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  • The Future of UConn Basketball and The Big East Conference

    Episode Description:

    In today’s episode, we dive into the potential future of UConn basketball and the Big East Conference amidst the ever-changing landscape of college sports. We also take a look at Tristen Newton’s journey from ECU to UConn legend, his NBA Draft Combine performance, and future prospects. Plus, we rank the top 5 guards in UConn history. Don’t miss out!

    Discussion on conference realignment.

    Big East’s stability and role of UConn.

    Threat of super conferences and football’s influence.

    UConn’s Future in the Big East

    Current and future prospects of the Big East.

    Potential improvements from DePaul and Georgetown.

    Impact on UConn and the conference.

    Tristen Newton’s Journey

    Tristen Newton’s path from ECU to UConn.

    NBA Draft Combine performance and agent’s advice.

    Future prospects and reflections.

    Top 5 Guards in UConn History

    Countdown and analysis of the top 5 guards.

    Spotlight on notable players and their achievements.

    #conferencerealignment #collegebasketball #collegefootball #uconn #tristen #newton #cam #spencer #donovanclingan #stephoncastle #nbadraft #nbadraftlottery #bigeasthoops #bigeast #dukebasketball #carolinabasketball #pittsburgh #syracuseorange

  • The ACC Is Drowning. Should the Big East Throw It a Lifevest?

    In today's episode of Locked On UCONN, we explore the current turmoil in the ACC and discuss whether the Big East should step in to provide a lifeline, potentially reshaping the landscape of college basketball. Host Mark Zanetto is joined by co-host Matt Edwards to dive deep into the potential opportunities and challenges of Big East expansion, particularly by targeting ACC schools as basketball-only members.

    ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips expresses optimism about the ACC's future despite significant challenges.

    Introduction of co-host Matt Edwards.

    Segment 2: Big East Expansion Discussion

    Should the Big East get creative and consider inviting ACC schools as basketball-only members?

    The importance of basketball identity vs. football revenue.

    Schools like Alabama and Tennessee will always be football-first despite basketball success.

    Segment 3: Impact of College Football Playoff Expansion

    Discussion on how the expansion affects UCONN and other basketball programs.

    FSU’s lawsuit revealing ESPN’s opt-out clause in the ACC’s TV rights deal by February 2025.

    The urgency for the Big East to create a basketball superpower.

    Segment 4: Potential ACC Schools for the Big East

    Which ACC schools would be ideal for the Big East expansion?

    Audience poll: Which ACC schools should be excluded?

    Ad Break: Gametime Overlay

    Personal experience with buying tickets through Gametime.

    Gametime app features and benefits.

    Promo code: LockedOnCollege for $20 off.

    Segment 5: UCONN’s Upcoming Season

    Discussion on UCONN's deep roster.

    Predictions for the starting five and key bench players.

    Ad Break: Locked On Sports Today

    Promotion of Locked On Sports Today, a 24/7 sports streaming channel on YouTube and Amazon Fire TV.

    Segment 6: Who Do You Want?

    Fun segment discussing ideal players/coaches for various scenarios.

    Road trip companions: Khalid El-Amin, Dan Cyrulik, Rashad Anderson, Caron Butler.

    Foxhole companion: Toraino Walker.

    College roommate: Donovan Clingan.

    Golf foursome: Jim Calhoun, Dan Hurley, Steve Pikel, Mark Zanetto.

    Tennis partner: Donovan Clingan.

    Pickleball partner: Cam Spencer.

    Ad Break: FanDuel Overlay

    Promotion of FanDuel’s current offer for new customers.

    Conclusion:

    Reminder to check out Locked On Sports Today on YouTube and Amazon Fire TV.

    Thanking listeners for their support.

    Sign-off by Mark Zanetto and Matt Edwards.

    Encouragement to stay connected and always support the Huskies.

