Texas Longhorns vs Uconn Huskies Picks and Predictions December 8th 2024

UConn: Building Momentum Amid Challenges

After a rocky 0-3 run in the Maui Invitational, the No. 25 UConn Huskies (6-3) have rebounded with two straight wins, including a significant 76-72 victory over No. 15 Baylor. Head coach Danny Hurley’s emphasis on positivity and patience seems to be paying off as the team continues to grow.

Key Players for UConn

• Alex Karaban: Averaging 15.9 points per game, Karaban is the team’s leading scorer and a stabilizing presence. After missing two games with a head injury, he is expected to return barring any setbacks.
• Liam McNeeley: The freshman stepped up in Karaban’s absence, scoring 17 points against Baylor and proving he can handle high-pressure situations.
• Cam Spencer: A key contributor in both scoring and facilitating, Spencer’s leadership will be vital against Texas’ strong defense.

“This is a team that’s going to be a work in progress,” Hurley said. “I have to coach this team with more grace and more building them up.”

UConn’s focus will be on maintaining defensive intensity and finding consistency as they aim to return to their winning ways from earlier in the season.

Texas: Eyeing Eight Straight Wins

The Texas Longhorns (7-1) enter Sunday’s matchup riding a seven-game winning streak. Their most recent victory, a 63-57 win over NC State, showcased the team’s ability to win close games, thanks to clutch performances from their standout players.

Key Players for Texas

• Tre Johnson: The freshman phenom leads Texas in scoring (20.8 ppg) and is shooting 44.6% from beyond the arc. His late-game heroics against NC State were crucial, including the game-winning 3-pointer.
• Arthur Kaluma: A dominant force on the boards, Kaluma is averaging 8.0 rebounds and 13.6 points per game, adding physicality to Texas’ frontcourt.
• Kadin Shedrick: Averaging 10.1 points and 2.1 blocks per game, Shedrick’s defensive presence will be key in limiting UConn’s offensive options.

“They’re really good, and they’re going to be hungry,” Shedrick said of UConn. “We’ve got to make sure we’re locked in and ready.”

Texas coach Rodney Terry praised his team’s growth, particularly their ability to persevere in tight games.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Alex Karaban vs. Arthur Kaluma: Karaban’s potential return brings a scoring threat that Kaluma will likely have to neutralize with his physical defense.
• Tre Johnson vs. UConn’s Perimeter Defense: Johnson’s sharpshooting could tilt the game in Texas’ favor if UConn doesn’t close out on the perimeter effectively.
• Liam McNeeley vs. Kadin Shedrick: McNeeley’s offensive versatility will be tested by Shedrick’s shot-blocking ability.

What’s at Stake?

• For UConn: A win would solidify their resurgence after the struggles in Maui and provide a marquee victory over a ranked opponent.
• For Texas: Beating UConn would extend their winning streak to eight games and further bolster their case as a top-tier team heading into tougher Big 12 competition.

Prediction

Both teams boast standout freshmen and strong frontcourt players, but the outcome could hinge on the availability of Alex Karaban and UConn’s ability to slow down Tre Johnson. If Karaban plays effectively, UConn has the edge in depth and experience, but Texas’ home-court advantage and late-game poise make this a toss-up.

Final Score Prediction: UConn 78, Texas 75