No. 11 UConn triumphed over Xavier, securing a thrilling 94-89 overtime victory in their Big East opener on Wednesday night. Alex Karaban played a pivotal role, scoring seven of his 20 points during the crucial extra period.
Solo Ball led the Huskies (9-3) with an impressive 22 points, while Tarris Reed Jr. contributed significantly with 20 points, including four in overtime, along with 13 rebounds.
In a dramatic turn of events, Liam McNeeley sank two free throws with just 12 seconds remaining in regulation after Xavier’s Dante Maddox Jr. tied the game with his fifth 3-pointer. A late foul by UConn allowed Maddox to again equalize the score with two free throws, leaving 9.4 seconds on the clock.
Ryan Conwell shone for Xavier (8-4), scoring 23 points, while Maddox finished the night with 22.
Both teams faced challenges due to missing key players. Zach Freemantle, Xavier’s top scorer and rebounder, is sidelined indefinitely with a lower-body injury, while UConn was without starting center Samson Johnson, who is in concussion protocol.
Takeaways
For Xavier, this matchup marked the second of three consecutive games against ranked opponents, a challenging schedule reminiscent of their 2017 NCAA Tournament run. The absence of Freemantle, who missed the entirety of the previous season, adds to their hurdles.
UConn, on the other hand, faced a unique situation. Despite being outscored 39-24 from beyond the arc, the Huskies managed to secure victory in their conference opener, showcasing their resilience.
Key moment
Early in overtime, with Xavier trailing by just one point, Tarris Reed Jr. delivered back-to-back baskets that propelled the Huskies to a two-possession lead, shifting the momentum in their favor.
Key stat
UConn capitalized on Freemantle’s absence, dominating the paint with a 50-28 advantage in points. Notably, eight of their overtime points were scored in the paint, highlighting their strategic approach.
Up next
The Musketeers will host No. 9 Marquette on Saturday, while UConn prepares to face Butler on the same day.
