#uconn

Alex Karaban Preparing for Third Final Four with Veteran Leadership INDIANAPOLIS — Alex Karaban, a seasoned UConn forward, is stepping into his third Final Four as a mentor and leader for the Huskies, bringing a blend of experience and confidence to the tournament. With 150 career games for the program and 125 wins in his first 149 contests, Karaban has become a cornerstone of UConn’s success, embodying the team’s relentless work ethic and cultural expectations. His journey to this moment includes 19 NCAA tournament games, with only one loss in his career, a record that surpasses the combined tournament histories of several prominent programs. As the Huskies prepare for their Final Four matchup against Illinois, Karaban’s role extends beyond scoring—he is the anchor of a team that thrives on discipline, resilience, and a shared commitment to excellence. Karaban’s leadership is particularly evident in his relationship with younger teammates like Braylon Mullins, the Huskies’ standout shooter who hit a game-winning shot that will be remembered as one of the most iconic moments in NCAA tournament history. Mullins, a freshman, has yet to experience the Final Four, but Karaban has been there before. “When he stepped on campus, he wouldn’t talk to me,” Karaban recalls, noting how Mullins initially avoided interaction. “Now he’s comfortable, and he’s thriving.” This transformation mirrors Karaban’s own evolution from a freshman to a veteran who has navigated the pressures of March Madness, including the media frenzy, the unique challenges of playing in football stadiums, and the weight of high-stakes games. The 2026 Final Four represents a pivotal moment for UConn, a program known for its dominance in college basketball.#dan_hurley #uconn #alex_karaban #braylon_mullins #final_four

UConn’s Alex Karaban is a throwback to an earlier time. He’s aiming to do something no college player has done since the ’70s Alex Karaban’s journey at UConn has been defined by consistency, a trait increasingly rare in modern college basketball. As a senior forward for the Huskies, Karaban has spent every game in the same uniform, a feat that sets him apart in an era where players often prioritize early NBA drafts over long-term college careers. His dedication to staying at UConn for four years, rather than leaving after a single title, has positioned him as a unique figure in the sport’s evolving landscape. Karaban’s story is one of perseverance, academic commitment, and a refusal to conform to the fast-paced, profit-driven culture that now dominates college basketball. Karaban’s path to becoming a UConn legend began with his recruitment as a consensus top-50 player in 2021. Despite his early promise, he never became a flash-in-the-pan star. Instead, he matured steadily, balancing his athletic career with academic pursuits. He earned a degree in economics, graduating with a 3.39 GPA, and is now pursuing a certificate in non-profit management. His intellectual curiosity, rooted in a family of academics—his mother holds a doctorate in economics and his father is a software engineer—has shaped his approach to both basketball and life. Coach Dan Hurley, who has guided Karaban through his four seasons, has often highlighted the player’s quiet determination. Hurley described Karaban as a “responsibility of greatness,” a phrase that underscores the weight of his role on the team. While other players have rushed to the NBA, Karaban has remained committed to his college career, a decision that has paid off in both athletic and academic terms.#dan_hurley #uconn #alex_karaban #ncaa_tournament #huskies_of_honor

Boston College Names Luke Murray, Son of Bill Murray, as New Head Coach Boston College announced on Thursday, March 26, that Luke Murray, a highly regarded assistant coach from the University of Connecticut, has been hired as the new head coach of the men’s basketball program. The 40-year-old Murray, whose father is actor Bill Murray, will take over a program that has struggled to maintain competitiveness in recent years. Murray’s hiring marks a significant shift for Boston College, which has faced challenges in recent seasons, including a lack of consistent success and low attendance at home games. Murray’s career has been defined by his contributions to successful programs. During his fifth season with the Huskies, UConn secured national championships in 2023 and 2024, cementing its status as a powerhouse in college basketball. Under Murray’s guidance, the team achieved third-place finishes in adjusted offensive efficiency in 2023 and first place in 2024, showcasing his expertise in offensive strategy. His ability to design high-level offensive plays has been a key factor in UConn’s dominance, and Boston College athletic director Blake James praised Murray’s vision and leadership. James highlighted Murray’s role in shaping modern college basketball, stating, “In Luke Murray, we have found a leader who does not just understand the modern landscape of college basketball—he has helped define it. His role in building a national championship caliber program, his sophisticated offensive vision, and his relentless pursuit of excellence make him the perfect fit to lead our student-athletes.” Murray will join the BC coaching staff alongside his wife, Kara, and their family, marking a new chapter for the program.#uconn #boston_college #blake_james #bill_murray #luke_murray

