Episodes

  • UConn’s Close Calls, Big East Outlook, and March Madness Sleepers

    UConn’s Close Calls, Big East Outlook, and March Madness Sleepers
    Jan 10 2025

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    On today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we dive into UConn’s close loss to Villanova, the current Big East outlook, and how the Huskies can rebound moving forward. College basketball analyst Ryan Hammer joins us to discuss Duke and the ACC’s struggles this season, as well as his unique “Trapezoid of Excellence” and how it’s shaping his view of March Madness contenders. Finally, we preview UConn’s upcoming game against Georgetown and discuss teams poised to make a splash in the NCAA Tournament.

    Segment 1: UConn, Villanova, and Big East Outlook

    We start by recapping UConn’s nail-biting loss to Villanova, their third loss by a combined total of five points this season. There’s an ongoing narrative that Dan Hurley’s teams struggle in close games, but could these losses actually help the Huskies in the long run? Key moments from the game included Villanova’s execution down the stretch and UConn’s struggles in critical moments, despite standout performances from players like Alex Karaban and Jaylin Stewart.

    We then take a step back to evaluate the Big East. Marquette, UConn, and St. John’s seem like tournament locks, but Villanova and Georgetown are squarely on the bubble. How many Big East teams will ultimately make the NCAA Tournament, and what do their résumés look like so far?

    Segment 2: Duke, ACC Struggles, and Ryan’s Trapezoid of Excellence

    Ryan Hammer joins the show to break down why the ACC is having a down year. Duke’s metrics continue to be skewed by weaker competition within the conference, and the broader implications of the ACC’s struggles could make March Madness more challenging for its teams. We explore how this impacts Duke specifically and how their performance compares to other powerhouses nationally.

    Ryan then shares his concept, the “Trapezoid of Excellence,” a unique way of evaluating teams heading into March Madness. He explains how he developed this framework and how it helps him analyze teams’ strengths and weaknesses. We also dive into Ryan’s journey as a basketball analyst and how he got his start in the media landscape.

    Segment 3: Georgetown Preview and March Madness Contenders

    We preview UConn’s upcoming game against Georgetown. Key matchups include Ariel Jenkins, who’s been dominant on the boards, and Kelsey Ransom, Georgetown’s dynamic guard. Can the Hoyas make this a competitive game, or will UConn assert their dominance once again?

    We then pivot to March Madness contenders. Ryan revisits his top three teams—Auburn, Iowa State, and Duke—and highlights sleeper teams to watch, including potential Cinderellas. What makes a team dangerous in March? We explore the critical factors that separate contenders from pretenders.

    Wrap-Up and Outro

    Recap Major Points:

    • UConn’s close loss to Villanova and its impact on their season.

    • Big East outlook and the potential number of NCAA Tournament teams.

    • ACC struggles and Duke’s metrics.

    • March Madness sleepers and contenders.

    Follow Ryan Hammer:

    • Social media: @RyanHammer09 on X. And @Ryanhammer on Instagram.

    • Stay tuned for his upcoming projects and analysis.
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    27 mins
  • Stepping Up Without Paige, Georgetown Preview, and Women’s CBB Headlines

    Stepping Up Without Paige, Georgetown Preview, and Women’s CBB Headlines
    Jan 10 2025

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    On today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we discuss who needs to step up in Paige Bueckers’ absence, with Azzi Fudd, Sarah Strong, and Allie Ziebell already making a strong case for bigger roles. We explore whether this injury could be a blessing in disguise for UConn, as younger players gain valuable experience in the thick of Big East play. We also preview UConn’s upcoming matchup against Georgetown and analyze whether the Hoyas can make this game more competitive than their first meeting. Finally, we take a look around women’s college basketball: LSU remains undefeated, South Carolina faces a major setback with Ashlyn Watkins’ injury, and the national landscape is heating up as March approaches.

    Segment 1: Who Needs to Step Up Without Paige Bueckers?

    Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong have stepped up admirably in Paige Bueckers’ absence, with Fudd leading the offensive charge and Strong continuing her reliable two-way play. Allie Ziebell has been the breakout star, scoring 17 points off the bench in the win over Xavier, including five made three-pointers. Her poise and confidence raise the question of whether she’s ready to contribute consistently. Other players to watch include Jana El Alfy, who has adapted well to her new starting role, and Morgan Cheli, who could provide impactful minutes off the bench. With Aubrey Griffin set to return in about a week, the rotation will gain even more depth, and her defensive energy and veteran leadership will be crucial.

