- Alex Karaban scores 13 points with clutch late-game baskets
- Huskies hold Oklahoma to sub-33% field goal accuracy
- UConn joins Duke and Florida as back-to-back champions seeking third title
- Sooners manage only 1 field goal in final 6 minutes
In a tense March Madness showdown, defending champion UConn demonstrated championship poise with a 67-59 victory over Oklahoma. The Huskies' win extends their NCAA Tournament winning streak to 13 games, matching Duke's historic 1991-93 run. While shooting struggles plagued both teams, UConn's defensive intensity proved decisive in the closing minutes.
Freshman guard Solo Ball emerged as an unexpected hero with 14 points, while veteran forward Alex Karaban delivered two critical baskets in the final four minutes. His three-pointer from the right wing at 3:40 gave UConn breathing room, followed by a floating jumper at 2:18 that essentially sealed the victory.
Oklahoma's offensive woes proved insurmountable, converting just 17.6% from beyond the arc and 32.1% overall. The Sooners' 7-14 conference record entering the tournament raised questions about SEC team selection, with six conference squads earning bids despite losing records.
Three unique factors shaped this outcome:
- Defensive adjustments: UConn forced 14 contested mid-range attempts
- Bench production: Huskies reserves outscored Oklahoma's 21-7
- Tournament experience: UConn starters combined for 23 previous NCAA games vs. Oklahoma's 6
Regional analysis reveals the SEC's 14 tournament teams underperformed collectively, going 2-4 in first-round games. This contrasts sharply with Big East teams' 4-1 start, suggesting conference strength evaluations may need recalibration.
UConn now faces its toughest test against Florida, a team boasting the nation's third-ranked offense. Historical data shows only 3 of 15 defending champions have reached the Sweet 16 when seeded eighth or lower. Coach Dan Hurley emphasized postgame: 'Survive and advance - that's March basketball. Our guys know how to win when it matters.'
The Huskies' three-peat attempt continues Sunday, with tip-off scheduled for 2:20 PM ET. A victory would make UConn the first program since UCLA's 1967-73 dynasty to reach three consecutive Elite Eights while defending championships.