    #uconnbasketball #conferencerealignment #accbasketball #bigeast #bigeasthoops #transferportal #connecticut #dukebasketball #carolinabasketball #gonzagabasketball

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  • In this episode of Locked On UConn, host Mark Zanetto, along with co-host Matt Edwards from The Dream Season Podcast, delves into the latest updates and discussions around UConn basketball. The focus is on the Transfer Portal, with speculations about Alex Karaban's future and whether UConn has adequately leveraged the portal to maintain their competitive edge. The episode also touches on nostalgic reflections of the season, including UConn's historic achievements, and includes a segment sponsored by FanDuel, encouraging listeners to capitalize on bonus bets.

    Transfer Portal Recap

    Nostalgic reflections on UConn basketball

    Intro

    Welcome message

    Reminder to subscribe to the channel

    Appreciation for the audience's support

    Sponsorship Message

    FanDuel promotion: New customers get $150 in bonus bets with any winning $5 bet

    Main Segment: Transfer Portal Discussion

    Co-host Matt Edwards joins the discussion

    Analysis of Alex Karaban’s uncertain future with UConn

    General thoughts on the Transfer Portal’s impact

    Hypothetical scenario: How would Jim Calhoun handle the Transfer Portal?

    Transfer Portal Analysis

    Status update: Portal is nearly closed

    Predictions about Alex Karaban’s decision

    Limited remaining options in the portal

    Sponsorship Overlay

    Additional FanDuel promotion details

    Nostalgic Reflection: Historic Season

    UConn’s accomplishments:

    First all-time in regular season wins

    Big East regular season and tournament titles

    Second straight national title

    Year in Review: Best moments of the year

    Promotional Segment

    Introduction to Locked On Sports Today, a new 24/7 sports streaming channel on YouTube and Amazon Fire TV

    Conclusion

    Final remarks from host Mark Zanetto

    Encouragement to stay connected and stay tuned for more updates

    Signature sign-off: "Stay locked in, stay connected, make sure your toughness meter is always rising, and as always Go Huskies!"

    This episode offers a comprehensive look at UConn's current and past achievements while providing insights into the Transfer Portal's influence on college basketball dynamics.

  • On this episode of Locked On UConn, host Mark Zanetto discusses the potential impact of portal season and the need for contingencies if players like Alex Karaban decide to leave. Zanetto introduces 3 international players who could serve as replacements, highlighting their profiles and fit with UConn's style of play. Additionally, he touches on the importance of staying adaptable in the face of roster changes.

    Zanetto also features prospects such as Samodurov, Prey, and Ajinca, analyzing their potential contributions to UConn's team dynamics. Each player's skill set and physical attributes are examined in detail, outlining how they align with UConn's basketball strategy.

    The episode concludes with a look at the evolving landscape of college basketball, envisioning the Big East as a powerhouse conference by 2028, with potential additions that could elevate the league's status.

    Host: Mark Zanetto

    Topic: Contingency plans for Portal Season and international player profiles

    Featured players:

    Samodurov: Versatile big man with offensive potential and defensive versatility

    Prey: Traditional big man with emerging offensive skills and strong defensive capabilities

    Ajinca: Energetic wing player with shooting prowess and defensive versatility

    Discussion on the future of the Big East conference and expansion plans to become a basketball super conference by 2028, including potential new member schools.

    #transferportal #international #uconnbasketball #connecticut #fiba #europaleague

  • On this episode of Locked on Uconn, Mark Zanetto explores if Dan Hurley, the UConn head coach, might need to explore the transfer portal again, especially if Alex Karaban continues to impress at the NBA Combine and gets picked in the first round. Potential replacements like Jaylin Stewart and Liam McNeeley are already on campus. The discussion covers various prospects and their potential impact on the team, including Coleman Hawkins, Dillon Mitchell, Achor Achor, Supreme Cook, Lance Ware, and Liam McChesney.

    Dan Hurley might need to dive into the transfer portal again.

    Thanks to listeners for making Locked On UConn their first listen every day.

    The podcast is free and available on various platforms.

    Encouragement to subscribe to help the channel grow.

    Alex Karaban's NBA Combine Performance

    Karaban excelled at the combine, going white-hot from 3-point range.

    Potential late first-round pick.

    Dallas Mavericks could have used his shooting.

    Discussion on Transfer Portal Prospects

    Coleman Hawkins

    High energy, all-around skill set, versatile defender.

