UConn Advances, Faces Florida in NCAA Round of 32

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — The UConn men’s basketball team escaped elimination by narrowly defeating Oklahoma in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on March 21, 2025. Alex Karaban’s decisive performance helped the Huskies secure a 76-68 victory, allowing them to advance to face Florida in the Round of 32.

With the game hanging in the balance and under four minutes to go, Karaban displayed assertiveness after previous hesitation. “I was willing to live and die with the consequences of the shots I take,” Karaban said. “I wasn’t going to make that same mistake again.”

In a critical moment, Karaban connected on a pivotal three-pointer that shifted the momentum back in UConn’s favor. He concluded the game with 13 points and seven rebounds, making key contributions when they were needed most.

UConn head coach Dan Hurley noted the significance of Karaban’s late-game execution and emphasized the need for more aggressive shooting from his players as they prepare for future matchups. “He probably should have taken 14 shots in this game. At this level, you can’t always wait for the perfect shot,” Hurley said.

This victory marked UConn’s 13th consecutive win in the NCAA Tournament, tying a record for the longest streak since seeding began in 1979. However, the battle against the eighth-seeded Oklahoma team was hard-fought, with the Sooners momentarily seizing the lead in the second half.

As the matchup with the top-seed Florida approaches, UConn (24-10) remains aware of the challenges ahead. Florida comes in with a robust 31-4 record and defeated UConn earlier in the season by 22 points.

“It’s a different team, different personnel-wise,” Karaban remarked, acknowledging that opponents are now more prepared for UConn’s strategies. He also highlighted the need for better execution against a formidable Florida team known for its defensive prowess.

UConn’s recent encounters with Florida have historically favored the Huskies, having won five of their last six games against the Gators, which included a victory that ended Florida’s 30-game winning streak. Nonetheless, as they gear up for the challenge, UConn players are focused on the opportunity to demonstrate their resilience and commitment to the program.

Later, Hurley addressed the honor of competing at such high levels in the tournament. “I think there’s honor in fighting and getting to the round of 32 and making somebody put you down in this tournament,” he said, stressing the pride associated with UConn’s legacy of excellence.

The contest against Florida is set for March 23, 2025, at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, with events kicking off at 12:10 p.m. The champions are not finished yet, and the stakes have never been higher.