On this episode of Locked On UConn, host Mark Zanetto discusses the potential impact of portal season and the need for contingencies if players like Alex Karaban decide to leave. Zanetto introduces 3 international players who could serve as replacements, highlighting their profiles and fit with UConn's style of play. Additionally, he touches on the importance of staying adaptable in the face of roster changes.

Zanetto also features prospects such as Samodurov, Prey, and Ajinca, analyzing their potential contributions to UConn's team dynamics. Each player's skill set and physical attributes are examined in detail, outlining how they align with UConn's basketball strategy.

The episode concludes with a look at the evolving landscape of college basketball, envisioning the Big East as a powerhouse conference by 2028, with potential additions that could elevate the league's status.

Host: Mark Zanetto

Topic: Contingency plans for Portal Season and international player profiles

Featured players:

Samodurov: Versatile big man with offensive potential and defensive versatility

Prey: Traditional big man with emerging offensive skills and strong defensive capabilities

Ajinca: Energetic wing player with shooting prowess and defensive versatility

Discussion on the future of the Big East conference and expansion plans to become a basketball super conference by 2028, including potential new member schools.

#transferportal  #international #uconnbasketball #connecticut #fiba #europaleague 

On this episode of Locked on Uconn, Mark Zanetto explores if Dan Hurley, the UConn head coach, might need to explore the transfer portal again, especially if Alex Karaban continues to impress at the NBA Combine and gets picked in the first round. Potential replacements like Jaylin Stewart and Liam McNeeley are already on campus. The discussion covers various prospects and their potential impact on the team, including Coleman Hawkins, Dillon Mitchell, Achor Achor, Supreme Cook, Lance Ware, and Liam McChesney.

Dan Hurley might need to dive into the transfer portal again.

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Alex Karaban's NBA Combine Performance

Karaban excelled at the combine, going white-hot from 3-point range.

Potential late first-round pick.

Dallas Mavericks could have used his shooting.

Discussion on Transfer Portal Prospects

Coleman Hawkins

High energy, all-around skill set, versatile defender.

Can guard in space, switch onto guards, and compete in the paint.

Strong ball-handling and passing for a big forward.

Decent outside shot with potential to improve.

Interest from UNC, K-State, Arkansas, Louisville, and potentially UConn.

Dillon Mitchell

Former 5-star recruit, explosive athlete with great length.

High-level defensive instincts, good in transition, efficient on offense.

Needs improvement in shooting.

Interest from Miami.

Achor Achor

Project player, 6'10", strong rebounder, and shot-blocker.

Intriguing potential, interest from Auburn.

Supreme Cook

Former Georgetown player, strong rebounder.

Physical presence, could fit into UConn's system.

Lance Ware

Former Villanova player, experienced, and could toughen up young players.

From Camden, NJ, and a former 4-star recruit.

Liam McChesney

International player, project type, could be the 11th man on the team.

Played at Utah State, Illinois State, and High Point University.

LinkedIn Jobs Promotion

Emphasis on finding quality professionals for small businesses.

LinkedIn Jobs helps find the right professionals quickly and for free.

Personal anecdote about successful hiring through LinkedIn Jobs.

Combine Performance Highlights

Mention of measurement mix-up between Stephon Castle and Devin Carter.

Impressive shooting stats for UConn players at the combine.

Donovan Clingan's standout performance and measurements.

Tristen Newton's decision not to play in 5x5 scrimmages.

#transferportal #collegebasketball #uconn #uconnbasketball #huskies

On this episode, host Mark Zanetto delves into the NBA draft landscape through the lens of UCONN basketball. Discover which NBA team UCONN fans hope to avoid when it comes to drafting their players, where top prospects are likely headed in the draft, and a breakdown of UCONN's all-time teams across multiple tiers.

Show Notes:

The Unwanted Team:

Identify the NBA team that UCONN fans prefer not to draft their players due to past experiences and organizational challenges.

Draft Predictions:

Speculate on the draft destinations of prominent UCONN prospects such as Steph Castle and Donovan Clingan based on their skill sets and team needs.

