UConn Fast Break

We predicted Malachi Smith to UConn. One of us placed a very early wager on Steph Castle for NBA Rookie of the Year, and we were discussing it all season. In the latest episode, Aman, Patrick, and Madigan discuss the return of Alex Karaban, the newest addition to the coaching staff, and other roster movement this April for the Huskies. Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Solo and J-Stew are back. Two freshmen and a sophomore are in the portal, along with Aidan Mahaney. Liam McNeeley declared for the NBA Draft. We're waiting to hear from the others.It's going to be a new-look Husky squad next year, especially after the addition of Silas Demary Jr., a 6-foot-5 lead guard transferring over from the University of Georgia, where he averaged 13.5 PPG, 3.1 APG, and 3.9 RPG as a sophomore last season. The former Class of 2023 recruit from North Carolina checks off a lot of boxes as Dan Hurley and his staff assess their offseason needs.The offseason needs conversation is a bit incomplete with the future decisions of Tarris Reed Jr. and Alex Karaban still to come. In this episode, we discuss the portal movement, the Demary Jr. addition, and possible portal targets depending on Reed Jr. and Karaban's decisions.Enjoy!Photo: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

As we have stated all year, the only thing we knew to expect from the 2024-2025 Huskies was the unexpected.In the NCAA Tournament, that unexpectedness arrived in the form of UConn's best defensive performances of the season and a near-upset of top-seeded Florida in a rock fight that nobody would have predicted.Now that the season is over, Aman, Patrick, and Dan explore the possibilities for the future, including Alex Karaban's decision, possible coaching turnover, and potential targets in the transfer portal as the Huskies look to improve in 2025-2026. Surely, a Round of 32 exit will not suffice next season.Enjoy!Photo: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

After seeing a loss to Creighton in the Big East Tournament semis and the Huskies landing an 8-seed in a West Region with a wicked tough No. 1 seed, we're trying to find the right mix of caution and enthusiasm. At the very least, some Big East pride is on the line against the allegedly excellent SEC.In this episode, we discuss the two days at MSG, the NCAA Tournament bracket, and how the Huskies match up against Oklahoma. Also, we pledge our allegiance to Hass. Please consider sharing the podcast with a friend! You can also follow us on Apple and Spotify.Photo: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Despite an up-and-down ride through the regular season, UConn men's hoops finished with a respectable final record and landing spot in the Big East standings. The Huskies can still make some noise in the conference and NCAA tournaments, especially with their leaders playing so well and others emerging as contributors.In this episode, Aman, Patrick, and Dan discuss the wins over Marquette and Seton Hall, Dan Hurley's post-game comments on Saturday, and his appearance on the national news show 60 Minutes, where we had a chance to get an inside look behind the scenes in the life of UConn's head coach. We also talk postseason expectations for MSG and beyond.Enjoy!Photo: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

This week, Aman, Dan, and Patrick discuss the wins over Georgetown and Providence and whether this stretch of consistent victories means anything for the future. Also, Tarris Reed Jr. is becoming a problem (for opposing teams).We also preview the Marquette matchup and get into postseason projections, including how things might shake out for the Huskies now that we know a bit more about their seeding future.Enjoy!Photo: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Through 27 games, we have a pretty solid idea of what this UConn men's basketball team is all about. The roster has some real limitations and at this point, it seems unlikely that the Huskies can wash away the inconsistency they've shown as a group throughout the season. But all is not lost, some upside still exists. If you're feeling any panic, anger, or agony, that might be misplaced. The future remains bright for this program. Not being able to win three championships in a row is not an indictment of anyone's abilities.We're taking the long view here at the Fast Break Podcast. It could be a lot worse…Photo: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