    Can guard in space, switch onto guards, and compete in the paint.

    Strong ball-handling and passing for a big forward.

    Decent outside shot with potential to improve.

    Interest from UNC, K-State, Arkansas, Louisville, and potentially UConn.

    Dillon Mitchell

    Former 5-star recruit, explosive athlete with great length.

    High-level defensive instincts, good in transition, efficient on offense.

    Needs improvement in shooting.

    Interest from Miami.

    Achor Achor

    Project player, 6'10", strong rebounder, and shot-blocker.

    Intriguing potential, interest from Auburn.

    Supreme Cook

    Former Georgetown player, strong rebounder.

    Physical presence, could fit into UConn's system.

    Lance Ware

    Former Villanova player, experienced, and could toughen up young players.

    From Camden, NJ, and a former 4-star recruit.

    Liam McChesney

    International player, project type, could be the 11th man on the team.

    Played at Utah State, Illinois State, and High Point University.

    LinkedIn Jobs Promotion

    Emphasis on finding quality professionals for small businesses.

    LinkedIn Jobs helps find the right professionals quickly and for free.

    Personal anecdote about successful hiring through LinkedIn Jobs.

    Combine Performance Highlights

    Mention of measurement mix-up between Stephon Castle and Devin Carter.

    Impressive shooting stats for UConn players at the combine.

    Donovan Clingan's standout performance and measurements.

    Tristen Newton's decision not to play in 5x5 scrimmages.

    #transferportal #collegebasketball #uconn #uconnbasketball #huskies

  • On this episode, host Mark Zanetto delves into the NBA draft landscape through the lens of UCONN basketball. Discover which NBA team UCONN fans hope to avoid when it comes to drafting their players, where top prospects are likely headed in the draft, and a breakdown of UCONN's all-time teams across multiple tiers.

    Show Notes:

    The Unwanted Team:

    Identify the NBA team that UCONN fans prefer not to draft their players due to past experiences and organizational challenges.

    Draft Predictions:

    Speculate on the draft destinations of prominent UCONN prospects such as Steph Castle and Donovan Clingan based on their skill sets and team needs.

    All-Time UCONN Teams:

    Highlight and discuss UCONN's all-time basketball teams, featuring selections for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd teams based on players' contributions and impact during their college careers.

  • On today's episode of Locked On UCONN, we delve into Alex Karaban's decision and its potential impact on the team's championship aspirations. Host Mark Zanetto is joined by The Athletic's Tobias Bass to discuss how Karaban's return could transform UConn into a serious contender or leave them as pretenders in the college basketball landscape.

    Alex Karaban's Return: Exploring how Alex Karaban's decision to stay at UConn would bolster an already talented squad.

    Starting Lineup Projection: Tobias analyzes the potential starting lineup with Karaban back on the team.

    Fan Base Perspectives: Tobias explains why some fans are more sold on Jaylin Stewart's NBA potential than on Solo Ball.

    College Realignment Discussion: Insights into the future of basketball-first conferences like the Big East amid broader college sports realignment.

    Impact of Realignment on Basketball Schools: Tobias weighs in on whether schools with both football and basketball programs might consider joining basketball-focused conferences like the Big East.

  • UConn's Two Rising Stars: Solo Ball and Jaylin Stewart

    in This episode of Locked On UConn, host Mark Zanetto, focuses on two rising stars who are the key players in keeping UConn on top: Solo Ball and Jaylin Stewart.

    * Solo Ball: A crafty lefty guard with exceptional ball-handling and finishing skills, explosive athleticism, and a competitive spirit. Coach Hurley expects him to make a significant jump in his sophomore season.

    * Jaylin Stewart: A versatile scorer with a smooth jump shot, athleticism, and positional versatility. His ability to create his own shot and contribute in multiple ways will be crucial next season.

    The episode also discusses the potential impact of Alex Karaban's decision on the team and explores three potential additions to the Big East conference: Duke, North Carolina, and NC State.

    Show Notes:

    * Solo Ball:

    *

    * Ranked 44th nationally and 4th at his position in the 2023 class.

    * Vertical jump of 45 inches.

