranked opponents and what it means for their season and tournament résumé.

Show Notes

Segment 1: Holy Cross Preview – A Night for Experimentation

• Previewing UConn’s game against Holy Cross and how Geno Auriemma uses these matchups to test rotations and build team chemistry.

• Discussion on Azzi Fudd’s potential return to the starting lineup and the ripple effect it creates for depth players like Ashlynn Shade, KK Arnold, and Jana El Alfy.

• Why this game is more about preparation for the brutal December schedule than the final score.

Segment 2: Azzi Fudd’s Return – A Spark for the Huskies

• Azzi’s journey back from an ACL and meniscus tear and her dominant performance against Ole Miss.

• How her return elevates the team as a whole and provides UConn with a luxury bench unit.

• Team-first perspectives from players like Ashlynn Shade and the evolving team dynamics with Azzi in the mix.

Segment 3: UConn Holds at No. 2 – A December Gauntlet Looms

• UConn remains No. 2 in the AP Poll, fueled by standout performances at the Baha Mar Women’s Championship.

• Paige Bueckers’ dominance and her Big East Player of the Week accolades.

• A preview of UConn’s challenging December schedule, featuring ranked opponents Louisville, Notre Dame, Iowa State, and USC.

• The importance of Quad 1 wins for the Huskies’ NCAA tournament résumé and how this stretch will define their season.

On today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we’re breaking down UConn’s upcoming matchup against Baylor and what lies ahead for the Huskies in this pivotal stretch of the season. We’ll dive into Dan Hurley’s interactions with officials and whether there might be a bias moving forward, Baylor’s scouting report, and the critical importance of Quad 1 wins as UConn navigates a challenging schedule. Stay tuned for all things Huskies!

Show Notes:

Segment 1: Dan Hurley and Officiating Concerns

• Recap of Hurley’s fiery sideline demeanor and his recent remarks about officiating.

• Discussion: Could this lead to an officiating bias against UConn?

Segment 2: Baylor Scouting Report

• Baylor’s season overview: Strengths, weaknesses, and notable performances.

• Key players to watch and pivotal matchups, including Omier vs. UConn’s bigs.

• How UConn can exploit Baylor’s defensive lapses in a potentially high-scoring game.

Segment 3: What Lies Ahead for UConn

• The importance of securing Quad 1 wins in the Big East, with limited opportunities remaining.

• Explanation of the NCAA NET Quad system and its impact on UConn’s tournament résumé.

• Discussion: Will the Huskies rise to the challenge, or will this stretch define their season?

Closing:

Thanks for making Locked On UConn your first listen every day. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts or on YouTube. Special thanks to our sponsors, Gametime and FanDuel. Go Huskies!

Let me know if you’d like me to adjust or expand on any part!

Show Summary:

On today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we tackle the overblown criticism of Dan Hurley, the Maui Invitational fallout, and why UConn fans need to hold the line. Dan Hurley’s fiery coaching style is under the microscope, but the narrative is missing key context—including the media’s tendency to ignore bigger issues in college sports. We also preview UConn’s upcoming clash against Baylor and explain why patience will be key for the Huskies this season.

Plus, we dive into the national college basketball picture: why Auburn is the frontrunner this season, Johni Broome’s dominance, and what makes this year’s wide-open field so exciting. Spoiler alert: don’t count out UConn just yet. All that and more on today’s show!

Show Notes:

Segment 1: Setting the Record Straight on Dan Hurley and UConn Basketball

• Addressing the backlash against Dan Hurley’s coaching style, including criticisms from the media.

• Breaking down Hurley’s sideline intensity and the context around his behavior.

• Debunking the myth that the Maui Invitational decision was about being a “sore loser”—with insights from UConn insider David Borges.

• Highlighting the program’s resilience under Hurley and the challenges of sustaining success in the NIL era.

• Calling out the hypocrisy in media coverage, comparing reactions to UConn’s losses with controversies in college football.

Segment 2: Game Preview: UConn vs. Baylor

• Key storylines for the Big 12-Big East Battle, including Alex Karaban’s expected return.

• Analyzing the matchup between UConn’s size and Baylor’s guard-heavy attack.

• Tarris Reed Jr.’s dominance in the paint and its implications for Baylor’s undersized frontcourt.

• Baylor’s reliance on the pick-and-roll and how UConn’s perimeter defense will be tested.

• Breaking down three-point efficiency, rebounding margins, and the importance of turnover control.

Segment 3: National Picture: Auburn’s Dominance and the Wide-Open Field

• Why Auburn deserves recognition as the team to beat this season.

• Johni Broome’s Wooden Award-worthy performances and Auburn’s balanced, versatile lineup.

• Celebrating programs investing in women’s and men’s basketball, following the UConn model.

• Highlighting the depth of college basketball this year and the absence of a clear, dominant team.

• Explaining why patience is key for UConn fans and how Dan Hurley’s coaching ensures long-term success.

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The UConn Huskies snapped a three-game losing streak in emphatic fashion, defeating Maryland Eastern Shore 99-45 at the XL Center. Despite missing leading scorer Alex Karaban due to injury, UConn dominated from start to finish, with contributions from both starters and reserves. Liam McNeeley and Jaylin Stewart each scored 16 points, with Stewart making his first career start. UConn showcased its depth and defensive prowess, setting the tone for a challenging upcoming schedule against Baylor, Texas, and Gonzaga.