Boston College Hires UConn Assistant Luke Murray as Head Coach Boston College announced on Thursday that it has hired Luke Murray, a former assistant coach at UConn, as its new head coach for the men’s basketball program. Murray, who has been a key figure in UConn’s success over the past several years, will take over a program with a rich basketball tradition and a strong academic reputation. The hiring marks a significant shift for the Eagles, as Murray brings a wealth of experience in building high-level programs and shaping offensive strategies that have led to national championships. Murray, the son of actor and comedian Bill Murray, played a pivotal role in the development of UConn’s back-to-back national championship teams. His contributions to the Huskies’ offensive system have been instrumental in transforming the program into one of the most dominant forces in college basketball. At UConn, Murray has worked under head coach Dan Hurley, serving as an assistant since 2021. His tenure has coincided with a dramatic improvement in the team’s performance, as UConn’s adjusted offensive efficiency rankings have consistently ranked among the top 30 in the nation since his arrival. Before Murray joined Hurley’s staff, the Huskies had finished 64th and 85th in the category over the previous two years, but they have never dropped below 30th since his hiring. In 2023 and 2024, UConn finished first and third in the nation in that metric, respectively, during their championship campaigns. Murray’s impact at UConn extends beyond statistical success. He has established himself as a top-tier recruiter and a strategic mind capable of adapting to the evolving landscape of college basketball. His ability to design and implement offensive systems that maximize player potential has been a cornerstone of the Huskies’ dominance.#dan_hurley #uconn #boston_college #bill_murray #luke_murray

UConn's Geno Auriemma Questions NCAA Tournament Setup, Prep FORT WORTH, Texas — UConn women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma once again criticized the NCAA for its decisions surrounding the women’s basketball tournament, expressing frustration over the organization’s approach to the event. Speaking at a news conference the day before his team’s Elite Eight matchup against Notre Dame, Auriemma reiterated his concerns about the tournament’s two-site regional format, calling the decisions “a goddamn game” that needs to be better understood. Auriemma, a 12-time national champion and the sport’s winningest coach, has long voiced dissatisfaction with the NCAA’s shift from a four-site regional format to a two-site model, which debuted in 2023. The NCAA has confirmed the two-site setup will remain for at least five more seasons. Auriemma argued that the current system creates logistical challenges for teams, including reduced practice time and inconsistent shootaround schedules. For example, the Huskies’ Friday shootaround was not held at Dickies Arena, the primary venue for the regional, while Notre Dame’s practice time was scheduled for the evening of the game. Auriemma noted that his team’s practice time was set for 6:30 p.m. that evening, highlighting the lack of flexibility in the schedule. The coach also criticized the NCAA for bringing in new equipment, such as basketballs and baskets, for the regional games, which he claimed disrupts the normal flow of play. Auriemma pointed to the poor shooting performances of teams in the Sweet 16, including UConn’s 4-for-20 three-point shooting, as evidence of the issue. “How many arenas are we going to sell out with that bulls---?” he asked, expressing skepticism about the NCAA’s focus on attendance over player performance. Other coaches echoed Auriemma’s concerns.#ncaa #notre_dame #uconn #geno_auriemma #david_benedict

