The UConn Huskies suffered their third loss of the college basketball season, this time in surprising fashion at home to the visiting Creighton Bluejays, 91-84.
The unranked visitors relied on excellent shooting, hitting 49 percent of their field goals and 48 percent of their three-point shots. Meanwhile, UConn struggled defensively, and despite 25 points from freshman Braylon Mullins and a double-double from big man Taris Reed Jr., was unable to mount an effective comeback.
Particularly puzzling for fans was four-year Huskies player Alex Karaban, who seemed off during the game. While normally a significant contributor and sometimes the team’s leading scorer, he finished with just two points on one field goal. Karaban also had four rebounds, two assists, and a turnover in the loss.
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At the postgame press conference, questions about the loss came in for Hurley, including several about Mullins and Karaban. During the game, Mullins had a brace or tape on his knee, and Karaban’s off-night was also a talking point.
Regarding his team’s performance, Hurley indicated that changes are “potentially” coming to the lineup, noting, “that first group is obviously lacking a perimeter defender.”
The UConn coach mentioned that he brought reserve Jayden Ross into the game, and he played 27 minutes, not just for “foul trouble” but due to his defensive skills.
“Just having a guy out there that can be disruptive and potentially shut someone down out there,” he said.
“Maybe I shouldn’t have played Alex today,” Hurley also told reporters, adding, “You know he said he was fine and he’s dealing with something physically. He was not moving well out there on the court.”
Karaban, a two-time champion with Hurley’s Huskies, is the team’s third-leading scorer, averaging 13 points on 47.5 percent shooting, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists.
Hurley called Karaban a “shell of himself” and possibly “wants to win so bad” because the season is nearing its end, with the Big East Tournament and NCAA Tournament approaching.
“We gotta figure out what’s going on with him physically, because he was moving around out there like a cargo ship,” the coach said.
UConn fans are hoping it’s good news on Karaban’s condition, as he is considered a veteran presence and leader for a potential championship contender. The No. 5 UConn Huskies next play at Villanova on Saturday, Feb. 21, at 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time.
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