UConn wins Big East Opener in Overtime, 94-89 over Xavier

In today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we break down a heart-pounding overtime win for the Huskies over the Xavier Musketeers. It wasn’t perfect—defensive lapses and slow starts nearly cost UConn—but when it mattered most, they found a way to grind out a 94-89 victory in extra time.We’ll take a close look at the key plays, standout performances, and critical moments that swung the game in UConn’s favor. Plus, we’ll recap individual stats and share why this win is a big confidence boost as the Huskies dive deeper into conference play.

 

Show Notes: Key Topics Covered

 

1. Game Recap: UConn 94, Xavier 89 (OT)

• UConn’s resilience: The Huskies weathered Xavier’s hot shooting and clawed their way back with clutch plays down the stretch to force overtime.

• Momentum shifts: After a 6-0 Xavier run in regulation, UConn responded with defensive stops and key free throws to stay alive.

• Overtime dominance: UConn leaned on Solo Ball and Tarris Reed Jr. in the extra period to seal the win.

• Three-point struggles: Xavier’s perimeter shooting (54.2% from deep) kept UConn on its heels, but the Huskies’ inside game and rebounding edge proved decisive.

 

2. Player-by-Player Breakdown

 

UConn Huskies:

• Liam McNeeley (#30): Steady with 14 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists, shooting 5-5 from the free-throw line.

• Alex Karaban (#11): Lit it up for 20 points, adding 5 rebounds and hitting 3 triples.

• Tarris Reed Jr. (#5): A force inside with 20 points and 13 rebounds, dominating the paint in crunch time.

• Solo Ball (#1): Explosive with 22 points and 4 steals, stepping up in overtime despite inefficient shooting (6-17 FG).

• Hassan Diarra (#10): The playmaker with 12 points, a game-high 11 assists, and clutch moments on both ends of the floor.

 

Bench Contributions:

• Jayden Ross (#23): Limited impact but grabbed 2 rebounds.

• Jaylin Stewart (#3): Chipped in 2 points and 2 assists.

• Youssouf Singare (#24): Efficient 2-2 shooting for 4 points and added 2 rebounds.

 

Xavier Musketeers:

• Jerome Hunter (#2): Contributed 7 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists in a solid effort.

• Ryan Conwell (#7): Led the team with 23 points on 9-13 shooting, including 3-5 from three.

• Dayvion McKnight (#20): Scored 18 points and added 4 rebounds and 3 assists, a steady two-way presence.

• Marcus Foster (#1): Added 15 points with 3 triples, keeping Xavier in the game late.

• Dailyn Swain (#3): Quiet game with just 2 points and 3 rebounds.

 

Bench Contributions:

• John Hugley IV (#4): Scored 2 points with 2 rebounds.

• Cam Fletcher (#11): No points but contributed a rebound and an assist.

• Dante Maddox Jr. (#21): Exploded off the bench for 22 points, hitting 5-9 from three-point range.

 

3. Key Team Stats

• UConn: 47.8% FG, 33.3% 3PT, 95.2% FT.

• Xavier: 50% FG, 54.2% 3PT, 85.7% FT.

• Rebounds: UConn 35, Xavier 27.

 

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Catch the full episode on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube, and thanks for making Locked On UConn your first listen every day!

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