First look at women’s NCAA Tournament Elite Eight: What to know about every game The NCAA Women’s Tournament Elite Eight is set, with four top-seeded teams vying for a spot in the Final Four. The matchups include No. 1 seeds UConn, UCLA, Texas, and South Carolina, each facing formidable opponents in the second weekend of the tournament. Live coverage of the games will be provided by The Athletic, with expert analysis from Chantel Jennings, Sabreena Merchant, Grace Raynor, and Cameron Teague Robinson. The outcomes of these games will determine which teams advance to the Final Four, with predictions varying among the analysts. The first game of the day features No. 1 UConn against No. 6 Notre Dame. The Huskies, led by coach Geno Auriemma, enter the matchup with a 53-game winning streak and a dominant postseason record. Their only loss this season came in a January matchup against Notre Dame, where they won 85-47. Despite a slower offensive start in the Sweet 16, UConn has yet to allow an opponent to score more than 20 points in the tournament. Notre Dame, however, has shown renewed confidence since the return of senior guard KK Bransford, who missed several games earlier in the season. The Irish have gone 11-2 since her return and have improved their team chemistry after integrating nine new players. Notre Dame coach Niele Ivey acknowledged UConn’s ability to dominate early, but emphasized the need for her team to maintain composure for 40 minutes. Analysts Chantel Jennings, Sabreena Merchant, and Cameron Teague Robinson all predict UConn will advance. The second game of the day pits No. 1 UCLA against No. 3 Duke.#notre_dame #uconn #ncaa_womens_tournament #chantel_jennings #sabreena_merchant

NCAA Tournament Elite 8: Key Matchups and Storylines for Sunday The 2026 NCAA men’s basketball tournament is entering its final stage, with two high-stakes Elite Eight games set for Sunday. The matchups will determine which teams advance to the Final Four, with underdogs and powerhouses facing off in a mix of history-making and high-stakes battles. The first game pits No. 1 Michigan against No. 6 Tennessee, with the Wolverines aiming to extend their dominance while the Volunteers seek their first-ever Final Four appearance. Michigan’s last Final Four run was in 2018, and they’ve shown resilience in recent rounds, including a 13-point victory over Alabama. The team’s guards, Trey McKenney and Roddy Gayle Jr., combined for 33 points and 6-of-9 shooting from beyond the arc in the Sweet 16. Tennessee, however, has struggled in the Elite Eight before, losing to Houston and Purdue in the previous two years. Despite a strong second-half performance against Iowa State, where they outscored the opponent by 13 points, the Volunteers face a daunting challenge against Michigan’s frontcourt. Key players like Nate Ament and Felix Okpara will need to step up to match the Wolverines’ firepower. The second matchup features No. 1 Duke against No. 2 UConn, a clash between a team chasing its first national title in 11 seasons and a perennial powerhouse looking to end a 16-year Final Four drought. Duke, the tournament’s top seed, has had mixed results in the tournament, with inconsistent performances in their first three games. The Blue Devils have dominated the free throw line, attempting at least 21 per game while their opponents have only reached the line 24 times combined. UConn, meanwhile, has struggled to get to the free throw line, averaging just 17.6 attempts per game, which ranks among the lowest in Division I.#michigan #duke #uconn #tennessee #ncaa_tournament_elite_8

Men's NCAA Tournament Expert Picks: Predictions for Elite 8 Games Sunday With half the Final Four field already set, the remaining two Elite Eight matchups on Sunday, March 29, will determine the final four teams heading to Indianapolis. The day’s action kicks off with No. 1 Michigan facing No. 6 Tennessee at the United Center in Chicago. The Wolverines, led by Yaxel Lendeborg, Elliot Cadeau, Aday Mara, and coach Dusty May, aim to advance to the Final Four for the first time since 2018. Michigan’s physicality and ability to dominate inside will be key as they seek to overcome Tennessee’s defensive presence at the rim. Tennessee, meanwhile, will rely on its frontcourt to disrupt Michigan’s offense while maintaining offensive efficiency. The Volunteers, led by Nate Ament and Ja’Kobi Gillespie, hope to extend their NCAA Tournament run for the first time in program history. Their success will depend on limiting turnovers and capitalizing on second-chance opportunities, especially against a Michigan team that has shown resilience against varied defensive strategies. The marquee matchup of the day features No. 1 Duke against No. 2 UConn at Capital One Arena. The Blue Devils, bolstered by Caleb Foster’s return and a balanced attack, aim to reclaim their place in the Final Four for the third time in four years. UConn, meanwhile, will need to rely on its defensive identity and the inside scoring of Tarris Reed Jr. to overcome Duke’s offensive depth and secure another trip to the Final Four. Expert predictions from USA TODAY Sports and the USA TODAY Network highlight Michigan’s potential dominance against Tennessee. Analysts note that Michigan’s versatility and depth, including contributions from Trey McKenney and Gayle, give them an edge over Tennessee’s defense.#michigan #duke #uconn #ncaa_tournament #tennessee

