STORRS, Conn. — The recent basketball game was marked by two significant milestones: Dan Hurley celebrated his 300th career victory as a college head coach, while Alex Karaban crossed the mark of 1,000 career points. After capturing photos to commemorate these achievements, the duo stepped off the court, heading in opposite directions without uttering a word. This moment was indicative of their unique dynamic; for the first time in three years, Hurley seemed ready to create some space from his star player.
With ongoing aspirations to secure a third consecutive national championship, neither Hurley nor Karaban lingered on their personal achievements. Their relationship thrives on a mutual focus towards the future. In a time when standout athletes often transfer to other programs or leave for the NBA after just a season, both Hurley and Karaban made the decision to remain together, forming an integral part of a UConn team that has risen dramatically from its previous struggles to reclaim its status as a dominant force in college basketball.
Karaban, now in his third season as a starting forward, has become vital for the program. During Hurley’s first four seasons without Karaban, the Huskies had a record of 73-32 with no NCAA Tournament victories. However, the last three seasons have seen the team achieve an impressive 77-14 record, which includes two national championships. The next challenge for the 11th-ranked Huskies will take place against DePaul on January 1, as they continue their lead in the Big East Conference.
UConn aspires to join the prestigious ranks of the UCLA teams coached by John Wooden, which are the only programs to have achieved three straight NCAA Division I national titles. This success, largely credited to the robust partnership between Hurley and Karaban, has been monumental.
“It is special,” Karaban stated, leading UConn with an average of 16.5 points per game. “The comfort level between us has grown, and he understands me deeply. He’s seen me through both my highs and lows, supporting me every step of the way, observing my growth both as a player and a person.”
Karaban acknowledges the important role Hurley has played in shaping his life, both on and off the basketball court. “He’s challenged me to improve, establishing positive habits like reading and meditation. Our shared passion for basketball laid the foundation of our relationship, and I find it exhilarating to turn to him whenever I need guidance.”
Not every player can thrive under a coach as demanding as Hurley, but Karaban has learned to convey the coach’s messages effectively, aligning teammates and staff towards common goals. “We certainly faced challenges,” Karaban remarked. “After tough games, he would push me hard. Every strong relationship encounters struggles alongside good moments.”
Despite differences in their emotional approaches, Hurley and Karaban often find common ground. “We are fundamentally uncomplicated individuals,” Hurley explained. “Our shared love for basketball and family is paramount, and we see things quite similarly.”
Together, they have steered the Huskies through a difficult three-game losing streak earlier in the season and have rebounded impressively with a seven-game winning streak that includes victories against schools such as Baylor, Texas, Gonzaga, and Xavier.
Both chose to remain with UConn after last spring’s back-to-back national championship win. The Los Angeles Lakers showed interest in Hurley, while Karaban also explored opportunities but ultimately returned to UConn, motivated by the chance to etch their names in history.
“The main reason I returned was the opportunity to become the winningest player in college basketball history,” Karaban revealed. “I want to help the newcomers appreciate what it means to win and to contribute to the legacy of this program, a feat not accomplished since the days of UCLA.”
Karaban has earned respect across the Big East for his impressive performances and winning attributes. “Alex’s impact on the lives of so many players is undeniable,” Hurley asserted. “He elevates everyone around him. His skills as a player, passer, defender, and communicator are exceptional. He is a warrior, and he has indeed made us all champions.”
After an overtime defeat against UConn, Xavier’s coach Sean Miller concluded his press conference with an homage to Karaban. “In comparison to the greats like Christian Laettner and others from Duke during their prime, UConn is now in the same league,” Miller noted. “Karaban is one of the best winners in college basketball, with an influence on his program seen since freshman year.”
With many games yet to be played, Miller emphasized Karaban’s many contributions, saying, “There are few players in this league who leave as lasting an impression as he does.” The numerous qualities he brings to the court are reminders of his significant impact every time UConn takes the floor.
