RALEIGH, N.C. — The defining factor of the last two NCAA men’s basketball tournaments wasn’t just UConn’s victory, but the undeniable aura of dominance surrounding the team. Across twelve crucial win-or-go-home games, UConn appeared unstoppable, defying the unpredictable nature of the event. There was never a doubt that UConn would emerge victorious every time.
As the Huskies arrived to prepare for their round of 64 game in the West Regional, the idea of a three-peat wasn’t a topic of discussion. Coach Dan Hurley acknowledged the shift in expectations, feeling a sense of relief and freedom going into the tournament without the weight of overwhelming expectations. The team was not seen as a top contender this time around, playing against Oklahoma in the 8-9 matchup, rather than vying for a third consecutive title.
The season had been marked by unexpected setbacks, including losses to teams not typically in the NCAA Tournament conversation. Despite early struggles and doubts, UConn found itself in a position to prove its worth on the national stage once again. The team’s journey had been vastly different from the previous championship years, but the players embraced the opportunity to compete with pride and honor.
Looking ahead, the question remains: How good is UConn truly? The team’s recent performances may cast doubt, but considering their history, coaching staff, and the thrill of being underdogs, anything is possible in the madness of March. With a mix of seasoned players and newfound excitement, UConn enters the tournament as a potentially dangerous contender.
Reflecting on past upsets and unlikely victories in March Madness, the Huskies understand the unpredictable nature of the tournament. With a renewed sense of purpose and a willingness to embrace the challenge, UConn aims to make a statement on the big stage once again.
If we can replicate that same level of performance and receive significant contributions from our bench players in the upcoming games, we could become a formidable force in this tournament. I sense that everyone shares this excitement and belief. Perhaps Coach Hurley is instilling confidence in a team that may have lacked that special spark in the past. A victory against Oklahoma, a team that fought hard in crucial SEC matchups to secure their spot in the tournament, could potentially reignite that March magic. However, even if things don’t go our way, that’s perfectly fine too. Following consecutive titles, UConn, particularly Coach Hurley, has been a focal point this season. His animated reactions on the sidelines towards officials, including the highly publicized incident where he asserted his coaching prowess, have garnered attention. A brief respite from the spotlight might be beneficial for us. Coach Hurley humorously acknowledged the team’s frequent media coverage, stating, “We’ve been in the news a bunch. We get talked about a lot.” Currently, we are flying under the radar, but a victory over Oklahoma could swiftly change that narrative. For more updates, follow Dan Wolken on social media @danwolken.bsky.social. Stay informed with the USA TODAY app, offering immersive news coverage, puzzles, audio stories, the eNewspaper, and more. This article was originally published on USA TODAY, highlighting UConn and Hurley’s unique journey in this year’s March Madness.
