Washington, D.C. – Coming off an 11-game winning streak, UConn faced off against Georgetown, and the top-ranked Huskies emerged victorious with a convincing score of 89-64. Alex Karaban led the charge for UConn, scoring 25 points and showcasing impressive skills on both ends of the court.
The Huskies dominated from the start, building substantial leads with runs of 9-0 and 11-0 within the first 10 minutes of play. At halftime, UConn held a commanding 52-28 lead, shooting an impressive 63% from the field, including 75% on 2-pointers. Georgetown struggled to keep up, shooting only 35% from the field in the first half. UConn’s offensive prowess extended to the paint, where they outscored Georgetown 48-24. Georgetown’s leading scorer Jayden Epps was limited to just four points—well below his average. Dontrez Styles led the Hoyas with 23 points and six boards. UConn’s Donovan Clingan showcased his versatility on the court though he finished with only four points, he did add five rebounds and six assists. Stephon Castle finished with 17 points and three rebounds.
UConn’s Karaban was impactful from opening tap. He made 10 out of 14 field-goal attempts, finishing with a 71% shooting percentage. 17 of his points came in the first half. He also connected on four out of seven three-point attempts. His game is silky smooth and based on high IQ. He picks his spots and plays a patient game. I was impressed with his versatility, he put his back to the basket and put the ball on the floor. He is also not afraid to go in the paint and take contact, he is very poised. Castle showed his athleticism and shot very well from the floor, making eight of 11 shots. Castle possesses the coveted size that NBA teams seek, he fits the mold of a jumbo guard or a wing with guard skills. He can play as an off-ball guard, wing, and even slot in at the four. Castle has good body control and has good coordination that allows him to change direction. He excels in mid-range shots, converting tough off-balance attempts. His perimeter game is impressive, with a smooth handle creating space for jumpers. Although not an elite three-point shooter he did make one of two attempts.
UConn’s Clingan had an interesting game. He had a poor shooting performance, but he didn’t have to do much. The game was out of hand very early on. He does run up and down the floor well after his injury. He sets a lot of picks and screens and is a solid roll man. He did a great job on the defensive side of the ball, protecting the rim with four blocks. Clingan stands out with his immense size, but I think his conditioning and productivity will bode well for him in the next level.
Georgetown’s Dontrez Styles scored 23 points. He was very assertive and efficient from the floor, shooting 50% field goal percentage. He also chipped in three shots from beyond the arc, one thing I noticed he’s improved is his shooting form. Earlier in the season, he would shoot from the perimeter, but he didn’t have enough lift on his jumper. Now he is jumping high enough to give his perimeter shots a better chance to connect.
The Hoyas are now 8-15 on the season, while UConn is on a 12 game winning streak now, going 22-2 on the season, continuing a dominant year.
This article was written by Kenneth Moore, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Facebook, or on twitter.
We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.
