Alex Karaban's relationship with Dan Hurley: UConn star explains "struggles" and "great moments" of working closely with HC

In an era dominated by the transfer portal and players chasing the NBA, Dan Hurley and Alex Karaban have chosen loyalty and consistency. This commitment has turned the UConn Huskies into a college basketball powerhouse.

Before Karaban’s arrival, Hurley’s Huskies went 73-32 over four seasons without an NCAA Tournament win. In the last three seasons, UConn has boasted of a 77-14 record, including two national championships.

Their sights are now set on joining John Wooden’s UCLA teams as the only programs to win three consecutive men’s NCAA Division I titles.

Karaban leads the Huskies in points (16.5) and blocks (1.8) per game and he credits Hurley with shaping him as both a player and a person.

“He’s been the most impactful person in my life,” Karaban said, as per AP. “He’s challenged me on and off the court, helping me develop habits like reading and meditating. Anytime I have a problem, I know I can turn to him.”

Their relationship isn’t without challenges. Hurley’s demanding coaching style has pushed Karaban, but the forward has embraced it.

“After bad games, he’d be on me,” Karaban admitted. “But that’s how the best relationships are formed, through struggles and great moments.”

Their bond is rooted in shared simplicity: both are deeply committed to basketball and family, with little interest beyond those priorities. This shared mindset has made them nearly inseparable in their pursuit of excellence.

This season hasn’t been without obstacles. After a three-game losing streak in Maui, Hurley and Karaban rallied the team to a seven-game winning streak with victories over powerhouses like Baylor, Texas and Gonzaga. Their determination to make history has kept them grounded.

Last spring, both Hurley and Karaban had opportunities to leave. The Los Angeles Lakers pursued Hurley, while Karaban considered turning pro. Yet, they chose to stay at UConn for the chance to achieve something historic.

“That’s the main reason I came back, to become the winningest player in college basketball history,” Karaban said. “It’s also about helping the new guys experience what it feels like to win and adding to this program’s legacy.”

Karaban’s influence extends beyond his play. Respected throughout the Big East for his leadership, he has transformed teammates and coaches alike.

“Alex has made everyone around him better,” Hurley said. “He’s an excellent player, defender, communicator and a winner. Our program changed the moment he joined the lineup.”

As UConn’s journey continues, the Hurley-Karaban partnership remains at its core, driving the Huskies toward even greater heights.

Dan Hurley calls for a stronger UConn defense to win championships

The No. 11-ranked UConn Huskies are riding a six-game winning streak after a rocky start to the season in Maui. However, coach Dan Hurley isn’t content just yet.

While UConn’s offense has been electric, averaging 83.9 points per game (ranked 35th nationally), the defense remains a concern, allowing 67.5 points per game (92nd in Division I).

Hurley emphasized the need for defensive improvement as he expressed his thoughts to the media at the Jordan Holiday Classic in Manhattan.

“We got our confidence back. We’ve got the No. 2 offense in the country,” Hurley said.

“But our defense has not been where it needs to be. If we don’t start defending at a much higher level, we’re not gonna be in contention for championships.”

The two-time defending national champions struggled early in the season, including a 0-3 showing at the Maui Invitational. However, the Huskies have bounced back with impressive victories over No. 15 Baylor, Texas, No. 8 Gonzaga and conference rivals Xavier and Butler.

Despite the recent success, UConn’s defensive struggles remain a focal point. The Huskies have allowed over 70 points in four of their last five games, including 89 to Xavier and 74 to Butler.

The Huskies will look to tighten up their defense as they prepare for a New Year’s Day matchup at DePaul, followed by a home game against Providence on Jan. 5, and a road game at Villanova on Jan. 8.

While this year’s Huskies may not have the same dominance as last season’s squad, which breezed through the NCAA Tournament, expectations remain high.

Hurley’s goals include competing for the Big East regular-season and tournament titles and making history with an NCAA Tournament three-peat.

As UConn continues its quest for a third consecutive title, the balance between their high-powered offense and improving defense will determine whether they can cement their place in college basketball history.