“Inject this into my veins”: UConn fans elated as ex-Huskies Stephon Castle and Andre Jackson Jr set to headline 2025 NBA dunk contest

The anticipation for the 2025 NBA Slam Dunk Contest has reached a fever pitch among UConn Huskies fans, as two of their distinguished alumni, Stephon Castle and Andre Jackson Jr., have committed to participate in the event. This development stirred up excitement from the UConn community, with fans expressing their excitement on X.

Stephon Castle will showcase his dunking prowess during the All-Star Weekend. Castle has continued to impress with his athleticism and scoring ability, making him a compelling addition to the dunk contest lineup. Andre Jackson Jr., currently a forward for the Milwaukee Bucks, has emerged as a starter in his second NBA season. Fans are eager to see the talents on display.

"Inject this into my veins," a fan said

“I look forward to seeing Andre Jackson Jr. Kid got bounce, I like it,” another fan said.

A few other fans also celebrated the stacked lineup for the NBA Dunk contest

“I’ll definitely be watching now,” a fan said.

“UConn REPRESENTING!!!” another fan said.

“Now I’ll watch!” a fan said.

As the All-Star Weekend approaches, UConn fans eagerly await the opportunity to witness their former players take center stage in a show of athleticism and creativity.

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Dan Hurley’s calls out referee in UConn’s overtime win

UConn Huskies coach Dan Hurley is no stranger to passionate sideline antics, and Tuesday night was no exception. As the Huskies secured an 80-78 overtime victory against Butler at the XL Center in Hartford, Hurley delivered a fiery remark that quickly went viral on social media.

Late in the first half, with UConn holding a 10-point lead, Hurley approached a referee, frustrated that no foul had been called during a defensive rebound attempt. As he pleaded his case, the referee turned his back on the animated coach. Hurley’s response, caught on the broadcast, was nothing short of memorable:

"Don't turn your back on me, I'm the best coach in the f---ing sport," Hurley said.

In his postgame press conference, Hurley didn’t deny making such comments. Instead, he addressed it and explained his perspective.

“Did I say that?” Hurley asked. “Oh, yeah. I’m gonna sound like an a--hole here, I want some level of communication too.”

Hurley also commented on how his behavior often draws more attention than that of other coaches. He argued that while his intensity is not unique, the camera’s constant focus on him amplifies his actions.

"I just wish they put the camera on the other coach more," Hurley said. “I see other coaches being just as demonstrative in Big East games, but the camera is on me 90% of the time."

"I’ve created this for myself. I’m not the victim. But unless it’s driving ratings, it feels like Twitter just gets more clips to call me a monster for yelling at refs.”

Despite the sideline drama, UConn showcased their resilience after a recent home loss to Creighton snapped their 28-game home winning streak. The Huskies bounced back, led by Solo Ball’s career-high 23 points, to notch their 15th straight win at the XL Center.