What a weird, rollercoaster of a week.It's been a weird season as a whole, with many surprises, including untimely losses and player arcs that haven't gone as hoped. Some of the wins have been surprising as well.Being down 14 at one point in a game against DePaul was unexpected, almost as unexpected as the eventual UConn win after the way that contest started.Liam McNeeley dropping 38 points to win at Creighton in his first start back from injury was an incredible surprise.That they followed it up with one of the ugliest single-game collapses in program history speaks to the high variance that's starting to define the 2024-2025 UConn men's basketball experience. In this episode, Aman and Patrick discuss the realities of adjusted expectations, roster deficiencies, and the outlook for the rest of this season. The only thing we know for sure heading into the last five regular-season games is that anything can happen.We also covered the NBA Dunk Contest, Tyrese Martin's new contract with the Nets, and future opportunities for Adama Sanogo.Enjoy!Photo: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Before his January 1st injury at DePaul, Liam McNeeley's start to the season was impressive enough. The five-star freshman had demonstrated scoring ability from all three levels, and great passing, and defensive prowess — the Huskies' defensive ratings were higher with him in the lineup. In his first start back from injury, he showed another level, willing the Huskies to victory in a place where they had never won. The win over No. 24 Creighton is another gold star on the Huskies' tournament resume.In this episode, the crew discusses McNeeley's breakout, reactions from the past week, including the loss to St. John's, and updates from the Huskies in the NBA. We also discuss UConn's argument for a higher tourney seed than its loss count would suggest, and if this season is more exciting than the last one because of all the unexpected ways the games have gone down.Enjoy!Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

In the latest episode of The Fast Break Podcast, Aman, Patrick, and Dan break down the Huskies' surprising performances against DePaul and Marquette, including a discussion on the booing that was heard at the XL Center last Wednesday.We also previewed the St. John's matchup as well as the NBA trade movement impacting our Huskies in the NBA.Enjoy!Photo: Twitter/X - @UConnMBB This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

It's been a tough ride for Dan Hurley and the Huskies lately in Big East play, especially with the injury to Liam McNeeley. Perhaps the freshman is more critical to this year's success than we thought, but we are seeing some positive developments for UConn despite these close losses piling up.In this episode, we discuss if there's any need to adjust expectations for the 2025 postseason, the growth of Samson Johnson, and what the Huskies need to improve before a February stretch of schedule that is going to be quite challenging. We also discussed the NBA All-Star Weekend Dunk Contest, which will feature two former Huskies! Enjoy!Photo: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

UConn men's basketball went 1-1 over the last week, with many highs and some lows across a tight loss to Villanova and the relatively comfortable win over Georgetown.Though the Nova game was marked by missed opportunities at the end, Dan Hurley's squad did not let that phase them as they traveled to Washington DC to face an improving Georgetown team on Saturday. After taking the Hoyas' best shot and prevailing, the Huskies have a week off from games before Saturday at noon when they host Creighton in another FOX game.In this episode, the crew discusses improved defense, the fellas stepping up, and Tyrese Martin, our UConn Fast Break NBA Player of the Week.Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Dan Hurley said it best: this season is no coronation. That's what Husky fans were getting used to. At the end of last season, UConn men's basketball was an inevitable monster, finishing with 13 straight wins and a second consecutive national championship bolstered by double Big East crowns after one of the most dominant postseason performances of all time.This year's team is capable of returning to the promised land, but it is not going to be as pretty or fun. The Huskies have a lot to improve on and with Liam McNeeley out injured, they'll have to grow up a lot over the next month.In this episode, the crew reacts to the rollercoaster Providence game and this roster's prospects without McNeeley. We also caught up on key storylines around the Big East and the glorious moment of Husky legend Cam Spencer sharing the court in an NBA game with his brother Pat.Enjoy!Photo: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

**An earlier version of this podcast was published containing dead audio due to technical difficulties. We apologize and promise to do better next time.**The UConn Huskies have shown tremendous resolve and poise as they began league play with wins over Xavier, Butler, and DePaul. They're hosting Providence on Sunday as they look to push their winning streak to eight, with potential for much more.The Huskies' next five opponents are: Providence (ranked 89th in KenPom), at Villanova (52nd), at Georgetown (66th), Creighton (53rd), and Butler (74th), before a visit to Xavier (51st) which could be somewhat challenging and a home game against DePaul (103rd) to close out the month. January 2025 should be kind to the record and a salve for the team's metrics.In this episode, the crew discusses the highs and lows of beating Xavier in OT, a close road win over Butler, and the rollercoaster experience against New DePaul. We also broke down Liam McNeeley's injury prognosis, key improvements over the last month, and the ceiling for this team.Enjoy!Photo: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Just when the haters and losers were ready to throw dirt on the Huskies, pushing them out of the top-25 rankings, Dan Hurley's squad has roared back into the national conversation with three straight statement wins.Beating Baylor without Alex Karaban was gutsy. They took care of business at Texas. And they reminded Gonzaga that it is forever destined to be inferior to UConn. In this episode, we discuss the starpower of Liam McNeeley, the growth and leadership of others across the roster, and the fact that Hurley's Huskies appear to have their mojo back after a rough ride through Maui.We also go around the Big East as UConn readies for league play with a home bout against Xavier on Wednesday.Enjoy!Photo: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Dan Hurley's new-look squad for 2024-2025 has yet to be tested so far this season, playing four teams ranked below 300 in KenPom to start the schedule. We've seen some guys emerge as major contributors early, while others are experiencing growing pains. But we don't know who Hurley will be counting on in March, not until the Huskies face some better competition.In this episode, the crew discusses early takeaways after four games, what the upcoming schedule (many tough games in Maui and early December!) portends, and reflections on the Big East competition and how things are shaping up across the league.Enjoy!Photo: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