Men's March Madness: Predictions and Analysis for UConn-Duke, Michigan-Tennessee The Final Four has been set, with Illinois and Arizona securing their spots in Indianapolis. The remaining two teams will be determined by Saturday’s matchups, featuring Tennessee against top-seeded Michigan and UConn facing No. 1 seed Duke. ESPN analysts Jeff Borzello and Myron Medcalf provided detailed insights into both games, highlighting critical factors for each team’s success. In the Tennessee-Michigan showdown, the Volunteers face a daunting challenge. To reach the Final Four for the first time in program history, Tennessee must execute a flawless game plan. The matchup hinges on the performance of Nate Ament and Ja’Kobi Gillespie, who need to deliver a standout effort to overcome Michigan’s dominant frontcourt. Felix Okpara, with 10 blocks in his last three games, will also need to avoid foul trouble and anchor the team’s defense. Tennessee’s best chance lies in controlling the paint, where they hold the nation’s top offensive rebounding rate. However, Medcalf noted that an extraordinary effort will likely be required to defeat Michigan, which has limited opponents’ second-chance opportunities and forced teams into perimeter shots. Michigan’s path to the Final Four relies on its ability to neutralize Tennessee’s offensive rebounding prowess. The Wolverines’ jumbo lineup has frustrated only three teams this season, and their strategy of protecting the paint and limiting high-percentage shots could prove decisive. Medcalf pointed to Michigan’s success against Alabama, where the Wolverines forced 31 shots in the second half, 23 of which were 3-point attempts. By limiting Tennessee’s opportunities in the paint and forcing them into contested perimeter shots, Michigan could secure its place in the Final Four.#michigan #illinois #duke #uconn #tennessee

2026 NCAA Tournament: Bracket, Schedule, and Key Game Results for March Madness The 2026 NCAA men’s basketball tournament kicked off with a series of high-stakes matchups, culminating in dramatic Sweet 16 battles. No. 1 seed Duke narrowly defeated No. 5 St. John’s in a tightly contested game, while No. 1 Michigan dominated No. 4 Alabama. In other early-round action, No. 2 UConn edged out No. 3 Michigan State, and No. 6 Tennessee overwhelmed No. 2 Iowa State. The Elite Eight round began on March 28, featuring matchups between top-ranked teams and underdogs alike. The tournament schedule spanned multiple rounds, starting with the First Four games in Dayton, Ohio, on March 17 and 18. Notable early-round results included Howard’s thrilling 86-83 victory over UMBC and Texas’ 68-66 win against NC State. The First Round on March 19 saw several upsets, such as TCU’s 66-64 win over Ohio State and Nebraska’s 76-47 rout of Troy. High Point’s 83-82 overtime win against Wisconsin and Duke’s 71-65 victory over Siena highlighted the intensity of the initial rounds. As the tournament progressed, standout performances continued. On March 20, Arizona’s 92-58 blowout of Long Island University and Michigan’s 101-80 dominance over Howard showcased the depth of talent. The Second Round on March 21 brought more thrilling action, with Michigan’s 95-72 win over Saint Louis and Duke’s 81-58 rout of TCU. UConn’s 82-71 victory over Furman and Purdue’s 79-77 overtime win over Texas added to the excitement. The Sweet 16 round on March 26 and 27 featured historic matchups. Purdue’s 79-77 overtime win over Texas and Iowa’s 77-71 victory over Nebraska set the stage for the Elite Eight. Arizona’s 109-88 drubbing of Arkansas and Illinois’ 105-70 win over Penn underscored the dominance of top seeds. Meanwhile, Duke’s 80-75 victory over St.#michigan #duke #uconn #ncaa_tournament #march_madness