    Segment 2: Is This Injury a Blessing in Disguise?

    The timing of Paige Bueckers’ injury could actually be a positive for UConn in the long run. With the Huskies in the middle of Big East play, Geno Auriemma has an opportunity to give younger players extended minutes, allowing them to build confidence and gain experience. UConn’s upcoming matchup against Georgetown presents another chance for players to step up. In their first meeting, the Huskies dominated, but the Hoyas have made adjustments, with senior center Ariel Jenkins and guard Kelsey Ransom leading the way. Jenkins has been a force on the boards, and Ransom brings scoring versatility, making them key players to watch in this rematch. UConn must show they can maintain their dominance without Bueckers, and a strong performance will reinforce their position as title contenders.

    Segment 3: Around Women’s College Basketball

    LSU continues to impress with their perfect 18-0 record, punctuated by a road win over Tennessee. The Tigers are proving themselves as legitimate title contenders, but questions remain about their strength of schedule. Meanwhile, South Carolina suffered a devastating blow with the loss of Ashlyn Watkins to an ACL injury. Watkins was a key defensive anchor and a strong presence in the paint, and her absence will significantly impact the Gamecocks’ title hopes. The national landscape is also shifting as teams jockey for position ahead of March. UConn is currently projected as a No. 2 seed, USC is surging behind JuJu Watkins, and several teams outside the top five are making a case for deeper tournament runs. This is shaping up to be one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory, with every game adding more intrigue to the race for a national championship.

    “Thanks for listening to Locked On UConn. Don’t forget to follow us on X, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram at LockedOnUConn. Stay locked on and stay connected. Remember, it’s not just about getting it done—it’s about doing it in a way that it can’t be done any better. Go Huskies!”
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    27 mins
  • No Paige, No Problem

    No Paige, No Problem
    Jan 9 2025
    Follow the Show• X (formerly Twitter): @LockedOnUConn• Facebook: Locked On UConn• TikTok: @LockedOnUConn• Instagram: @LockedOnUConn Rocket MoneyRocket Money is a personal finance app that helps find and cancel your unwanted subscriptions, monitors your spending, and helps lower your bills so you can grow your savings. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster with Rocket Money. Visit RocketMoney.com/LockedOn. In today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we break down the Huskies’ dominant win over Xavier, where Azzi Fudd led the way and UConn showcased its depth in Paige Bueckers’ absence. We’ll also dive into Allie Ziebell’s breakout performance off the bench and her importance moving forward. Finally, we’ll take a look around the world of women’s college basketball, including South Carolina’s devastating injury news, USC’s rise behind JuJu Watkins, and UConn’s projected seeding in the NCAA Tournament. Segment 1: Azzi Fudd Leads UConn to a Blowout Over Xavier Let’s start with UConn’s dominant 81-27 win over Xavier. While Xavier isn’t a strong opponent, this game showed us a lot about the Huskies’ ability to adjust and thrive without Paige Bueckers. Azzi Fudd led the way with a season-high 23 points. What stood out was her aggressiveness—she wasn’t just relying on her three-point shot but attacked the basket and created opportunities for herself and her teammates. Fudd said after the game that she felt freer on the court, and it showed. She’s building trust in her knee, and that confidence is translating into her play. Sarah Strong also had a fantastic game with 15 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 steals. Her energy on both ends of the floor was key to UConn’s success. And then there’s freshman Allie Ziebell, who scored 17 points off the bench. We’ll talk more about her in the next segment, but her performance was a significant bright spot. This wasn’t about making a statement—it was about growth. UConn used this opportunity to build confidence and develop its depth, which will be crucial as the season progresses. Segment 2: Allie Ziebell’s Breakout Performance Allie Ziebell had her moment in UConn’s win over Xavier. The freshman came off the bench to score 17 points in just 18 minutes, hitting five three-pointers in the process. What made Ziebell’s performance stand out wasn’t just the numbers—it was how poised and confident she looked. She didn’t force shots or try to do too much. Instead, she found her spots and played within the flow of the game. That kind of maturity is rare for a freshman, especially in a program like UConn, where the expectations are sky-high. With Paige Bueckers out, the Huskies need players who can step into larger roles, and Ziebell showed she’s capable of doing just that. Her performance adds another layer to UConn’s depth, which is critical as they navigate the challenges of conference play and prepare for the NCAA Tournament. Even Paige was hyped for Ziebell. She cheered her on from the sidelines and shared a picture with her on social media after the game, showing the kind of support and unity this team has. This game was a confidence-builder for Ziebell, and if she can build on this performance, she’ll be a key contributor for UConn moving forward. Segment 3: Around the World of Women’s College Basketball Now, let’s zoom out and look at what’s happening across women’s college basketball because there’s been a lot of movement this week. First, UConn is projected as a No. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament, potentially in the same bracket as Notre Dame. That feels about right for now. UConn has been strong but hasn’t quite done enough to claim a No. 1 seed over teams like South Carolina, UCLA, and USC. A potential matchup with Notre Dame would be fascinating, though. Both teams are disciplined, well-coached, and equipped with talent that can thrive in March. Meanwhile, South Carolina got hit with devastating news this week. Ashlyn Watkins is out for the season with a torn ACL, and her absence is a huge blow to the Gamecocks’ national championship hopes. Watkins was a defensive anchor and a key rebounder, and without her, South Carolina’s margin for error just got a lot smaller. On the other hand, USC continues to trend upward. Led by JuJu Watkins, the Trojans handed No. 8 Maryland their first loss of the season. Watkins has been incredible, not just as a scorer but as a leader who makes everyone around her better. USC is quickly becoming a team no one wants to face in March. #uconnwbb #azzifudd #genoauriemma #uconnbasketball #uconnwomensbasketball #uconnwomen
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    24 mins
  • UConn Drops a Heartbreaker to Villanova, 68-66