    * 6'10" wingspan.

    * Crafty lefty with a diverse finishing package.

    * Confident scorer with potential to develop his shooting.

    * Competitive spirit evident in every aspect of his game.

    * Expected to become a double-digit scorer in the upcoming season.

    * Jaylin Stewart:

    *

    * Ranked 60th nationally and 12th at his position.

    * 3-tier scorer with ball-handling ability and a precise passing game.

    * Athletic and long.

    * Silky smooth jump shot.

    * Can get his own shot when plays break down.

    * Positional versatility allows him to play multiple positions.

    * Could be a key player if Alex Karaban doesn't return.

    * Potential Big East additions:

    *

    * Duke: A traditional ACC powerhouse with a passionate fanbase and a history of success.

    * North Carolina: Another ACC powerhouse with a strong basketball tradition.

    * NC State: A multi-time national champion with a young, passionate coach.

    * Top 10 Role Players in UConn History:

  • n this podcast episode of Locked On UCONN, host Mark Zanetto discusses impactful player additions to the UConn football team through the transfer portal. He highlights key players who are expected to make significant contributions to the team's performance in the upcoming season. The episode delves into the backgrounds, strengths, and potential roles of these players, including quarterback Nick Evers, running backs Cam Edwards and Victor Rosa, wide receivers Ezeriah Anderson and TJ Sheffield, offensive lineman Ja'khi "Tank" Green, and linebacker Jayden McDonald.

    Show Notes:

    Nick Evers (QB):

    Former Oklahoma recruit and 4-star QB known for arm strength and mobility.

    Evers brings a dynamic threat and outstanding intangibles to UConn.

    Expected to excel in prolonging plays and creating opportunities.

    Cam Edwards & Victor Rosa (RBs):

    Edwards emerged with standout performances against Duke, USF, and UMass.

    Rosa showed promise with a 71-yard TD run and aims for a healthier season.

    Jayden “Mel” Brown (Portal transfer) adds exceptional speed and agility.

    Ezeriah Anderson & TJ Sheffield (WRs):

    Anderson, from Campbell and Iowa State, fills a significant role with his size and past performance.

    Sheffield, a Purdue transfer, brings speed and versatility to the receiving corps.

    Ja'khi “Tank” Green (OL):

    Transferred from Charlotte, Green adds depth and experience to the offensive line.

    Jayden McDonald (LB):

    Graduate transfer from Indiana with a history of impactful seasons despite injuries.

    Expected to anchor the UConn defense with experience and leadership.

  • In this episode of Locked On UConn, host Mark Zanetto explores the potential NBA draft prospects from UConn and the likelihood of them landing with the San Antonio Spurs. Mark discusses how the Spurs, under the leadership of Gregg Popovich, are known for their success and commitment to fundamental basketball. He analyzes the potential draft picks from UConn, including Donovan Clingan, McDonalds All-American Steph Castle, and Alex Karaban, and how they could fit into the Spurs' system.

    Mark highlights the Spurs' draft position and speculates on potential draft scenarios based on the upcoming lottery results. He discusses the potential pairing of Clingan and Victor Wembayama in the Spurs' frontcourt, emphasizing their defensive prowess. Additionally, Mark considers how Castle and Karaban could bolster the Spurs' guard rotation and overall team depth.

    Plus the Top 5 Huskies of All Time: Mark briefly highlights notable UConn basketball player

  • UConn's basketball program is making subtle but strategic moves that could pave the way for a historic third consecutive national title. The team's coaching staff, led by Dan Hurley, has been instrumental in retaining talent and adapting to new challenges. Despite losing key players, UConn is focused on reevaluating and strengthening its roster through careful recruitment and a sophisticated offensive system. The coaching staff's ability to develop players and maintain a winning formula sets UConn apart from other programs facing significant roster turnover and coaching changes due to the transfer portal.

    Player Analysis: Detailed breakdown of UConn's potential lineup and the strengths of key players like Tarris Reed Jr., Samson Johnson, and Youssef Singare

    Coaching Advantage: Emphasis on Dan Hurley's coaching philosophy and its impact on UConn's sustained success.

