UConn men’s basketball coach Dan Hurley is urging his team to adopt a more physical style of play following their recent win over Seton Hall. The game, which took place on March 2, 2024, ended with a significant disparity in free throw attempts, as the Huskies enjoyed a 29-9 advantage in that category, including 21-2 in the second half. This led to discussions about the officiating and the need for UConn to enhance their defensive intensity.
Holloway Expresses Frustration Over Officiating
Seton Hall’s head coach, Shaheen Holloway, expressed his discontent with the officiating during the game, particularly regarding the free throw count. “I can’t believe that. That should never happen,” Holloway said, visibly frustrated. “Let’s just make sure we understand how crazy this is, to take 21 free throws and we took only 2.” Holloway, who coached through an illness, highlighted the Pirates’ known reputation for physical defense, suggesting that their aggressive style was not matched by UConn’s approach.
In response, Hurley defended his team’s performance and pointed out that they could have capitalized on more opportunities. “I watched the film of the game; we probably could’ve shot a bunch more free throws,” he noted. He emphasized that the conditions of conference play often lead to such disparities, but expressed a desire for his team to be more assertive defensively, particularly as they prepare for the NCAA Tournament.
Hurley Advocates for Greater Defensive Aggression
Hurley’s call for enhanced physicality comes as he seeks to prepare his team for the rigors of postseason play. He remarked, “We get mauled when we play. And I don’t think we foul enough on defense.” He criticized his players for not matching the intensity shown by their opponents, which often disrupts their offensive flow. “I’ve been all over my players for the last several games about being more physical,” he added. “If they’re going to let other people do this to us, then where’s our physicality?”
This season, UConn has struggled with consistency, particularly in their ability to secure the ball and limit turnovers. Hurley acknowledged that the team has turned the ball over at least ten times in 19 of their 30 games this season. He expressed frustration over careless mistakes that have cost them crucial opportunities. “It’s driving me crazy. A lot of the turnovers we’ve made were not forced by great defense,” he explained. “They’re aloofness, carelessness with the ball.”
Despite these challenges, UConn remains competitive, holding victories against two top-five teams this season. Hurley emphasized that if his team can improve their ball security and rebounding, they have the potential to succeed in the tournament. “If we rebound the ball and we don’t turn the ball over, we’ve got a chance to win a lot of games here,” he said.
Demary Excited for Postseason Opportunities
Freshman guard Silas Demary Jr. shared his enthusiasm for being part of a team poised to compete for the Big East title. “To be able to do it my first year being here is kind of a goal I have,” Demary said. With the Huskies needing just one more win to secure at least a share of the Big East regular season title, he highlighted the pressure that comes with high expectations. “The pressure to win, that’s the standard here,” he remarked.
As UConn approaches the final stretch of the season, Hurley’s focus on instilling a more aggressive defensive mindset could prove crucial. With the NCAA Tournament on the horizon, the Huskies are looking to harness their full potential and capitalize on their strengths in order to make a deep run.