UConn vs Michigan State Basketball Game: How to Watch and Key Details The NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament will feature a high-stakes Sweet 16 matchup between No. 2 seed UConn and No. 3 seed Michigan State on Friday, March 27. The game, set for 9:45 p.m. ET at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., is a pivotal contest in a tournament that has already showcased an elite field of teams. The Huskies and Spartans will face off in a game that highlights the competitive depth of the 2026 tournament, with both programs boasting storied histories in March Madness. UConn, led by head coach Dan Hurley, enters the game seeking to extend its dominance in the tournament. Hurley, who guided the Huskies to national championships in 2023 and 2024, is aiming for his third title in four seasons. His team’s path to the Sweet 16 has been marked by resilience, including a second-round exit to eventual champion Florida in 2025. Michigan State, meanwhile, is represented by Tom Izzo, a three-time national champion who last won a title for the Spartans in 2000. Izzo’s team has been a consistent powerhouse in the Big Ten Conference, and this matchup offers a rare opportunity for the two programs to clash in the tournament’s second round. The game’s significance is amplified by the fact that it is one of only three matchups in the Sweet 16 featuring coaches with prior NCAA Tournament championships. The other such matchup involves Rick Pitino at St. John’s, making this a rare gathering of coaching legends. Fans and analysts are eager to see how these two programs will fare against each other, with the outcome potentially shaping the tournament’s narrative. For viewers, the game will be broadcast live on NCAA March Madness Live and accessible via Fubo, which offers a free trial. The event is scheduled to start at 9:45 p.m.#dan_hurley #uconn #tom_izzo #michigan_state #capital_one_arena

UConn's men's basketball program has become a dominant force in college basketball, with Dan Hurley at the helm since 2018. Under his leadership, the Huskies have compiled a 196-74 record, including back-to-back national championships in 2023 and 2024. Hurley has guided the team to the NCAA Tournament in each of the past six seasons, with a recent return to the Sweet Sixteen. His success is supported by a coaching staff that blends experience, expertise, and unique personal connections. The coaching staff includes four primary coaches: Hurley, associate head coach Kimani Young, and assistants Luke Murray and Mike Nardi. Murray, the son of actor Bill Murray, has carved his own path in basketball coaching. He joined UConn in 2021 after three years as an assistant at Louisville and has been instrumental in the program's recent success. Murray will soon take on a new role as head coach at Boston College, departing UConn after the 2026 NCAA Tournament. Young, who has been coaching since 2012, began his career at FIU before moving to Minnesota and eventually joining Hurley’s staff in 2018. Nardi, the youngest member of the staff, transitioned from a professional playing career to coaching in 2017, serving at Villanova before joining UConn ahead of the 2025-2026 season. Together, these assistants contribute to the Huskies’ strategic and developmental success. Beyond the coaching staff, UConn’s support team includes roles such as general manager, director of basketball administration, player development, and sports performance. These positions ensure the program’s operational and athletic excellence. The staff’s collective efforts have helped maintain UConn’s status as a powerhouse, balancing tradition with innovation. Hurley’s ability to assemble and lead such a cohesive team underscores his impact on the program.#dan_hurley #uconn #boston_college #luke_murray #kimani_young

Bill Murray is expected to attend the Michigan State-UConn Sweet 16 basketball game on Friday, March 27, following his recent appearances at NCAA tournament games. The actor, known for his roles in "Groundhog Day," "Ghostbusters," and "Caddyshack," was spotted at the Connecticut-UCLA second-round matchup on March 22 and the UConn-Furman first-round game on March 20. This marks his third consecutive season attending UConn games, including the team’s back-to-back national championship runs in 2023 and 2024. Murray’s presence at the Sweet 16 is anticipated, as he will likely be in Washington to watch the Huskies face the Spartans. Murray’s connection to UConn extends beyond his public appearances. His son, Luke Murray, is an assistant coach for the team, a role he has held since 2021. Luke, who previously worked under Chris Mack at Xavier and Louisville, is in his fifth season with UConn. This season will be his last with the program, as he has been hired as the head coach for Boston College. Luke’s coaching career includes stints at Post University, Wagner, Towson, and Rhode Island before joining UConn. His father’s support for the team is evident, as Murray has attended multiple postseason games, including the 2024 national championship, where Luke helped secure the victory. Murray’s fandom of UConn is rooted in his personal history. The actor, who graduated from Fairfield University in Connecticut, has long been a fan of the Huskies. His son’s role with the team has deepened this connection, making Murray a regular attendee at games. The actor’s presence at the Sweet 16 is not only a personal gesture but also a way to support his son’s coaching career. Fans of UConn may expect to see Murray at the game, given his history of attending key matchups.#uconn #michigan_state #bill_murray #luke_murray #sweet_16

