HARTFORD, CT — No. 5 UConn men’s basketball (10-1) capped its non-conference schedule with a hard-fought 71-63 victory over Texas (7-4) Friday night at a sold-out PeoplesBank Arena. The Huskies extended their win streak to six and finished a grueling slate with a 5-1 record against high-major opponents, sending a clear message as they head into BIG EAST play.

First-Half Firepower and Key Matchups

The opening minutes set the tone for a physical, high-level contest. Texas and UConn traded blows, with three lead changes before Braylon Mullins’ hustle sparked a 7-0 UConn run. Mullins, making his first career start, grabbed an offensive rebound and buried a three, then added another triple to force a Texas timeout. Tarris Reed Jr. and Alex Karaban formed a formidable frontcourt duo, combining for 30 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists. Karaban led all scorers with 18 points (8-14 FG, 2-4 3PT), surpassing 1,500 career points and moving into 21st on UConn’s all-time list.

Huskies News:

• MSG Classic: UConn Survives Florida in a Garden Showdown for the Ages
• UConn’s 23 Steals Lead Top-Ranked Huskies Past DePaul, 102-35
• Huskies-Terriers Thriller: UConn Women’s Hockey Battles to Draw, Then Wins in Boston

UConn’s depth and ball movement were on display early, as the Huskies assisted on 13 of 17 first-half field goals. Reed Jr. (12 pts, 6 reb, 4 blk, 5 ast) anchored the paint, while Malachi Smith came off the bench to dish out nine assists in just 22 minutes. The Huskies stretched their lead to double digits late in the first half, with Karaban’s buzzer-beating layup sending them to the locker room up 43-34 after shooting 68% from the field.

Defensive Intensity and Second-Half Adjustments

The pace slowed after halftime as both teams struggled to find an offensive rhythm. UConn’s defense, however, ratcheted up the pressure. The Huskies held Texas to just 30.4% shooting in the second half and forced several key turnovers. Jayden Ross’ steal and breakaway dunk gave UConn its largest lead at 57-45. When Texas clawed back within five, Solo Ball broke a four-minute scoring drought with a deep three as the shot clock expired, and Karaban followed with a transition triple to restore an 11-point cushion.

Texas was led by Tramon Mark and Jordan Pope, who each scored 15 points, but the Longhorns were held to just four threes and 37.7% shooting overall. UConn’s defense also limited Texas’ inside looks, outscoring the Longhorns 38-24 in the paint and blocking five shots. Despite committing 15 turnovers, the Huskies won the points-off-turnovers battle 16-12 and got 20 points from their bench.

Fuel Your Game Day Cravings with Doich Foods

Craving something sweet between periods? Between innings? Between quarters?

Doich Foods has you covered with edible cookie dough that’s ready to eat straight from the container—no baking, no waiting, just pure indulgence.

Whether you’re watching the game from the couch or celebrating a big win, Doich Foods delivers the ultimate treat for sports fans who refuse to compromise on flavor.

Why Doich Foods?

• Safe to eat raw – No eggs, no worries
• Game-ready – Grab a spoon and dig in
• Perfect for sharing (or not—we don’t judge)
• Multiple flavors to satisfy every craving

Exclusive Offer for Bad Dawg Sports Fans

👇 Get 20% off your order with our exclusive discount!

👉 BUY NOW

Don’t let halftime hunger slow you down. Stock up on Doich Foods edible cookie dough and keep your energy high throughout the game.

Doich Foods – Because champions deserve a sweet reward.

Keys to UConn’s Success

• Balanced Attack: Four Huskies scored in double figures, with Reed Jr., Karaban, Mullins (10 pts), and Jaylin Stewart (10 pts) all making big plays in critical moments.
• Elite Ball Movement: UConn tallied 23 assists on 29 field goals, marking their fourth 20+ assist game this season. Smith has 18 assists and just four turnovers over his last two games.
• Frontcourt Dominance: Reed Jr. and Karaban controlled the paint, combining for 12 defensive rebounds and nine assists.
• Defensive Execution: UConn has now held seven opponents under 40% shooting and five of their last six. The Huskies also blocked five Texas shots and forced 12 turnovers.
• Clutch Shooting: UConn hit 54.7% from the field and 6-16 from three, including several timely buckets to halt Texas rallies.

Notable Milestones and Benchmarks

• Karaban moved into a tie with Rip Hamilton for sixth in UConn history with 237 career threes, recently passing Ray Allen (233).
• Smith reached 508 career assists, one of only seven active Division I players with 500+.
• UConn improved to 9-3 all-time vs. Texas and has now won 22 straight games in Hartford.
• Coach Dan Hurley’s squad is 48-3 in home non-conference games and 80-18 overall in non-league play at UConn.

Looking Ahead

With non-conference play complete, UConn shifts its focus to the BIG EAST gauntlet, opening league action against Butler on Tuesday, Dec. 16, at PeoplesBank Arena. The Huskies’ blend of balanced scoring, elite defense, and veteran leadership has them primed for another deep run as conference play begins.

Final Stats:

• UConn: 54.7% FG (29-53), 37.5% 3PT (6-16), 23 assists, 38 paint points, 5 blocks
• Texas: 37.7% FG (20-53), 30.8% 3PT (4-13), 31 rebounds, 12 turnovers

Key Performers:

• Alex Karaban: 18 pts, 4 reb, 2 ast
• Tarris Reed Jr.: 12 pts, 6 reb, 4 blk, 5 ast
• Braylon Mullins: 10 pts, 4 reb
• Jaylin Stewart: 10 pts
• Malachi Smith: 4 pts, 9 ast, 4 reb

UConn’s ability to wear down opponents with depth, ball movement, and defense was on full display. With several players reaching career milestones and the team hitting its stride, the Huskies look ready to contend atop the BIG EAST once again.

For more NCAA basketball coverage and exclusive UConn insights, subscribe to the Bad Dawg Sports newsletter for just $24/year never miss a moment of the action.

Go Huskies! 🔵 🔴