In today’s episode, we break down UConn’s recent struggles, their drop in the rankings, and what needs to change to get back on track. We’ll analyze Dan Hurley’s comments about the team’s toughness, key player performances, and the upcoming must-win stretch that could define their season.

Show Notes:

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Segment 1: UConn’s Recent Struggles and Rankings Drop

A. Falling in the Rankings

• Dropped from #14 to #19 in the AP Poll and from #24 to #32 in the NET Rankings.

• Defensive struggles: Worst Defensive Rating of any team in the KenPom Top 50.

• Strengths and weaknesses—elite offense (#7 ORtg) vs. defensive lapses (#127 DRtg).

B. Key Areas of Concern

• Struggles without Liam McNeeley (2-2 without him).

• Rebounding issues: Currently ranked 273rd nationally.

• Samson Johnson’s rebounding struggles—more fouls per 40 minutes than rebounds.

C. Hurley’s Assessment

• Coach Hurley’s concerns: “Has success softened us?”

• Questioning the team’s ability to execute coaching points.

• Excitement about a change of scenery after the “haunting” Creighton loss.

Segment 2: Addressing the Defensive and Rebounding Struggles

A. Comparison to Last Year’s Team

• Last season’s dominance in rebounding vs. this year’s struggles.

• Guards not rebounding well compared to previous years.

• What does the rebounding issue reveal about the team’s overall toughness?

B. Karaban’s Injury Uncertainty

• How his availability as a game-time decision impacts rotations.

• Adjustments the team needs to make if he’s out.

C. Who Needs to Step Up?

• Hassan Diarra’s defensive workload led to late-game breakdowns.

• Solo Ball’s defensive improvement is needed.

• What needs to change to give Hurley confidence in his depth?

Segment 3: Must-Win Games and Season Outlook

A. Upcoming Schedule Breakdown

• Crucial stretch: Butler, Xavier, DePaul.

• UConn must win these games before facing tougher competition.

B. Butler Matchup Preview

• Butler is 8-10, with a recent win against Seton Hall.

• UConn must capitalize on Butler’s struggles (ranked #90 in KenPom).

• Keys to victory: controlling the boards, improving defensive intensity.

C. Long-Term Outlook

• Two matchups each against Marquette and St. John’s still to come.

• Can they build enough momentum before facing Creighton again?

• What’s at stake if they don’t fix their rebounding and defensive woes?

Follow:

Mark Zanetto @markzanettoCBB on X

Dan Meehan @DannyBigmeech on X