Show Stats

• Final Score: UConn 99, Maryland Eastern Shore 45

• Top Scorers:

• Liam McNeeley: 16 points

• Jaylin Stewart: 16 points (first career start)

• Solo Ball: 12 points

• Aidan Mahaney: 11 points, 4 assists

• Jayden Ross: 10 points, 10 rebounds

• Tarris Reed Jr.: 10 points, 12 rebounds

• Bench Impact:

• UConn reserves outscored Maryland Eastern Shore’s bench 17-0 in the first half.

• Key Team Stats:

• Points in the Paint (1st Half): UConn 14, UMES 0

• Total Rebounds: UConn 48, UMES 22

• Largest Margin of Victory: 54 points

Takeaways:

• UConn:

• Improved to 35-9 at the XL Center under Dan Hurley.

• Used the game to build confidence ahead of matchups with Baylor, Texas, and Gonzaga.

• Strong bench contributions demonstrate depth even without Alex Karaban.

• Maryland Eastern Shore:

• Suffered their fifth straight double-digit loss.

• Limited to just 14 points in the paint compared to UConn’s dominance inside.

Key Moment:

After a slow start, UConn went on a 13-0 run early in the first half, capped by Jaylin Stewart’s first three-pointer as a starter, setting the tone for the game.

Up Next:

• Maryland Eastern Shore: At Longwood on Thursday.

• UConn: Hosts Baylor on Wednesday in the Big 12-Big East Battle.

Show Summary: “The Azzi Fudd Breakout Party”

In today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we’re breaking down the Huskies’ impressive performance at the Baha Mar Women’s Championship, highlighted by Azzi Fudd’s breakout game against Ole Miss. From her clutch moments to her journey back from injury, this episode celebrates her reintroduction to the basketball world. We also shine a spotlight on Jana El Alfy’s emergence as a key contributor and dive into UConn’s resilience in the face of adversity. Finally, we look ahead to the daunting December schedule, discussing how this team can rise to the challenge and solidify their championship aspirations.

Thanks for making Locked On UConn your first listen every day. We are free and available wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network—Your Team, Every Day.

Show Notes:

Segment 1: The Azzi Fudd Breakout Party

• Paige Bueckers dubbed it “The Azzi Fudd Breakout Party,” and it lived up to the hype.

• Fudd’s 18-point performance, including 12 in the second half, helped UConn pull away from Ole Miss after a third-quarter scare.

• Her adaptability stood out—shifting her game inside when her three-point shot wasn’t falling.

• Geno Auriemma’s praise: “This is the best version of herself physically since high school.”

• Discussion of Fudd’s journey back from her ACL and meniscus injuries, highlighting her dedication and determination.

• Takeaway: This wasn’t just a breakout; it was a statement. Azzi is back, and UConn is that much more dangerous.

Segment 2: Jana El Alfy and UConn’s Resilience

• Jana El Alfy’s critical minutes in the second half against Ole Miss, including clutch rebounds, blocks, and put-backs.

• Geno’s assessment of her role: Defense, rebounding, and efficient scoring.

• Her presence in the paint provided the steadiness UConn needed during Ole Miss’s third-quarter surge.

• UConn’s resilience: Overcoming turnovers and lapses to close strong and secure the win.

• Discussion of how performances like this build character and prepare the team for tougher challenges ahead.

Segment 3: The Road Ahead – A December Gauntlet

• UConn faces a brutal stretch with games against Holy Cross, No. 24 Louisville, No. 3 Notre Dame, No. 15 Iowa State, and No. 6 USC.

• Geno’s perspective on tough games: “We wouldn’t have learned anything if that lead went from 18 to 30.”

• Players to watch:

• Azzi Fudd: Can she build on her breakout game and continue to grow?

• Jana El Alfy: Will her impact in the paint remain consistent?

• Paige Bueckers: The team’s anchor and leader heading into high-pressure matchups.

• Sarah Strong: Freshman development and her role in big games.

• Challenges ahead: Facing physical, well-coached teams on the road and in neutral sites.

• Opportunities: A chance to prove themselves as championship contenders and prepare for the grind of March.

Closing:

This has been another episode of Locked On UConn. I’m Mark Zanetto, reminding you to stay locked on, stay connected, and never lose sight of what makes this program special. It’s not just about getting it done; it’s about doing it in a way that can’t be done any better. Go Huskies!

Show Summary

In this mini pod, we wrap up UConn football’s regular season, analyzing the highs, lows, and everything in between. With rankings fluctuating and the offense still searching for balance, this final game against UMass is more than just a matchup—it’s a defining moment. Join us as we break down the polls, key players, predictions, and what this game means for UConn’s future. Will the Huskies deliver a statement win? Let’s dive in!

Show Notes

• Intro: Wrapping up UConn’s 2024 regular season.

• Rankings & Polls:

• UConn is ranked 18th in the G5 Hive weekly poll, highlighting defensive and rushing strengths.

• Kelley Ford’s analytics ranks UConn 88th nationally—a sobering contrast to ESPN’s FPI and SP+ metrics.

• Offensive Analysis:

• A strong rushing game versus an inconsistent passing attack creates a predictable offense.

• QB uncertainty: Will Joe Fagnano or Nick Evers start?

• The importance of finding balance to evolve as a program.

• Game Predictions:

• SP+ predicts a 37-17 UConn victory.

• CBS Sports’ Brian Jones controversially picks UMass to win.

• Why this game is about dominance, not just victory.

• The Bigger Picture:

• UConn’s defense and rushing attack provide a solid foundation.

• The program’s need for offensive balance and consistency.

• This game as a stepping stone to set the tone for the future.

• Outro: Thanks for listening, and Go Huskies!