All-Time UCONN Teams:

Highlight and discuss UCONN's all-time basketball teams, featuring selections for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd teams based on players' contributions and impact during their college careers.

On today's episode of Locked On UCONN, we delve into Alex Karaban's decision and its potential impact on the team's championship aspirations. Host Mark Zanetto is joined by The Athletic's Tobias Bass to discuss how Karaban's return could transform UConn into a serious contender or leave them as pretenders in the college basketball landscape.

Alex Karaban's Return: Exploring how Alex Karaban's decision to stay at UConn would bolster an already talented squad.

Starting Lineup Projection: Tobias analyzes the potential starting lineup with Karaban back on the team.

Fan Base Perspectives: Tobias explains why some fans are more sold on Jaylin Stewart's NBA potential than on Solo Ball.

College Realignment Discussion: Insights into the future of basketball-first conferences like the Big East amid broader college sports realignment.

Impact of Realignment on Basketball Schools: Tobias weighs in on whether schools with both football and basketball programs might consider joining basketball-focused conferences like the Big East.

UConn's Two Rising Stars: Solo Ball and Jaylin Stewart

in This episode of Locked On UConn, host Mark Zanetto,  focuses on two rising stars who are the key players in keeping UConn on top: Solo Ball and Jaylin Stewart.

* Solo Ball: A crafty lefty guard with exceptional ball-handling and finishing skills, explosive athleticism, and a competitive spirit. Coach Hurley expects him to make a significant jump in his sophomore season.

* Jaylin Stewart: A versatile scorer with a smooth jump shot, athleticism, and positional versatility. His ability to create his own shot and contribute in multiple ways will be crucial next season.

The episode also discusses the potential impact of Alex Karaban's decision on the team and explores three potential additions to the Big East conference: Duke, North Carolina, and NC State.

Show Notes:

* Solo Ball:

*  

   * Ranked 44th nationally and 4th at his position in the 2023 class.

   * Vertical jump of 45 inches.

   * 6'10" wingspan.

   * Crafty lefty with a diverse finishing package.

   * Confident scorer with potential to develop his shooting.

   * Competitive spirit evident in every aspect of his game.

   * Expected to become a double-digit scorer in the upcoming season.

* Jaylin Stewart:

*  

   * Ranked 60th nationally and 12th at his position.

   * 3-tier scorer with ball-handling ability and a precise passing game.

   * Athletic and long.

   * Silky smooth jump shot.

   * Can get his own shot when plays break down.

   * Positional versatility allows him to play multiple positions.

   * Could be a key player if Alex Karaban doesn't return.

* Potential Big East additions:

*  

   * Duke: A traditional ACC powerhouse with a passionate fanbase and a history of success.

   * North Carolina: Another ACC powerhouse with a strong basketball tradition.

   * NC State: A multi-time national champion with a young, passionate coach.

* Top 10 Role Players in UConn History:

n this podcast episode of Locked On UCONN, host Mark Zanetto discusses impactful player additions to the UConn football team through the transfer portal. He highlights key players who are expected to make significant contributions to the team's performance in the upcoming season. The episode delves into the backgrounds, strengths, and potential roles of these players, including quarterback Nick Evers, running backs Cam Edwards and Victor Rosa, wide receivers Ezeriah Anderson and TJ Sheffield, offensive lineman Ja'khi "Tank" Green, and linebacker Jayden McDonald.

Show Notes:

Nick Evers (QB):

Former Oklahoma recruit and 4-star QB known for arm strength and mobility.

Evers brings a dynamic threat and outstanding intangibles to UConn.

Expected to excel in prolonging plays and creating opportunities.

Cam Edwards & Victor Rosa (RBs):

Edwards emerged with standout performances against Duke, USF, and UMass.

Rosa showed promise with a 71-yard TD run and aims for a healthier season.

Jayden “Mel” Brown (Portal transfer) adds exceptional speed and agility.

Ezeriah Anderson & TJ Sheffield (WRs):

Anderson, from Campbell and Iowa State, fills a significant role with his size and past performance.

Sheffield, a Purdue transfer, brings speed and versatility to the receiving corps.