WBB Faces Off Against No. 1 UConn In Sweet 16 Matchup In Fort Worth FORT WORTH, TEXAS -- The University of North Carolina Women’s Basketball team will face off against No. 1 seed UConn in a Sweet 16 matchup at Dickies Arena on Friday, marking the second consecutive season the Tar Heels have advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. The game, set for 5 p.m. ET on ESPN, will be the second meeting between the two teams in NCAA Tournament history, with the previous encounter occurring in the 1994 Elite 8. North Carolina, seeded No. 4, aims to reach the Elite 8 for the first time since 2014, while UConn, the defending national champion, enters the game with an undefeated record of 36-0. The Tar Heels, led by head coach Courtney Banghart, secured their spot in the Sweet 16 with victories over Western Illinois and Maryland. Key players Lanie Grant and Nyla Harris dominated the tournament, averaging over 15.5 points per game. Grant scored 20 points in the win against Maryland, while Harris posted a double-double in tournament action. A win against UConn would mark Carolina’s eighth Elite 8 appearance and its first since 2014. UConn, coached by Geno Auriemma, has remained undefeated since February 2025, extending its winning streak to 52 games. The Huskies’ star duo of Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong leads the team, with Fudd averaging 3 triples per game at a 45.4% shooting rate and Strong tallying 18.4 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. The Huskies hold a 9-5 series advantage over Carolina, with their last two matchups at neutral sites resulting in victories. A Tar Heels win would end UConn’s seven-game winning streak against the program. North Carolina’s NCAA Tournament run includes a 33rd overall appearance, marking its sixth consecutive season in the tournament.#university_of_north_carolina #uconn #geno_auriemma #courtney_banghart #dickies_arena

UConn's Geno Auriemma Criticizes Title IX Implementation in College Sports UConn women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma expressed concerns about the current state of Title IX enforcement, stating that the legislation’s intent has been largely abandoned in practice. Speaking ahead of his team’s Sweet 16 matchup against North Carolina, Auriemma argued that major college conferences have moved away from equitable funding for women’s sports, despite the law’s original purpose of prohibiting sex-based discrimination in education programs. Auriemma, in his 41st season as UConn’s coach and four wins away from his 13th national title, questioned whether women’s sports have reached a point where Title IX is no longer necessary. He pointed to the NCAA’s revenue-sharing model, which allocates $20.5 million per school, as an example of the disparity. “I don’t know that when you say we’re allocating $20.5 million, they’re going, ‘Yeah, well, women’s basketball is going to get the same amount as football and men’s basketball,’” Auriemma said. While some schools may strive to maintain equity in scholarships and opportunities, he argued that financial support for women’s programs has diminished over time. Title IX, enacted in 1972, was designed to ensure equal access to education and athletics for all genders. However, the college sports landscape has evolved significantly since then, particularly with the 2021 allowance of name, image, and likeness (NIL) payments for athletes. Schools now directly compensate athletes, but the Trump administration’s reversal of Biden-era guidance—requiring equitable distribution of these payments—has raised concerns. Critics argue that funds are disproportionately allocated to high-revenue sports like football and men’s basketball, undermining Title IX’s goals.#ncaa #uconn #geno_auriemma #title_ix #kenny_brooks