    Recap of Top 5 UConn Players: A nostalgic segment discussing notable former UConn players like Khalid El Amin and Richard Hamilton.

  • On today's show, we dive into UConn's strategic approach to the transfer portal season, exploring how they prioritize team cohesion and player development over chasing top recruits. We also examine UConn's strong team culture and discuss the exciting prospects for the program's future. Stay tuned for all things Huskies on Locked On UCONN!

    Segment 1: UConn Won Portal Season

    UConn prioritized retaining their young talent over chasing top transfer portal recruits.Key players like Solo, Jayden, Jaylin, and Youssef were crucial to the team's championship potential.Coach Dan Hurley emphasized the importance of continuity and development within the program.The coaching staff's strategic approach to the transfer portal demonstrated a commitment to team cohesion and long-term success.

    Segment 2: UConn Culture and What's Next

    UConn's culture emphasizes replicating successful scripts and maintaining consistency.The coaching staff values players like Aidan Mahaney for their winning mentality and versatility.Focus on recruiting players who embody team values and contribute to championship aspirations.The program's culture is highlighted through the dedication of players and staff.

    Segment 3: Monitoring Alex's Status and Future Prospects

    Discussion on UConn alumni and potential future appearances, including notable names like Boatright, Cole, and Bouknight.Excitement around the "Stars of Storrs" and potential summer appearances from former Huskies.Speculation on recruiting former players like Shabazz Napier and Alex Oriakhi for future engagements.
  • Welcome back to Locked On UCONN! Today, host Mark Zanetto joined by nationally syndicated radio host, Aaron Torres, They dive into the pressing factors affecting UConn's pursuit of a third consecutive championship. Together, they explored the team's roster adjustments due to player departures and new transfers, analyzing UConn's potential to remain a dominant force in college basketball.

    Aaron Torres shared his early top 25 rankings, sparking a lively discussion about the rankings of powerhouse teams like Gonzaga and Kentucky compared to UConn and other contenders.

    The last segment of the show centered around Alex Karaban's pivotal decision about his future. Aaron provided valuable insights into Karaban's potential to turn pro or stay with UConn, while considering alternative options for the team's lineup should Karaban choose to depart.

  • In this episode of Locked On UConn, Mark Zanetto and co-host Joe Arruda of the Hartford Courant, focus on Aidan Mahaney's commitment to UConn's men's basketball team and its implications for the upcoming season. Mahaney, a transfer from Saint Mary's, was impressed by UConn's coaching staff during his visit to Storrs. The staff's attention to detail and strategic approach resonated with Mahaney and his family, ultimately influencing his decision to join the team. The episode also touches on projections for UConn's starting lineup and rotation for the upcoming season.

    Aidan Mahaney's commitment to UConn is significant, especially given the team's recent successes and the coaching staff's strong reputation for developing players.

    Mahaney was won over by UConn's coaching staff during his visit, where they showcased their intensive and intellectual approach to basketball strategy.

    The episode features discussions with UConn beat reporter Joe Arruda about Mahaney's fit with the team and potential lineup scenarios.

    The team's depth and rotation strategy for the upcoming season are also considered, with comparisons to previous championship-winning teams.

  • Tobias Bass Joins:

    On today's episode of Locked On UCONN, we delve into whether the addition of Aidan Mahaney is the final piece needed for UCONN's run at a historic 3-peat in college basketball. We discuss the latest odds from FanDuel for the National Title and analyze UCONN's preseason ranking prospects.

    Is UCONN positioned as the No.1 team in the preseason rankings? We rank the top teams and assess UCONN's prospects for the upcoming season.

    - Portal News & Team Analysis: We dive into the latest news from the transfer portal, including notable moves to Kentucky, Arkansas, UNC, and Providence. We analyze which teams have won big in the portal and discuss fan reactions.

  • this episode of Locked On UConn, host Mark Zanetto dives into the latest transfer news and NCAA legislation impacting college basketball. The show opens with an update on Koby Brea's recruitment process, analyzing his visit to Kentucky and the potential fit at UConn. The discussion continues with an overview of new NCAA transfer rules, focusing on graduate transfers' entry requirements into the transfer portal before final transfer windows.

