UConn Huskies Look Stronger for Upcoming Season Despite Potential NBA Loss

STORRS, Conn. — The UConn Huskies are focused on building a stronger roster for the 2025-26 season, despite the possibility of losing star player Liam McNeeley to the NBA. McNeeley, who had an impressive season averaging 14.5 points and six rebounds per game, is a potential first-round draft pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.

Head coach Dan Hurley has been proactive in the transfer portal, adding key players to enhance the team. College basketball analyst Jeff Cobb labeled the Huskies a ‘winner’ in the transfer scene for retaining talents like Alex Karaban and Solo Ball while securing skilled transfers like Silas Demary Jr. from Georgia and Malachi Smith from Dayton. ‘They will collectively upgrade UConn at the point of attack,’ Cobb noted.

Last season, UConn finished with a 24-11 record and fell short of completing a National Championship three-peat, struggling with their long-range shooting. Bringing in versatile players like Demary and Smith is expected to improve their shooting consistency and complete their roster.

Hurley described his new recruits in a recent interview. ‘Dwayne Koroma is a physical big who will allow us to be versatile. Jacob Ross is an exceptional athlete who fits our culture, and Alec Millender brings experience as a guard who can score and distribute,’ he said.

As the Huskies gear up for the new season, the competition in the Big East intensifies, especially with St. John’s emerging as a formidable rival under coach Rick Pitino. With upcoming challenges and strong new additions, UConn aims to reclaim its position as a national contender.

McNeeley’s potential departure creates uncertainty, but UConn fans are hopeful about the team’s preparation for the next chapter.