UConn star Liam McNeeley admits feeling starstruck at Madison Square Garden: "I still feel like a freshman"

Liam McNeeley played his first game at Madison Square Garden on Saturday as the UConn Huskies defeated the Gonzaga Bulldogs 77-71. The freshman led the way with a career-best 26 points with eight rebounds.

Postgame, McNeeley shared his thoughts on the experience of playing at MSG. He said (per UCTV Sports):

"I still feel like a freshman."

Speaking to FOX Sports’ John Fanta, McNeeley reflected on playing in the historic arena.

“I was just really excited to play in the Mecca of all of basketball,” McNeeley said (per FOX Sports). “I know the team’s record of 7-0 in this building last season, so I just wanted to keep that up and keep the undefeated record going.”

"I had never played in the Mecca before, but it was a great, great first experience."

UConn coach Dan Hurley praised McNeeley’s performance, highlighting how it eased the pressure on Alex Karaban, who struggled on the night and finished with eight points.

"His performance tonight should shoot him to the top of any of these lists I see of the best freshmen in the country, because he's doing it at both ends," Hurley said. "He's doing it on the backboard. He's not (relying on) volume scoring. And there's so much pressure on him because he's our second-best player next to Alex."

Liam McNeeley explains his decision to join UConn Huskies

Liam McNeeley originally committed to the Indiana Hoosiers but reconsidered after coach Mike Woodson was retained despite the team’s disappointing performance last season. Though there was speculation he might join Cooper Flagg at Duke, McNeeley ultimately chose UConn.

After Saturday's performance, McNeeley spoke about his decision to join the Huskies, who are aiming for a third straight national title.

“The dynamic of the whole program (makes UConn special)," he said. "Everybody’s good. You gotta know how to play with good players. It’s not just all iso ball. It’s a real team and a real coach. That’s why I chose to come here.”

The UConn Huskies will next face Xavier on Wednesday as they look to extend their four-game winning streak.

READ: “I really haven't done anything”: Liam McNeeley gets abrupt realization about UConn’s back-to-back national titles