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.