In a week that saw many teams panicking, UConn's men's basketball team has shown remarkable growth. With national championship coaches at the helm, this team is on a path to reaching its preseason potential. The No. 25 UConn team has taken significant steps forward in just the last eight days, as evidenced by their recent victories.

Defense: The Key to Success

The biggest change between the current UConn team and the one that lost three straight in Maui is their defense. Against Texas, the Huskies' guards, Hassan Diarra and Solo Ball, stepped up, effectively stopping Texas' one-on-one attacks. Liam McNeeley also did his part when needed. In contrast to their struggles against Baylor, where they gave up offensive rebounds, UConn was much better against Texas, allowing only seven offensive rebounds compared to 13 on Wednesday. This improved defense has been a crucial factor in their recent wins.When it comes to defending against opponents' attacks, UConn has shown a newfound resilience. Their ability to stay focused and prevent opponents from getting easy scoring opportunities has been a game-changer. The Huskies' defense is not just about individual efforts but also about teamwork and communication on the court.

Learning to Live with Flaws

Samson Johnson and Tarris Reed Jr. have been prone to fouls all year, and while this is an issue that may not be completely resolved, UConn has found ways to manage it. In a game against Texas, when both players picked up two fouls in the first half, Youssouf Singare stepped in and held his own for eight minutes, despite picking up four fouls himself. This shows the team's ability to adapt and make adjustments when faced with challenges.During the second half, both Johnson and Reed were instrumental in helping UConn hold off Texas. Johnson's scoring and Reed's post moves and instincts were crucial in maintaining the Huskies' lead. While this combination may not be the same as the well-balanced bigs fans are used to seeing, it has proven to be effective in different situations.

The Role of Veterans

Alex Karaban's return after missing two games with a concussion was a significant boost for the team. In the first half alone, he scored 14 points and finished with 21 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 blocks, and 2 steals in 39 minutes. Karaban and Hassan Diarra, as the veterans on the team, provided stability and leadership when the team needed it most.When Tre Johnson was making shots with a hand in his face or when the UConn lead dipped briefly in the final minutes, Karaban and Diarra stepped up to steady their teammates. Their experience and composure on the court have been invaluable to the team's success.

Building Momentum

Longhorn freshman Tre Johnson played exceptionally well in the second half, scoring 18 points on 6-9 shooting. However, UConn's defense held its own, and the team was able to answer Texas' scoring runs. Reed also had a strong performance, scoring 12 points and grabbing five rebounds. His post moves and instincts were on full display, and he showed why he is an important part of the team.The chemistry between Johnson and Diarra has been a key factor in UConn's success. Their ability to work together and support each other on the court has created a winning atmosphere. As the season progresses, this chemistry will only continue to grow stronger.The result of these efforts is UConn's second win over a power conference opponent in as many games. The Longhorns may not have been ranked, but they were a formidable opponent, and UConn's ability to defeat them is a testament to their growth and improvement. There is still a long way to go, but the Huskies are clearly on the right track.