    UConn Drops a Heartbreaker to Villanova, 68-66
    Jan 9 2025

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    In today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we break down the Huskies’ nail-biting loss to Villanova in Big East play. Despite stellar performances from key players and efficient shooting, the Huskies’ defensive struggles and costly turnovers ultimately led to their defeat. We’ll dive into Alex Karaban’s missed free throws in the final moments, Villanova’s sharp shooting from deep, and UConn’s ongoing challenges guarding the perimeter. Plus, this game reveals the team’s trajectory as they continue their Big East schedule.Show Notes:

    1. Opening Thoughts:

    • Recap of the game and the emotional rollercoaster in the final moments.

    • Villanova’s home-court advantage at Finneran Pavilion and how it impacted the game.

    2. Segment 1: Key Stats Breakdown:

    • UConn’s efficient shooting (54% FG) but struggles at the free-throw line (2-4).

    • Villanova’s dominance at the charity stripe (92.3%) and capitalizing on UConn’s 13 turnovers.

    • A look at Alex Karaban’s missed free throws and their impact on the game.

    3. Segment 2: Defensive Concerns:

    • UConn’s ongoing struggles defending the 3-point line, with Villanova shooting 40% from deep.

    • Transition defense and points off turnovers as key areas for improvement.

    • Villanova’s Eric Dixon as a tough matchup, scoring efficiently inside and out.

    4. Segment 3: Moving Forward:

    • The Huskies’ resilience and what they can learn from this game.

    • Highlighting standout performances, including Donovan Clingan’s rim protection and Solo Ball’s energy.

    • Upcoming matchups and adjustments needed to bounce back.

    5. Closing Thoughts:

    • UConn’s potential to improve as they address key weaknesses.

    • Encouragement for fans to stay positive and engaged as the season progresses.

    Stay connected for all things Huskies basketball on our social media platforms! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and tune in daily for more UConn analysis.
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    42 mins
  • How UConn Will Manage Without Paige Bueckers