    Mark explores the implications of these changes for student-athletes and program flexibility. Mark then delves into potential transfer targets for UConn, evaluating players like Aidan Mahaney, Max Shulga, and Jaxson Robinson in relation to Dan Hurley's coaching style and team needs. The episode concludes with a roundup of recent entries into the transfer portal and standout players available for recruitment. Throughout the show, Mark engages listeners with sponsor promotions and encourages audience participation. Locked On UConn delivers insightful analysis and updates on UConn athletics, ensuring fans stay informed and connected with the latest developments in college basketball. Tune in to Locked On UConn for comprehensive coverage of Huskies basketball and stay locked in with Mark Zanetto for all things UConn sports

  • Liam McNeeley's arrival signifies a transformative moment for UConn, setting the stage for greatness in college basketball. Additionally, notable insights into Koby Brea's standout statistics and transfer considerations further enrich the landscape of collegiate hoops.

    Background and Family Ties:

    A product of Richardson, Texas, with basketball running deep in his family.

    Honors his basketball lineage by donning the same jersey number (30) as his mother and uncle, former college basketball players.

    High School Career and Influences:

    Transitioned from J.J. Pearce High to John Paul II, influenced by Dallas Mavericks icons Luka Doncic and Dirk Nowitzki.

    Shares a potential bond with Coach Dan Hurley over their shared love for Star Wars and history.

    Choosing Top Competition:

    Garnered national recognition post-John Paul II, winning gold with Team USA at the FIBA Americas U16 Championship.

    Opted for Montverde Academy over elite programs like Duke and Texas Tech, underscoring his commitment to excellence.

    Big-Game Performer:

    Thrives under pressure, earning MVP honors at the Jordan Brand Classic and consistently excelling against top-tier competition.

    Scouting Report and Potential:

    Identified as a potential NBA lottery pick by ESPN, showcasing remarkable shooting prowess (45% from beyond the arc) and versatile playmaking abilities.

    Known for high basketball IQ and defensive skills, adding depth to his impressive offensive arsenal.

    Liam McNeeley's arrival signifies a transformative moment for UConn, setting the stage for greatness in college basketball. Additionally, notable insights into Koby Brea's standout statistics and transfer considerations further enrich the landscape of collegiate hoops.

  • In this episode of Locked On UCONN, the focus is on Aidan Mahaney, a visiting recruit alongside Koby Brea. Mahaney, a scrappier player from California, is seen as a better fit due to his coachability and room for improvement. The host discusses Mahaney's playing style, strengths, and areas needing development, contrasting him with the flashier Brea from Dayton. Mahaney's potential to grow under Coach Dan Hurley is highlighted, suggesting he could be a longer-term asset for the team.

    Recruitment Analysis: The episode focuses on Aidan Mahaney and Koby Brea, potential recruits for the UCONN team, evaluating their playing styles and fit within the team's dynamics.

    Player Comparison: Mahaney is likened to Cam Spencer, emphasizing his scrappy, underdog qualities compared to the flashier profile of Brea.

    Coaching Potential: Mahaney's coachability and potential for improvement under Dan Hurley's system are emphasized, suggesting a longer-term investment for the team.

    Performance Review: Mahaney's statistics and game performances are discussed, highlighting both his strengths and areas needing improvement.

  • Welcome to Locked On UCONN! Sponsored by FanDuel, we dive into the transfer portal chaos, player exploration in NIL deals, and more. Beat writer Joe Arruda joins to discuss commitments, portal entries, and Coach Hurley's influence. Stay tuned for recruit updates and Portal Kombat! #UConnHoops

    Exploration of Player Commitments: Advocating for patience in player decisions and understanding the allure of taking all available visits.

    Speculation on UConn's Offer: Consideration of UConn's potential offer to McNeeley, balancing financial aspects with personal fulfillment.

    Joe Arruda's Input: Joe's insights on player commitments, potential sophomore portal entries, and the impact of Coach Hurley's superstitions.

    Recruit Visits: Brief discussion on the upcoming visits of Koby Brea and Aidan Mahaney.