Freshman sensation Liam McNeeley shines as UConn tops Gonzaga at MSG. Reports of UConn’s demise after the Maui Invitational are greatly exaggerated.
In a thrilling matchup reminiscent of late-March tournaments, the Connecticut Huskies triumphed despite losing starting big man Samson Johnson to a head injury for the final 31 minutes. The resilience of the Huskies was evident as they secured crucial stops in the closing moments, overcoming a challenging night of perimeter shooting to defeat the No. 8-ranked Gonzaga Bulldogs. This victory serves as a significant statement for UConn, likely propelling them back into the top 15 rankings this week.
Here are three key takeaways from UConn’s impressive win over Gonzaga.
Liam McNeeley is one of the five best freshmen in college basketball.
On a night when UConn’s Alex Karaban struggled from three-point range, finishing 0-for-7, McNeeley stepped up as the team’s leader. Standing at 6-foot-7, he showcased his elite skills and basketball IQ, finishing with a career-high 26 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and no turnovers. His ability to make plays when needed solidifies his status as a potential top-10 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.
UConn’s defense has found its footing.
After struggling at the Maui Invitational, UConn’s defense has shown marked improvement. The Huskies now play solid perimeter defense, which complements their offensive prowess. Despite shooting only 5-for-24 from beyond the arc, they managed to limit Gonzaga, one of the nation’s top three-point shooting teams, to just 6-of-16 from deep.
While Ryan Nembhard scored 16 points for Gonzaga, he had to take 15 shots to reach that total. Hassan Diarra’s 35 minutes of play highlighted his leadership on defense, while Nolan Hickman was kept scoreless. Another standout was Jaylin Stewart, who contributed 10 points, further showcasing UConn’s depth and player development.
Huskies dominate the boards, even without their big man.
The absence of Johnson raised concerns about UConn’s ability to compete inside against Gonzaga. However, the Huskies managed to out-rebound the Bulldogs, 35-34, and won the paint battle, 38-34. Tarris Reed, a transfer from Michigan, stepped up with 12 points and six rebounds off the bench, while Youssouf Singare provided valuable minutes despite foul trouble.
UConn’s victory over Gonzaga not only demonstrates their resilience but also keeps their hopes for a three-peat alive. With a promising roster and exceptional shot-making ability, the Huskies are proving they can compete at the highest level. McNeeley, in particular, is emerging as a player to watch.