UConn's quest for three-peat is officially underway, and we break down how the team looked in its first test of the new season. We also discuss Jacob Furphy's commitment and what he adds to an already loaded 2025 recruiting class. Lastly, the crew takes a look around the Big East and discusses the overall underperformance of the conference so far, plus some first impressions on future opponents Gonzaga and Butler.As the new season gets underway, we will be covering the Huskies' journey for title No. 7 all year long. Be sure to follow us here and at The UConn Blog for the best UConn coverage around! Thanks for listening. Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Dan Hurley and his staff are on an absolute tear on the recruiting trail, earning commitments from three top-30 prospects from the Class of 2025. As a result, we're expecting more trophies, more draft picks, and some exciting innovations on the court after the Huskies bring in two five-star combo guards and a skilled big man.In this episode, the crew discusses UConn's recruiting success, Big East Media Day, and the exhibition game against URI. Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Not too long ago, just a few years back, the prevailing mood for UConn men's basketball fans was fear.Will we be okay?Are our best years behind us?Can it ever be as good as it was?These were the haunting questions UConn fans were dealing with, most intensely from around 2016 to 2018, with a slight recurrence as Dan Hurley's early years saw consecutive first-round NCAA Tournament exits.Two years later, the “Hurley can't win the big game” or “Hurley can't win close games” boobirds have been shut up, as UConn finds itself in a much different position. Back in the fall of 2022, even the most optimistic of Husky fans could not have anticipated what was about to unfold. The way the Huskies followed a dominant championship effort with an even more dominant championship season proves that something very special is occurring.In this episode, the crew discussed: Updates on Huskies in the NBA, key questions for the squad heading into the season, and how to unpack all of the success of the last 24 months.Enjoy!Photo: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

We preview the NBA Draft from the UConn perspective, with our final takes on where the mock drafters have placed the fellas and some ideal landing spots for them. No matter what happens Wednesday night, it'll be a good one for the program.Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

The chase for the three-peat is on!UConn fans just survived a scary long weekend from Thursday to Monday with the news that the NBA was hot in pursuit of Dan Hurley. Rumors that the offer was for over $100 million added to those fears, but at the end of the day the man from Jersey City decided to stay close to home and keep building the dynasty. In this episode, our crew discusses the drama, our feelings, and the meaning of an offseason where your head coach turns down the University of Kentucky and the Lakers. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Good news everyone, Alex Karaban is coming back!In this episode, we discuss the implications of the Massachusetts native returning for a third season in Storrs, including the possibilities for him, for his team, and for his NBA Draft stock. This opens up some juicy lineup possibilities, from shooter-heavy small-ball to an extra-large squad with four guys 6-foot-6 or taller playing the two through five, and everything in between! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

The entire starting lineup from the 2024 national championship Husky squad is heading to Chicago for the NBA Combine. This felt like a good time to review the fellas' mock draft projections, what they've proven in their time at UConn, and any pro comparisons we may have.With all these Huskies in the draft mix, we're anticipating a busy few months following their workouts, the draft lottery, the NBA Summer League, and training camp for these UConn stars as they work to realize their professional dreams! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

After adding Tarris Reed Jr. to the roster out of the transfer portal, UConn has signed two more players expected to be immediate contributors: Liam McNeeley and Aidan Mahaney. With that plus the announced return of Hassan Diarra and the retention of every other underclassman besides the draft guys and Apostolos Roumoglou, UConn is once again set to be a national championship contender.In this episode, Aman and Patrick break down the additions of McNeeley and Mahaney while discussing the Huskies' prospects for next season and beyond. We also discussed nicknames, managing five-star egos, and the masterclass in roster construction that we've been witnessing. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

