At Final Four, Alex Karaban is UConn's 'old dog that just won't die' Alex Karaban, a 23-year-old forward for the UConn Huskies, has become a symbol of resilience and determination as the team advances to the Final Four. Known as the "old dog that just won’t die," Karaban’s nickname reflects his enduring presence on the court and his refusal to retire despite his age and the challenges of competing at the highest level. The term, borrowed from a popular idiom, has been embraced by teammates and coaches as a way to highlight his unyielding spirit and leadership. Karaban’s journey with UConn has been marked by consistency and excellence. A two-time team captain, he has been a cornerstone of the Huskies’ success, contributing significantly to their pursuit of a third national championship. This achievement would mark a historic milestone, as no player has accomplished this feat in over 50 years. The last team to secure three titles was the 1971-73 UCLA squad led by Larry Farmer and Larry Hollyfield. Now, Karaban is two victories away from joining that exclusive group, a goal that has become the focus of his final college season. The nickname “old dog” has become a recurring theme in conversations about Karaban. UConn center Tarris Reed Jr. humorously compared him to a dog that “just wouldn’t die,” a metaphor that resonated with teammates and fans. Karaban himself found the label amusing but acknowledged its relevance. “An old dog? Why an old dog,” he quipped when asked by a teammate, before laughing at the comparison. His coach, Dan Hurley, added a lighthearted twist, calling Karaban “the best babysitter” in the program, a title that underscores his role as a mentor and leader for younger players. Karaban’s impact on the team extends beyond his on-court performance.#dan_hurley #alex_karaban #uconn_huskies #tarris_reed_jr #silas_demary_jr
