Luck hasn’t been on UConn Huskies’ side this season. Things aren’t exactly looking good for the No. 8 seed in the West Regional. Their inconsistent performances and internal struggles can be a part of the reason for their bad performance. Luckily their defense, often a point of concern, played a pivotal role in their recent 67-59 victory over Oklahoma. And it was a win they desperately needed to keep their hopes for a championship alive! However, they have an even bigger challenge ahead of them now—Florida Gators.
The Gators couldn’t be more different from UConn. With a 31-4 overall record and a 14-4 mark in the SEC, they’re also riding a seven-game winning streak. So yeah, things don’t seem to be much in UConn’s favor for now. Just speaking of the stats, they are averaging 85.7 points per game, with a shooting percentage of 47.3%. These factors position Florida as the favorite in the upcoming Sunday matchup. But is there a way UConn can pull off an upset? There just might be!
Recently, the discussion surrounding the matchup fired up on The Field Of 68: After Dark. Analyst Matt McCall observed, “Danny Hurley’s going to have his team prepared because his team’s going to know that the entire country is picking Florida to win that game.” Being the underdog could fuel UConn’s motivation. They’ve bounced back from tough losses before—like rebounding from a Seton Hall defeat to beat Creighton. That resilience shows they can step up when the pressure is on.
Nov 6, 2024; Storrs, Connecticut, USA; Connecticut Huskies forward Liam McNeeley (30), forward Alex Karaban (11) and Connecticut Huskies head coach Dan Hurley react after a play against the Sacred Heart Pioneers in the second half at Harry A. Gampel Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
However, John Martin had different opinions, he claimed, “I just think he’s overmanned. Or outmanned.” But he did agree that there is a way for UConn to come out on top. “They get up 30, they take their foot off the gas. Or it could be that you know, Florida has some, you know, vulnerabilities.” He stated that using these lapses is the only way for UConn to win. However, this isn’t the only strategy for the Huskies to go for!
As Rob Dauster stressed that Alex Karaban must step up at the four, a position where Florida has dominated with its two-big system. “He has to find a way to be able to compete and win that matchup,” Dauster explained. Florida thrives on offensive rebounding, and UConn must limit second-chance opportunities. So according to the group, the main thing Florida’s head coach Todd Golden has to make sure is that the team doesn’t take the Huskies lightly.
Florida cruises past Norfolk State in NCAA opener
Florida entered the NCAA Tournament with high expectations—but also with a lesson learned. Last year’s first-round exit still lingered in their minds, keeping them grounded. This time, they weren’t looking past anyone.
“(We are) really fortunate and happy to be here,” head coach Todd Golden said before the game. “Winning the SEC Championship and earning the 1-seed is something that we’re really proud of. And we hope we’re just getting started.”
That mindset showed on the court. From the opening tip, the Gators dominated Norfolk State, never trailing in a 95-69 victory. Walter Clayton Jr. caught fire early, draining four threes in the first half—including a rare four-point play. Meanwhile, Reuben Chinyelu controlled the paint, using his size to overpower the Spartans.
At one point, Florida led by 32. Norfolk State fought back with an 11-0 run before halftime, but Golden wasn’t fazed. “They’re very well coached… I’m not necessarily concerned moving forward,” he said.
Coming out of the break, Florida quickly reasserted control. Alex Condon finished 12 points, then fired up the crowd with a massive block. Clayton reached a major milestone, hitting free throws to record 2,006 career points.
Jan 14, 2025; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Florida Gators head coach Todd Golden talks with Florida Gators guard Walter Clayton Jr. (1) and Florida Gators forward Thomas Haugh (10) against the Missouri Tigers during the second half at Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images
Golden knew this team had the experience of handling March Madness. “These opportunities aren’t promised,” he said. “Again, we hope to be here for a while and play multiple games. These are memories that these guys will have for a lifetime.” Can Florida keep rolling against the Huskies as well? Well, their chances appear to be good enough as in a recent interview Dan Hurley stated, “If it wasn’t for all my antics and viral moments, there would be more focus on what we’ve accomplished. It’s been an amazing run”.
Well, it’s surprising that Dan Hurley is already speaking in the past tense. Despite this detail, UConn might still pull off a victory, well at least McCall is hoping for them to do so. But will they? What’s your take on it?
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