The UConn Huskies proved why they're ranked third in the nation with a dominant 89-62 victory over Columbia on Monday night. Both teams entered the matchup undefeated, but UConn’s depth and defensive intensity quickly showed why national contender
UConn came into the game averaging 94.5 points through its first two contests, and the offense once again clicked on all cylinders. The Huskies shot 56.6% from the field (30-of-53) and 43.5% from three-point range. An improvement from their 39.1% performance from deep in the previous game. UConn also turned defense into offense, scoring ten points off turnovers and keeping Columbia off balance all night.
Columbia, led by guard Kenny Noland, struggled to find rhythm against UConn’s length and discipline on defense. Noland, who entered averaging 14 points and shooting 41.7%, was held to 8 points on 3-of-11 shooting. Bench contributor Miles Franklin provided a spark, going 5-for-8 from the field and finishing with 10 points and 3 rebounds. Columbia couldn’t overcome UConn’s defensive pressure, collecting only 18 defensive rebounds. Nearly half of what they grabbed in their previous outing, while giving up numerous turnovers that led to 17 points for the Huskies.
For UConn, the offensive balance was once again on display. Stephon Castle led the way with 23 points on 7-of-15 shooting, including 3-of-9 from beyond the arc. Alex Karaban added 20 points and 6 rebounds, while Tarris Reed Jr. Dominated inside with 19 points and 8 rebounds. The Huskies’ frontcourt controlled the glass, matching Columbia nearly rebound-for-rebound (33-32) but creating far more second-chance opportunities.
UConn (3-0) will face a tougher test next when they meet No. 7 BYU (2-0) on Saturday.
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