Diana Taurasi Discusses UConn's Rivals, Azzi Fudd's Draft Prospects, and WNBA CBA in Q&A Diana Taurasi, a three-time WNBA and NCAA champion, reflected on her collaboration with GREENIES to promote dental health for pets, calling it a natural fit given her lifelong love for dogs. The partnership, tied to the “Be Your Dog’s Mouthguard” campaign, aims to kick off March Madness by linking pet care with college basketball. Taurasi emphasized that GREENIES has been a staple in her household for years, serving as her pets’ favorite treat. The campaign encourages fans to pledge support for the initiative, with a reward of a free GREENIES bag for those who take the pledge if UConn wins the national championship. When asked about potential threats to UConn’s dominance in the NCAA Tournament, Taurasi highlighted South Carolina and UCLA as key contenders. She praised South Carolina’s steady improvement throughout the season, noting the team’s ability to peak at the right time. UCLA’s balanced roster, which no longer relies on a singular defensive anchor like Lauren Betts, also emerged as a formidable challenge. Taurasi acknowledged UConn’s strength, crediting senior Azzi Fudd and junior Sarah Strong for their leadership and the team’s consistent high-level play. Taurasi expressed confidence in UConn’s ability to repeat as champions, though she admitted the team’s undefeated season this year was impressive. She noted that Fudd’s resilience despite injuries and Strong’s growth into a key player contributed to the team’s success. While she acknowledged the difficulty of facing a team like the 2002 UConn squad, she deferred to experts for definitive opinions on historical comparisons. The conversation turned to Azzi Fudd’s potential as a No. 1 overall draft pick in the WNBA Draft.#ucla #south_carolina #uconn #diana_taurasi #greenies

North Carolina Women's Basketball Aims for Historic Upset Against UConn in Sweet 16 The North Carolina women’s basketball team faces a monumental challenge as it prepares to take on top-ranked UConn in the Sweet 16, a matchup that could mark a historic upset. With the Tar Heels needing to play their best game yet to advance to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2014, the stakes are high. The game, set for Friday night on ESPN, follows a weekend of contrasting performances: No. 4 North Carolina defeated No. 5 Maryland 74-66, while UConn dominated No. 9 Syracuse 98-45. A victory for the Tar Heels would propel them to the Elite Eight, a milestone they haven’t reached since their 2014 run. The two teams have followed vastly different paths this season. UConn, the 36-0 Huskies, have been nearly unstoppable in their pursuit of back-to-back championships, while North Carolina struggled to replace key players lost to graduation. Head coach Courtney Banghart described the team’s early-season struggles as “not good” during summer workouts, highlighting the challenges of rebuilding. Despite bringing in transfers Nyla Harris from Louisville and Elina Aarnisalo from UCLA, Banghart emphasized trust in her recruiting and development process. She admitted to being the “hardest she’s ever been” on a team in her 19 years as a head coach, a demanding approach that initially led to three early ACC losses. However, the Tar Heels have since turned their performance around, showing resilience and growth. Banghart credited her team’s progress to a focus on refining their strengths. “We showed them every day stuff they were doing wrong and stuff that they were doing right, and the right section was really small,” she said.#uconn #north_carolina_womens_basketball #courtney_banghart #lanie_grant #indya_nivar

Sweet 16 regulars UConn and Notre Dame join UNC and Vanderbilt in women's regional semifinals UConn and Notre Dame, perennial fixtures in the Sweet 16 of the women’s NCAA Tournament, have joined North Carolina and Vanderbilt in the Fort Worth Regional semifinals. These four teams, among just 15 that have reached the second weekend of the tournament 15 times, will face off in Friday’s matchups. The defending national champion Huskies, led by coach Geno Auriemma, will take on No. 4 seed North Carolina, while No. 2 seed Vanderbilt will square off against No. 6 seed Notre Dame. The games will feature two of the nation’s top scorers, with Vanderbilt’s Mikayla Blakes leading the country at 27 points per game and Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo ranking second at 25.8 points per game. UConn, with a 36-0 record, enters the semifinals on a 52-game winning streak, marking its 32nd consecutive Sweet 16 appearance and 33rd overall. The Huskies’ AP All-America players Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong, the latter a native of North Carolina, will look to extend their dominance. North Carolina, meanwhile, is making its 20th Sweet 16 appearance but had only reached the tournament once in nine seasons prior to last year. Third-year guard Indya Nivar emphasized the team’s growth, stating, “We want to keep growing it.” Vanderbilt, in its 15th Sweet 16 but first since 2009, faces a new challenge with graduate transfer guard Iyana Moore now starting for Notre Dame. Moore, who averaged 13.1 points for the Commodores over three seasons, will now compete against her former team. “She was a big part of our rebuild at Vanderbilt,” said Commodores senior Sacha Washington, Moore’s former roommate and close friend. “I’m excited to play against her and see what she’s learned.#north_carolina #notre_dame #uconn #geno_auriemma #vanderbilt