Ja'khi “Tank” Green (OL):

Transferred from Charlotte, Green adds depth and experience to the offensive line.

Jayden McDonald (LB):

Graduate transfer from Indiana with a history of impactful seasons despite injuries.

Expected to anchor the UConn defense with experience and leadership.

In this episode of Locked On UConn, host Mark Zanetto explores the potential NBA draft prospects from UConn and the likelihood of them landing with the San Antonio Spurs. Mark discusses how the Spurs, under the leadership of Gregg Popovich, are known for their success and commitment to fundamental basketball. He analyzes the potential draft picks from UConn, including Donovan Clingan, McDonalds All-American Steph Castle, and Alex Karaban, and how they could fit into the Spurs' system.

Mark highlights the Spurs' draft position and speculates on potential draft scenarios based on the upcoming lottery results. He discusses the potential pairing of Clingan and Victor Wembayama in the Spurs' frontcourt, emphasizing their defensive prowess. Additionally, Mark considers how Castle and Karaban could bolster the Spurs' guard rotation and overall team depth.

Plus the Top 5 Huskies of All Time: Mark briefly highlights notable UConn basketball player

UConn's basketball program is making subtle but strategic moves that could pave the way for a historic third consecutive national title. The team's coaching staff, led by Dan Hurley, has been instrumental in retaining talent and adapting to new challenges. Despite losing key players, UConn is focused on reevaluating and strengthening its roster through careful recruitment and a sophisticated offensive system. The coaching staff's ability to develop players and maintain a winning formula sets UConn apart from other programs facing significant roster turnover and coaching changes due to the transfer portal.

Player Analysis: Detailed breakdown of UConn's potential lineup and the strengths of key players like Tarris Reed Jr., Samson Johnson, and Youssef Singare

Coaching Advantage: Emphasis on Dan Hurley's coaching philosophy and its impact on UConn's sustained success.

Recap of Top 5 UConn Players: A nostalgic segment discussing notable former UConn players like Khalid El Amin and Richard Hamilton.

On today's show, we dive into UConn's strategic approach to the transfer portal season, exploring how they prioritize team cohesion and player development over chasing top recruits. We also examine UConn's strong team culture and discuss the exciting prospects for the program's future. Stay tuned for all things Huskies on Locked On UCONN!

Segment 1: UConn Won Portal Season

• UConn prioritized retaining their young talent over chasing top transfer portal recruits.
• Key players like Solo, Jayden, Jaylin, and Youssef were crucial to the team's championship potential.
• Coach Dan Hurley emphasized the importance of continuity and development within the program.
• The coaching staff's strategic approach to the transfer portal demonstrated a commitment to team cohesion and long-term success.

Segment 2: UConn Culture and What's Next

• UConn's culture emphasizes replicating successful scripts and maintaining consistency.
• The coaching staff values players like Aidan Mahaney for their winning mentality and versatility.
• Focus on recruiting players who embody team values and contribute to championship aspirations.
• The program's culture is highlighted through the dedication of players and staff.

Segment 3: Monitoring Alex's Status and Future Prospects

• Discussion on UConn alumni and potential future appearances, including notable names like Boatright, Cole, and Bouknight.
• Excitement around the "Stars of Storrs" and potential summer appearances from former Huskies.
• Speculation on recruiting former players like Shabazz Napier and Alex Oriakhi for future engagements.

Welcome back to Locked On UCONN! Today, host Mark Zanetto joined by nationally syndicated radio host,  Aaron Torres, They dive into the pressing factors affecting UConn's pursuit of a third consecutive championship. Together, they explored the team's roster adjustments due to player departures and new transfers, analyzing UConn's potential to remain a dominant force in college basketball.

Aaron Torres shared his early top 25 rankings, sparking a lively discussion about the rankings of powerhouse teams like Gonzaga and Kentucky compared to UConn and other contenders.

The last segment of the show centered around Alex Karaban's pivotal decision about his future. Aaron provided valuable insights into Karaban's potential to turn pro or stay with UConn, while considering alternative options for the team's lineup should Karaban choose to depart.