This time last year, we were wondering about the fates of Andre Jackson and Adama Sanogo while eagerly checking mock drafts for Jordan Hawkins' name. All three ended up leaving, along with a couple of others, leading to concerns for the next season with so much turnover in the lineup.That turned out alright, so we know Dan Hurley and his staff can re-tool. But the rebuilding job will be bigger this year.This offseason, mock drafts have as many as five UConn players on them, including Donovan Clingan and Steph Castle projected as early lottery picks, while Alex Karaban, Tristen Newton, and Cam Spencer are seeing late-first and second-round projections.In this podcast, we discuss the possibilities for Karaban, who may have a stronger case for staying than we think. He announced he would be testing the NBA Draft waters shortly after we recorded.We also discussed the potential roles for returning players, the commitment of Michigan F Tarris Reed Jr., and other potential transfer targets.Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Dan Hurley and the UConn Huskies did it. They repeated as national champs.Once the 2023-2024 Huskies got fully healthy, it was clear they were the best team in the country. But the best team in the country doesn't always win in March or April. This group took care of business with the Big East regular-season championship, tournament championship, and a dominant run through the NCAA once again.In the latest episode of the podcast, we discuss this UConn team's place in history after two dominant performances in Phoenix to earn the largest cumulative margin in NCAA Tournament history and wrap up a 37-3 season.We also covered Kentucky's failed courtship of Dan Hurley and what kind of future UConn has with Hurley at the helm indefinitely.Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

It's been said all year: UConn can win any kind of game and anyone on the team is capable of going off for 20 points.On Saturday night, it was Stephon Castle who tied a career-high with 21 while all five Husky starters scored in double-digits as Dan Hurley's squad bested Alabama to advance to the national championship game for the second year in a row.The accolades, the accomplishments, and the “firsts” continue to pile up for these Huskies. What they're up to is simply extraordinary and now they're 40 minutes from wrapping up a masterpiece of a season.In this episode, Aman and Patrick break down the Alabama game and the sights and sounds of Phoenix/Glendale. We also briefly discuss the Purdue matchup. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Illinois and its fans probably thought they were in good shape going into halftime on Saturday night. The game had been tied right before the break and they were giving the No. 1 team in the country as good a fight as anyone had thus far in the NCAA Tournament.They lost by 25.They tied the game with 1:49 left in the 1st half — nine minutes off the clock later, they were down by 30.In this episode, Dan and Patrick break down the Illinois demolition and discuss some of the special visitors who were watching alongside us in Boston.Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

This UConn team is extremely good.It has one of the most dominant centers in the country, two experienced, All-American-caliber guards, a five-star freshman who can lock up the nation's top scorers, and they round out their starting five with a 50-40-90 forward who started for last year's national champions.It's no wonder they blew past Stetson and Northwestern on their way to the Sweet 16.In the latest episode of the podcast, Aman, Dan, and Patrick discuss the continued excellence of Dan Hurley's Huskies along with the rise of Donovan Clingan. We also addressed the allegations that “everyone expected” this UConn team to be this great, as well as the Big East, conference pride, and expansion rumors.Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

We had a lot of fun at the Big East Tournament, didn't we folks? The UConn Huskies sure did, winning all three of their games comfortably despite some slow starts and other minor challenges along the way.Their prize? The top overall seed and their first four games will be in ideal locations, though they can expect to see some decently challenging opponents.In this episode of the podcast, Aman, Dan, and Patrick discuss the NEW emerging greatness on display from the UConn Huskies, especially the Jaylin Stewart outbreak, Donovan Clingan's dominant performance, and the excellence of the bench, as well as the East Region bracket and possible challenges within.We also took time to appreciate the drivers of success in Dan Hurley's program, including the retention, development, and ability to bring in high-character players and coaches to be part of it.Enjoy!Recommended Reading:UConn plowed through the Big East fieldUConn overwhelms St. John's in Big East tournament semisKimani Young on his path to UConn and lessons from the climb This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

