It’s quite rare for a player to represent his team at a conference media day three years in a row. But Alex Karaban is unique. As Shaka Smart, who’s seen a lot in his coaching career, puts it best, “Karaban’s a winner. I mean, he’s just the ultimate winner to me. He does whatever it takes to win.” Yet last year, Karaban failed to take UConn past the first round of the NCAA Tournament. But what went wrong?

UConn finished last season ranked 75th in the nation in defensive efficiency-the worst mark for a Dan Hurley–coached team since he took over the program in 2018–19. Notably, the Huskies were No. 7 during their 2022–23 national championship season and No. 4 in 2023–24. So, the defensive lapses were clear, and UConn’s captain is not shy to admit it.

Speaking to CBS Sports College B

See Full Page