UConn secured a 73-57 victory over UCLA, advancing to the Sweet Sixteen in the NCAA Tournament. Alex Karaban led the way with a career-high 27 points. UConn’s victory sends them to face Michigan State in the East Region semifinals.
Karaban’s Career Night Fuels UConn’s Win
Alex Karaban, who considered leaving UConn for the NBA in previous seasons, played a key role in the victory. Karaban said he came back wanting to win and enjoy his time in a UConn jersey. His 27 points helped UConn beat UCLA.
Karaban’s performance included multiple 3-pointers. Bill Murray and the UConn crowd reacted to each one. Karaban is a fourth-year senior pursuing his third national championship.
UConn’s Tournament Run
UConn’s coach, Dan Hurley, noted the team’s confidence after the first round. Hurley, who led UConn to consecutive national championships in 2023 and 2024, has the Huskies back in the Sweet Sixteen. Last year, UConn was eliminated in the second round by Florida.
Tarris Reed Jr. contributed a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds.
UCLA’s Struggles
UCLA struggled to contain Karaban and the rest of the UConn team. Xavier Booker led the Bruins with 13 points. UCLA coach Mick Cronin acknowledged their offensive struggles, stating, “Can’t score, can’t win.”
The Bruins were also without their leading scorer, Tyler Biloudeau.
Key Moment in the Game
UConn went on a 14-0 run. During a timeout, Bill Murray gestured “6-7”. Karaban punctuated the run with his fourth 3-pointer, extending UConn’s lead to 56-44.
The Huskies were not seriously challenged again.
Karaban’s Loyalty
Dan Hurley praised Karaban’s commitment to UConn. Hurley stated that no one has been better in college sports the last four years in terms of being a winner. Karaban has started all but one of his 147 games with the Huskies.
Karaban has now reached another Sweet Sixteen.
The games will go on for the Huskies as they continue their tournament journey.