These UConn Huskies appear to be unflappable.If it wasn't for a few injuries or an insane shooting night from Creighton in Omaha, it's wild to think that a regular season with 28 wins could have gone even better.After 31 games, UConn won all but three, setting multiple program and league records along the way. Four players were honored on the Big East all-league teams and more honors are likely coming.In this episode of the podcast, we try to put all of this success in perspective while also discussing the Big East tournament path and why tickets to the postseason games are so expensive.Also, if you happen to be in New York City for the Big East Tournament, we're co-hosting a happy hour event at The Landing Penn Plaza after the game! Members of our team will be there along with some friends, including a UConn alum on the leadership team at Barsys. This happy hour will be hosted in a lovely space right outside of MSG with great drink specials where you'll have a chance to meet fellow Husky fans and learn about some cool new cocktail technology!Things get started at 3 pm on Thursday, March 14. The address is 1 Pennsylvania Plaza, NY, NY. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

In this week's Fast Break, the crew ponders the meaning of Sunday's historic home finale, where we saw Jonathan XIV's final public appearance while the basketball team clinched the program's first Big East title since 2006.We also covered the emergence of Stephon Castle and Donovan Clingan as well as UConn's potential path through the Big East tournament bracket, ending with a discussion on the upcoming Marquette and Providence games. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

A week ago, UConn men's basketball took its first loss of 2024. The Huskies followed that with a big win over Villanova at Gampel. In their final home game on Sunday against Seton Hall, they have a chance to clinch at least a share of the Big East regular-season title before a tough two-game road trip to close out the season.This podcast episode covers all that plus UConn players' potential for Big East postseason honors and NBA Draft interest. Given Dan Hurley's disdain for mock drafts at this time, and what we know about the journey of guys like Andre Jackson, multiple Huskies can play their way into serious pro consideration depending on how the next few weeks shake out! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

The UConn Huskies' immense success is starting to feel like a burden. Will fans survive if nothing short of a championship will do?This podcast was recorded after the Marquette game and before the Creighton game. We didn't break down the Creighton matchup but did discuss the final stretch of the season and the fact that UConn could lose a game or two (it looks like that prophecy already came true).We've had a little bit of a delay in editing podcasts lately, our apologies. We promise to be in peak podcasting and publishing form in time for the postseason. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

We had some technical difficulties in getting this episode out after recording, so our apologies. It doesn't affect much but we intended for this to go out before the Georgetown game.In this episode, the crew discusses UConn's recent stretch of four games in nine days, the fact that the team is an absolute wagon, and looks ahead to the home stretch of the regular season — the final six games should be a wild ride!Thank you all for listening! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

In an episode of the podcast that went a little off the rails, our crew discusses the Huskies reaching the No. 1 ranking, the wins over Creighton and Villanova, and a wide range of additional items including Big East road destinations, Marquette's disappointing start, and whether UConn's players are appreciated enough.Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

The UConn Huskies are a well-equipped group. They're talented, deep, experienced, well-coached, and sitting (tied for) first in the Big East standings through six games. Our latest podcast covers the resolve of this team to keep up its winning ways.This stretch without Donovan Clingan has become an opportunity for other guys to step up and for the coaches to develop new wrinkles in the on-court strategy. It may be cliche to say the team will be better off for overcoming this adversity, but that is the case here. The Huskies are poised to earn a No. 1 ranking despite notable injuries to two key players and still have room to grow.We also discussed the weirdly quiet environment in Hartford for the Georgetown game on Sunday, minimum wage, squirrels, and what we were doing in February 2009, the last time UConn men's basketball was ranked first in the country.Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Enjoy!Photo: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

On the latest episode of the podcast, our crew runs four deep to break down the Kansas game, the Lawrence experience, and the Huskies' dismantling of North Carolina at Madison Square Garden. Our conclusion: this team is really, really good.We expressed a deep appreciation for Cam Spencer, the hero of the UNC game and a spirit animal for the most rabid parts of the fanbase, and Tristen Newton, whose extraordinary play has warranted All-American consideration. Meanwhile, a lot of guys off the bench, including Hassan Diarra, Samson Johnson, and Solo Ball (starting in Castle's absence), are stepping up in key ways.We also went around the Big East, looking through the highs (Marquette is scary) and lows (yikes Xavier, double-yikes Georgetown) of the league's performance through non-conference play.Note: This was recorded before the Arkansas-Pine Bluff game so some stats referenced may be out of date. A technical difficulty prevented us from sending this podcast out earlier, our apologies. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