    How UConn Will Manage Without Paige Bueckers
    Jan 8 2025
    On this episode of Locked On UConn, we break down the latest updates on Paige Bueckers, who is expected to miss just one week with a knee sprain. How does this affect the Huskies? Plus, Bella Tomaino joins the show to discuss the mood on campus and what this means for UConn moving forward. Connect with Locked On UConn on all social media platforms:• X (formerly Twitter): @LockedOnUConn• Instagram: @LockedOnUConn• TikTok: @LockedOnUConn• Facebook: Locked On UConn ROCKET MONEY:Did Rocket Money help you find any subscriptions you forgot about or that you were paying for twice? That definitely happened to me – I had a few subscriptions that I didn’t even realize I was still paying for, and Rocket Money made it so easy to track them all down. It’s like having a personal assistant for your finances! Rocket Money is a personal finance app that helps find and cancel your unwanted subscriptions, monitors your spending, and helps lower your bills so you can grow your savings. It brings everything together in one place – whether it’s subscriptions, your spending habits, or even the goals you want to hit this year. Rocket Money has over five million users and has saved a total of $500 million in canceled subscriptions, saving members up to $740 a year when using all of the app's premium features. For me, one of the best features is the subscription tracker. I’ve used it to cancel services I wasn’t using anymore and saved a ton! Plus, with their "Goals" feature, I’ve been able to automatically set aside money for my future – no more stressing about budgeting every month. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster with Rocket Money. Go to RocketMoney dot com slash lockedon today. That’s RocketMoney dot com slash lockedon. RocketMoney dot com slash lockedon.Download Rocket Money today and take control of your finances. Segment 1: Breaking News and Initial ImpactPaige Bueckers suffered a minor knee sprain during Sunday’s game, a moment that understandably sparked concern given her injury history. The good news? She’s expected to miss just one week, which is a sigh of relief for fans and the program alike. The injury occurred during a hustle play, underscoring Paige’s tenacity but also raising questions about her durability. Without Bueckers, UConn temporarily loses her leadership, playmaking, and scoring threat—all vital elements of their system. Her absence will undoubtedly disrupt the team’s offensive and defensive schemes, which are designed around her unique skill set. During her recovery, UConn faces matchups against Xavier, Georgetown, and St. John’s—winnable games but ones that will test the team’s ability to adapt without their star player. Segment 2: Positives and Negatives of Paige’s AbsenceWhile losing Paige Bueckers, even for a short period, is never ideal, there are both challenges and opportunities for UConn in her absence. On the negative side, the Huskies lose their most dynamic playmaker, placing additional pressure on players like Azzi Fudd and Morgan Cheli to step into larger roles. The team will need to adjust quickly to fill the void she leaves on both ends of the court. However, this situation also presents a silver lining. Younger players have the chance to step up and gain valuable game-time experience. It’s an opportunity for the coaching staff to experiment with new lineups and strategies, potentially discovering combinations that can add depth and versatility to their play. These adjustments could prove crucial as the season progresses, especially in high-stakes matchups later in the year. Segment 3: Why This is a “Good Time” for the InjuryIf there’s ever a “good time” for an injury, this might be it. Happening early in the season, Paige’s absence allows for a measured recovery period, ensuring she doesn’t feel pressured to return prematurely. Missing games against Xavier, Georgetown, and St. John’s—teams UConn should handle without her—minimizes the impact on their season record. This stretch also provides an invaluable opportunity for player development. Younger guards and reserves will gain real-game experience, which could strengthen the team’s overall cohesion and readiness for future challenges. With Paige sidelined, the team can rally, adapt, and build resilience, laying a stronger foundation for their postseason aspirations. Looking ahead, the focus remains on Paige’s full recovery and eventual return for marquee matchups and the critical stretch of the season. This adversity could ultimately unify the team, sharpening their ability to compete at the highest level when it matters most.Closing Thoughts Don’t forget to follow Locked On UConn on all social media platforms for updates, analysis, and more! #uconnwbb #azzifudd #genoauriemma #uconnwomensbasketball
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    34 mins
  • UConn heads to Nova for a key Big East Matchup

    UConn heads to Nova for a key Big East Matchup
    Jan 8 2025

    The UConn men’s basketball team is riding an impressive 8-game winning streak as they head to Pennsylvania to face Villanova in a crucial Big East showdown. In this episode, we’ll break down what’s fueling the Huskies’ momentum, why this matchup is being played at Villanova’s smaller Finneran Pavilion, and address UConn’s lingering defensive concerns. Can the Huskies extend their streak to nine games? Let’s dive in!

    Show Notes

    Segment 1: UConn’s Winning Streak – What’s Clicking?

    • A look at UConn’s 8-game winning streak, including key victories against Baylor, Texas, Gonzaga, and Providence.

    • Highlight standout performances by Alex Karaban, Jacob McNeeley, and Hassan Diarra.

    • Discuss how improved offensive efficiency and depth have been key to their success.

    • Challenges faced during the streak and how UConn has overcome them.

    Segment 2: Why UConn is Playing at Finneran Pavilion

    • Explore why this matchup isn’t at the larger Wells Fargo Center in downtown Philadelphia.

    • Discuss logistical factors, including the mid-week scheduling, NBA conflicts, and financial considerations for Villanova.

    • Highlight how Finneran Pavilion’s intimate setting provides a strong home-court advantage for Villanova and what it means for UConn.

    Segment 3: Defensive Struggles and Key Starters Against Villanova

    • Break down UConn’s defensive issues, particularly guarding the 3-point line, as they prepare to face Eric Dixon and Villanova’s sharpshooters.

