UConn improved to 4-0 on Monday night with an 86-84 win over No. 7 BYU, surviving its first major test of the season behind a breakout performance from junior guard Silas Demary Jr.
The Georgia transfer delivered throughout the second half, knocking down key shots and free throws before sealing the victory with a crucial steal in the final 30 seconds.
Demary finished with 21 points, seven assists, five rebounds and two steals, showcasing a complete game and proving he can thrive against elite competition. More importantly for the Huskies, he has quickly emerged as the type of disciplined, tough, hard-working player head coach Dan Hurley demands.
At 6-foot-4, Demary’s versatility has already reshaped the Huskies’ backcourt. His ability to create off the dribble, initiate offense and finish at the rim gives UConn a dimension it lacked last season. He leads the team with 25 assists through four games, a mark that ranks tied for 26th nationally.
Against BYU, he attacked the paint relentlessly, finishing 8 of 11 from the free-throw line and continuing a season trend of embracing contact. He is shooting 75% from the stripe on the year.
Defense may ultimately be what elevates both Demary and the Huskies to another Final Four run. He has recorded eight steals in four games, leading the team, and has shown the ability to guard both backcourt positions. His active hands, physical approach and refusal to take plays off have already made him a disruptive presence for opposing offenses.
Monday’s win was Demary’s first significant stage in a UConn uniform, and he showed no hesitation under pressure. The challenge only intensifies from here: the Huskies’ next six games include matchups with No. 4 Arizona, No. 8 Illinois, No. 24 Kansas and No. 10 Florida.
UConn will need toughness to navigate the stretch, and early signs suggest Demary may be the final piece capable of helping Hurley’s program chase a third national championship in four seasons.
More college basketball news:
- Duke Basketball one-and-done makes NBA history, earns Player of the Week honors
- Ex-college basketball player admits to point-shaving scheme
- Bruce Pearl becomes Auburn super fan during son's loss to No. 1 Houston
- No. 3 UConn holds off No. 7 BYU 86-84 in Boston