UConn men's basketball has dominated the early schedule and even set an NCAA record along the way while also winning the Empire Classic at MSG by beating Indiana and Texas, comfortably.So UConn is good, great even.But… Stephon Castle is hurt. Donovan Clingan was hurt. The Huskies are still dependent on a lot of youngsters and they've yet to be tested in any serious way this season. They led for the final 30+ minutes of the Indiana game and wire-to-wire against Texas in those de-facto home games in NYC.That's about to change. On Friday, a deep and talented Kansas team is hosting UConn at the historic Allen Fieldhouse.In the latest episode of The Fast Break Pod, we discuss the keys to UConn's success thus far and we also previewed the matchup against Kansas and what this upcoming stretch, with ranked UNC and Gonzaga coming up, means for Dan Hurley's squad.Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

The UConn Huskies are 3-0 as they get ready to take on Indiana and possibly No. 19 Texas at Madison Square Garden this Sunday and Monday. But not everything is perfect in Storrs.Stephon Castle sat out the MVSU game with a knee injury suffered during the Stonehill game but not diagnosed until a day or two later, according to head coach Dan Hurley. Without Castle, the Huskies looked sluggish even in a big victory against the Delta Devils. It probably doesn't help that big man Donovan Clingan only recently recovered from an injury as well.In the latest episode of the podcast, Aman and Madigan discuss the MVSU performance, who's up and who's down across the team, and preview the Indiana and Texas matchups while also checking in on some scores around the Big East.Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Aman, Patrick, and Madigan hopped on the podcast to discuss the UConn men's basketball season opener and updates on the Huskies in the NBA.In an expansive conversation, we cover Alex Karaban's career-high performance, what we saw from the two new starters, including the debut of a five-star recruit, and the emergence of Samson Johnson. We also went through a few interesting possibilities for the lineup in the future.Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Basketball season is less than a week away!On the latest episode of the podcast, Aman and Patrick discuss how the competition is shaping up around the Big East. The Huskies were picked to finish third in the league, behind Marquette and Creighton, and will have a lot to prove after losing so many stars from last year's squad, while also facing new head coaches at St. John's and Georgetown that should improve those teams. Villanova has portaled, Xavier is always tough no matter what, and Seton Hall is one more year into the Shaheen Holloway project. At Providence, Kim English takes over after Ed Cooley's departure but he's inherited a strong roster.It's going to be a fun year for the league. For the Huskies? They'll have some growing pains and, in a year where they have a target on their backs, can expect everyone's best shot in the Big East gauntlet. We shall see. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

In this episode, Aman and Patrick start with a breakdown of the UConn men's basketball schedule. With practice starting, First Night on the horizon, a recent visit from a No. 1 recruit, and the season opener a month away, we've got a lot to talk about!In addition to highlighting visit-worthy road games and primetime contests, we also review the non-con slate, which features road games against perennial contenders Kansas and Gonzaga along with dates at Madison Square Garden against historic powers Indiana and North Carolina.The home out-of-conference games could be more entertaining, but they've got multiple trips to MSG to make up for it and the Big East schedule offers lots to chew on, including a primetime Gampel game against Villanova and opportunities to see Rick Pitino and Ed Cooley in their new jobs.We also couldn't help but discuss the Cooper Flagg visit, along with expectations for this season and updates on the Huskies in the NBA. Enjoy!Edited by Chelsea BrownPhoto by Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

The podcast crew had the pleasure of chatting with Aaron Jones, running back on the Green Bay Packers and cousin of UConn guard Tristen Newton. While Jones has made a career in football, he actually played some hoops for UTEP and clearly follows the game closely.The interview will be available to everyone through the end of this weekend but then it'll go into the archive for subscribers only. Please tell your friends about The Fast Break!In a wide-spanning conversation, the Pro Bowler discusses growing up with Newton in El Paso, Texas, his cousin's decision to return to UConn this year, seeing Bill Murray at games, and impressions of Husky head coach Dan Hurley after watching them make a championship run. He added that Newton has some solid football skills of his own.Jones also shared that he's ready to start following UConn football and already follows the women's basketball team. For the men's hoops squad, he said he's excited about what the team can do with Newton alongside Alex Karaban and Donovan Clingan. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