    • Analyze potential starting lineups and adjustments, including how Donovan Clingan’s rim protection matches up against Dixon’s perimeter play.

    • Highlight key players like Hassan Diarra and Tristen Newton stepping up defensively.

    • Predictions for defensive schemes and adjustments UConn might employ to secure the win.

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    Outro

    As UConn heads to Villanova for what promises to be a tough matchup, all eyes will be on how the Huskies handle this high-pressure environment. With their winning streak and Big East momentum on the line, this game is shaping up to be a must-watch. Stay tuned for postgame analysis, and don’t forget to subscribe to Locked On UConn for all your Huskies updates. Go Huskies!
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    32 mins
  • Waiting on Paige: Injury Updates, UConn’s Next Steps

    Waiting on Paige: Injury Updates, UConn’s Next Steps
    Jan 7 2025

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    On today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we discuss the latest updates on Paige Bueckers’ injury, including what we know so far and why there’s reason for cautious optimism. Next, we look at UConn’s game plan moving forward with or without Paige, highlighting key players who are ready to step up in her absence. Finally, we dive into the top 10 power rankings in women’s college basketball.

    Show Notes:

    Segment 1: Paige Bueckers Injury – What We Know So Far

    • Recap of Paige’s injury during the Villanova game.

    • Optimistic comments from Geno Auriemma and Chris Dailey postgame.

    • Insights into Paige’s activity and demeanor since the game, including an NIL event at MSG.

    • The importance of cautious optimism given her injury history.

    Segment 2: Looking Ahead Without Paige – UConn’s Next Steps

    • Analysis of UConn’s depth and lineup adjustments if Paige misses time.

    • Key players to watch: KK Arnold, Ashlynn Shade, and Sarah Strong.

    • The impact of Aubrey Griffin’s expected mid-January return.

    • How this stretch of games presents opportunities for team growth before tougher February matchups.

    Segment 3: UConn in the Top 5 and My Power Top 10

    • Breakdown of the top 5 women’s college basketball teams, with UConn at #5 over Texas.

    • Comparison of UConn’s performance and strength of schedule to Texas.

    • The rest of the top 10 rankings, highlighting standout teams and players.

    #uconnwbb #uconnbasketball #uconnnation
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    23 mins
  • Paige Bueckers Injury and UConn’s Next Steps

    Paige Bueckers Injury and UConn’s Next Steps
    Jan 6 2025

    In today’s episode, we break down UConn’s dominant 83-52 victory over Villanova and the concerning moment when Paige Bueckers went down with a left knee injury. We discuss Geno Auriemma’s optimism, the incredible performance from freshman Sarah Strong, and what this win means for the Huskies moving forward. Finally, we discuss why Paige should take as much time as she needs to heal, especially with a manageable schedule in January. The Huskies’ success is about more than this month—it’s about March and beyond.

    Show Notes:

    Segment 1: Paige Bueckers Injury – Holding Our Breath

    • Recap of Paige’s injury late in the third quarter and the emotional impact on the game.

    • Details on her return to the bench, Geno Auriemma’s postgame comments, and comparisons to Azzi Fudd’s recent knee sprain.

    • Highlights of Paige’s milestone 100th career game and her standout performance before the injury.

    Segment 2: UConn’s Dominance and Sarah Strong’s Star Turn

    • UConn’s complete team performance against Villanova: 30 assists on 35 made field goals and shooting 59.3%.

    • Sarah Strong’s standout night: 21 points, 9-of-12 shooting, and incredible poise for a freshman.

    • Contributions from KK Arnold (15 points) Azzi Fudd, and Geno’s strategic use of a five-guard lineup.

    • Discussion on UConn’s potential if they can consistently replicate this level of play.

    Segment 3: Why Paige Needs Time to Heal

    • Argument for Paige to take a full month off to fully recover, preserving her health and career.

    • Breakdown of UConn’s manageable January schedule, with winnable games even without Paige:

    • vs. Xavier (Jan. 8)

    • @ Georgetown (Jan. 11)

    • @ St. John’s (Jan. 15)

    • vs. Seton Hall (Jan. 19)

    • vs. Villanova (Jan. 22)

    • @ Creighton (Jan. 25)

    • @ DePaul (Jan. 29)

    • Emphasis on the big picture: prioritizing a healthy Paige for the NCAA Tournament and long-term success.

    Call-to-Action:

    • Encourage listeners to subscribe, follow, and leave a review.

    • Tease the next episode focusing on UConn’s upcoming matchup against Xavier and deeper insights into the Huskies’ season.

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    21 mins