UConn holds a 10-0 all-time record against the Butler Bulldogs with their first matchup being in the 2011 national championship game. The two teams played a close one in their first matchup at Hinkle Fieldhouse with the Huskies coming out on top 78-74.
Butler (8-10, 1-6) and UConn (13-5, 5-2)
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This season has certainly been rough for the Bulldogs who currently sit in a tie for ninth in the Big East. Butler ended a 9-game losing streak with a win over Seton Hall in their last game. That win was a true team effort as the Bulldogs outrebounded the Pirates 31-24 and had 17 assists too.
When they played the Huskies earlier this season, their dynamic guard duo in Jahmyl Telfort and Pierre Brooks II were held in check combining for just 20 points (averaging a combined 30ppg this season). It was role players Andre Screen and Patrick McCaffery who kept the game close with Screen having a monster game of 17 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 blocks. If the guards can’t get it done early then expect Butler to challenge the Huskies through their frontcourt.
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— UConn Men’s Basketball (@UConnMBB) January 20, 2025
The Huskies enter this contest after their 28-game home winning streak was ended in a loss to Creighton at Gampel. This game will have a change of scenery for UConn as the XL Center is hosting the matchup. It’s important to note that not only will the Huskies be without Liam McNeeley, but they may be without Alex Karaban too who is a game-time decision following an ankle injury at the end of the Creighton game.
UConn is looking to bounce back strong following the tough loss. That may be more difficult than they hoped for if both McNeeley and Karaban cannot play; the duo combined for 38 points in the first matchup with Butler. Guards Hassan Diarra and Solo Ball will have to shoulder the offensive load in this one, but if there isn’t a standout performance from Jaylin Stewart, Jayden Ross, or Aidan Mahaney then the Huskies could be in for a tough game.