The Fast Break crew is proud to share that we had a lovely interview with Green Bay Packers running back Aaron Jones, cousin of UConn men's basketball's Tristen Newton.The full conversation will be available to our premium subscribers, but we have a clip to share here and a few others that went out on our social media.In this soundbite, Jones discusses what he's seen of Dan Hurley as a head coach, saying that he'd love to play for him. It seems like a lot of top prospects in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic agree.Subscribe to The Fast Break now to support independent UConn athletics news and reporting on the men's basketball team!Tell your friends — this is gonna be a cool one! The full version will be out tomorrow.P.S. In case you missed it, our football podcast came out this morning too. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

Our football podcast at Husky Football Forum just dropped, but we had to get another quick segment out after Jim Mora named Maine transfer Joseph Fagnano the starting QB.To get the first hour of our football season preview, listen here:For more info on this season of Husky football, be sure to check out the Husky Football Forum, our newsletter featuring original reporting, photos, and video, as well as the world's only podcast dedicated to UConn football!Here on The Fast Break, we'll have a new men's basketball podcast episode out soon, along with our news roundup on Monday, and an article on Dan Hurley's offensive evolution at UConn coming up as well! Photo Credit: Ian Bethune This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

This podcast was recorded in advance of the Huskies' European trip, as we got a chance to learn a bit about how things are shaping up for next year's roster from the team's public appearance the weekend before they left.In this episode, Aman and Patrick rapped on the state of the roster and how the Huskies will replace all of the production and leadership that's now in the NBA. The stats coming out from Europe indicate that we do have a lot of reasons for optimism as it relates to new or breakout stars for this year's squad.We also wrapped up on NBA Summer League after seeing Adama Sanogo, Andre Jackson, and Jordan Hawkins all do quite well, and also discussed the recent recruiting wins for Dan Hurley and his staff for the Class of 2024.Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

We had the pleasure of interviewing someone who has a wealth of knowledge about UConn's athletic history, because he's studied it!Clayton Trutor is a history professor and author of two sports books: Loserville: How Atlanta Remade Professional Sports (2022) and Boston Ball: Jim Calhoun, Rick Pitino, Gary Williams, and College Basketball's Forgotten Cradle of Coaches (2023).We briefly discussed his first book, but as you can imagine the bulk of our conversation was around Calhoun: the architect of the UConn men's basketball dynasty and a very unlikely giant of the sport.Trutor discussed how Calhoun officially accepted the Northeastern job in OCTOBER due to some highly unusual circumstances. The school was also readying to transition from Division II to Division I.In 14 years at Northeastern, Calhoun became the winningest coach in program history, a mark he still holds, and made four NCAA Tournaments in seven years as a D1 program. During this time, he developed the on-court and recruiting strategies that would help him reach Hall-of-Fame heights after he got the UConn job in 1986.It was also enjoyable to hear about the uniquely competitive environment around Calhoun in those days. While he was at Northeastern, Rick Pitino was at BU and Gary Williams was at Boston College before he took the Ohio State job in 1986. Trutor's book examines the conditions that led to these three legendary careers.I learned a ton from this conversation, about UConn, college basketball, and the history of the game. I hope you do too. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

It was a busy, exciting night for UConn fans as the NBA Draft was held last week in Brooklyn. With Jordan Hawkins on the Pelicans, Andre Jackson on the Bucks, and Adama Sanogo in Chicago, we discussed each of those players' situations and how they may fit on their respective rosters.Aman also made a bunch of very bad player comps. It's time to get creative, folks.Photo: NBA.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com

In the latest episode of our podcast, Aman and Patrick discuss the major addition of Cam Spencer, an experienced guard who shoots over 40% from three and led a decent Rutgers team in scoring last year after transferring from Loyola.With Spencer in the fold, Tristen Newton returning, and Andre Jackson, Adama Sanogo, and Jordan Hawkins leaving to pursue the pros, Dan Hurley's roster is nearly set for next season. They have one scholarship open, so we also talked about potential options for that spot.With the NBA Draft fast approaching, we also touched on the pro possibilities for Jackson, Sanogo, and Hawkins.Enjoy!Photo Credit: Twitter - @RutgersMBB This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theuconnfastbreak.substack.com