The University of Connecticut’s men’s basketball team secured a convincing 72-54 victory against DePaul on December 21, 2025, in Chicago. Despite missing their leading scorer Solo Ball, the Huskies demonstrated their resilience and depth, overcoming a slow start and a challenging first half to dominate the game.
UConn, now boasting an 11-1 record, faced a tough challenge from DePaul, who entered the matchup with an 8-5 record. The Blue Demons’ defensive intensity forced the Huskies into committing nine turnovers in the first half, allowing DePaul to capitalize and enter halftime trailing by just three points. Coach Dan Hurley acknowledged the difficulties his team faced, crediting DePaul’s coach Chris Holtmann for his effective game plan.
The Huskies’ defensive prowess, a key aspect of their success this season, shone through in the second half. UConn limited DePaul to just 31% shooting and forced a total of 13 turnovers. This performance showcases UConn’s current standing as fourth in the nation according to KenPom’s defensive efficiency metric, a significant improvement from previous seasons.
Key Performers and Noteworthy Moments
One standout player was Silas Demary Jr., who stepped up in the absence of Ball. Demary, on the verge of a second triple-double this season, finished with 13 points, seven rebounds, eight assists, and two blocks. His relentless pressure on the ball helped secure extra possessions for UConn, underscoring his value to the team.
Another critical contributor was Alex Karaban, who shone in the first half. While the rest of the team struggled with their shooting, Karaban was a perfect 4-for-4 from the field in the opening period. He ended the game with 21 points, matching his season-high, along with six rebounds and two assists. His performance was crucial in maintaining UConn’s momentum as they pulled away in the second half.
The absence of Solo Ball, who suffered an injury earlier in the week, posed a significant challenge for the Huskies. Ball, who had a streak of 47 consecutive starts, wore a protective brace on his hand for the game. Hurley noted that the team has had to adapt to injuries throughout the season, which has tested their depth and versatility.
Unexpected Challenges and Recovery
An unusual incident occurred during the game involving Demary, who was forced to leave the court unexpectedly. He experienced a moment of illness due to a mix of pickle juice and an electrolyte drink consumed at halftime. Coach Hurley later confirmed that Demary felt better after the game, emphasizing the importance of hydration strategies in sports.
Reflecting on the overall performance, Hurley expressed satisfaction with the victory but also noted areas for improvement, particularly in ball security. Despite the challenges, he acknowledged the growth his players have shown in adapting to new roles and responsibilities.
As UConn looks ahead, maintaining focus on their defensive strategy and improving offensive cohesion will be essential. With upcoming games on the horizon, the Huskies aim to continue their strong start to the season while navigating the complexities of injuries and player rotations. The resilience demonstrated against DePaul is a promising sign for the rest of the campaign.