Women's March Madness results: UCLA, UConn, South Carolina cruise into Sweet 16; Virginia upsets Iowa to advance to first Sweet 16 since 2000 The second round of the women’s NCAA tournament concluded with a mix of dominant performances and unexpected upsets, setting the stage for the Sweet 16. Among the standout moments was No. 10 seed Virginia’s thrilling double-overtime victory over No. 2 seed Iowa, marking the Cavaliers’ first Sweet 16 appearance since 2000. The game, played at Iowa’s home court, saw Virginia push through a tightly contested match to secure a 83-75 win, sending the team to Sacramento for the next round. Meanwhile, top seeds UConn, UCLA, and South Carolina advanced without difficulty, showcasing their dominance. UConn’s 98-45 dismantling of Syracuse highlighted their firepower, with Azzi Fudd leading the way for the Huskies. UCLA’s 87-68 win over Oklahoma State was marked by a dominant performance from Lauren Betts, who scored 35 points in her final game at the Bruins’ home court. South Carolina’s 101-61 rout of USC further solidified their position as a powerhouse, with JuJu Watkins and Joyce Edwards playing key roles. Other notable results included No. 6 seed Notre Dame’s 83-73 upset over No. 3 Ohio State, a testament to the unpredictable nature of the tournament. Kentucky and West Virginia’s 74-73 overtime clash added to the day’s excitement, while Vanderbilt’s 75-57 victory over Illinois showcased Mikayla Blakes’ scoring prowess, as the Commodores built a commanding lead. The tournament’s second round featured a blend of high-powered offenses and defensive grit. Virginia’s overtime win over Iowa underscored the underdog spirit, while UCLA’s early control of Oklahoma State demonstrated their depth.#ucla #south_carolina #iowa #uconn #virginia

Orange Face #1 UConn in NCAA Tournament Monday Night Syracuse University’s women’s basketball team will face its most challenging test of the 2026 NCAA Tournament on Monday when it takes on top-ranked and undefeated UConn (35-0) in the second round. The game, scheduled for 6 p.m. on ESPN, marks a significant milestone for the Orange, who advanced to the second round after defeating Iowa State in the first round. Syracuse, seeded ninth, will look to continue its strong NCAA Tournament run, having reached the second round in eight of its last nine appearances. The Orange’s victory over Iowa State was fueled by standout performances from freshman center Uche Izoje and sophomore guard Olivia Schmitt. Izoje contributed 23 points, while Schmitt scored a career-high 15 points, including a crucial sequence of five consecutive three-pointers in the second quarter that sealed the win. Syracuse enters the matchup with a 24-8 record for the season, despite being picked to finish 13th in the ACC preseason poll. UConn, however, presents a formidable challenge. The Huskies have a storied history against Syracuse, with the Orange holding an all-time record of 12-41 in the series. The last Syracuse win over UConn dates back to January 2, 1996, a game that holds personal significance for current Syracuse head coach Felisha Legette-Jack. Legette-Jack, who was an assistant on that team, now faces her former mentor, UConn head coach Geno Auriemma, in a matchup that carries deep historical ties. Auriemma recruited Legette-Jack as an assistant at Virginia in the mid-1980s, but she chose to stay at Syracuse, where she became an All-American. Auriemma went on to build a dominant program at UConn, and the two coaches are set to meet again in the NCAA Tournament for the second time in three years.#syracuse_university #uconn #geno_auriemma #uche_izoje #olivia_schmitt